Are you noticing new mood swings, brain fog, or night sweats in your 40s? These could be the early signs of perimenopause, not just stress or aging. In this episode, Nicole van Hattem explains the first menopause symptoms, midlife hormone changes, and what to do next so you can navigate perimenopause with clarity and confidence.

You'll learn:

• What perimenopause really is - the 4-10 year transition leading up to menopause

• How fluctuating oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone create unpredictable shifts

• The earliest physical symptoms of menopause: irregular periods, night sweats, sleep problems, weight gain, and fatigue

• The emotional and cognitive signs: mood swings, anxiety, brain fog, and dips in confidence

• Why perimenopause isn't just getting older - it's a normal stage of midlife hormone changes

• Simple next steps: track your symptoms, name what's happening, and find menopause-literate support

Whether you're 38, 45, or 50 plus, recognising the first menopause symptoms early can help you take back control, protect your wellbeing, and step into this chapter with clarity.

Download your free Menopause Symptom Tracker and explore Nicole's midlife retreat recommendations at nicolevanhattem.com

Next up: Episode 170 — The Menopause Symptom Spectrum: From Hot Flushes to Heart Palpitations.