---
title: "Women’s Voices: The Lived Experience of the Path To Menopause"
date: 2024-06-01T23:55:00-04:00
author: Missy Moyer
canonical_url: "https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/womens-voices-the-lived-experience-of-the-path-to-menopause"
section: "Stories & Conversations"
---
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[Stories & Conversations](/stories-conversations)# Women’s Voices: The Lived Experience of the Path To Menopause

Most women assume that menopause-related changes will happen at age 50 or later. But for many, the changes begin long before that, while periods are still coming monthly. In this chapter from the book “Each Woman’s Menopause,” Nina Coslov shares the confusion and surprise she felt when she experienced early symptoms and shares the experiences of others in perimenopause.

> “When I saw my health care provider, I hadn’t known that while regular, my cycles were shortening. I had had a 33–35-day cycles for many years but I had stopped tracking my cycles as I wasn’t trying to get pregnant and pregnancy prevention was no longer a concern as my partner had had a vasectomy. Had I known then what I’ve come to learn, I would have been able to link my sleep and mood changes to fluctuating hormones.”

[Read the full article ](https://womenlivingbetter.org/womens-voices-the-lived-experience-of-the-path-to-menopause/)

SOURCE: Women Living Better • AUTHOR: Nina Coslov • LAST UPDATED: January 1, 2022

![Nina coslov](data:image/png;base64,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) 

![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)Topics

- [ menopause & perimenopause](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/subject-area/menopause-perimenopause)
- [ diverse lived experiences of perimenopause & menopause](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/themes/diverse-lived-experiences-menopause-perimenopause)
- [ signs & symptoms of perimenopause & menopause](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/themes/signs-symptoms-perimenopause-menopause)
- [perimenopause](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/perimenopause)

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##### More to Explore

[Stories & ConversationsRead

## Sharing What I Learned about Perimenopause

Nina shares how her experience with perimenopause led her to co-found Women Living Better, a resource that demystifies the menopause transition.

![Nina_Coslov](data:image/png;base64,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)

Nina shares how her experience with perimenopause led her to co-found Women Living Better, a resource that demystifies the menopause transition.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-the-very-early-perimenopause)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Coping with Perimenopause

JF discusses her perimenopause symptoms. She explains her difficulty with the healthcare system and finding a perimenopause specialist.

![My Story- Coping with Perimenopause](data:image/png;base64,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)

JF discusses her perimenopause symptoms. She explains her difficulty with the healthcare system and finding a perimenopause specialist.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-coping-with-perimenopause)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Finding a Perimenopause Specialist

JF recalls the research she did to find a perimenopause specialist in her area who would accept her insurance.

![My Story- Finding a Perimenopause Specialist](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAgCAIAAAD8GO2jAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAE1UlEQVRIiU1WQbbjsA0DSGXuf4AeoNve7lsigC7k/BlFL04smxBIEST/95//Akgc2JEjZxQ548iwkQAhwQIbbFaDTRbYJEGCAAAEcGDAub+TAhDkLv4O/vOP+HcESJLv49/vfJf+uXsv6z4dBPlO5Nrl1zoBJPlrNHFQ90UTxL9LuBZeIysxAMCI7wITJkSIFGKkAINIAgN86V/LJEC+ewkQ8AUgAuQCXOLOF+aafiknBgowAMTxfRVEGIDgC0AADBnARMIQWLbwl5QZAwbMa/xL1gnBX38aCSoskMGNNMmQ4IsB8jLw/LqP1zTMCwbn+uoNLQEmMeyUUcZr8pIoogpFFC8VBFjyEHhdxhAmDJpIrtOT+zOBTQQJdScqeAGqUMUmUkCxiBAklnUAkKgL8GK8bJIwvgHyvWHYUHhCBQbDIlnFLqbZRRZYTL0AA4IIiGbAy+OdgW/8ndCGEkHOCMeY8HqJxapaTbjQrK4KEYRc8iFuZBAChe/1C+DELhtyZE80HuUYxxBosljdlVXo4upKVZNhk8vaAOpGqd684gtzt+HElCFh7COPZ3ImjzNgQHat7qj56Yo75XQVU1zSIXCjdJMERfoKTHA9Y8OClBmPZusc7cmjnMCs6vqshlZldZbQjaTL4bLOTUaDBnMFol6FSIx3+xPJc7xHe2ZrHz2T/QK0P4t/1PCCF5YRp1i17EMQBaPeEF+YK0MJ5FiRMsdzdM7sc57ZW8/xE4jV3dGn8lnIBxEgoNJsL3u+zrgAXxgySJzY0VjjGZ+js+fZ5+fsZ36Ofwyx1mfFauRDDDGFRTTi1LJFgEXHdr0acFMuQWLJkmc8o3O0z+x9nmf/nGf7xxF7zYfxh/hTmKKKIoXwBSBoGmXg6ozx6mNsS5rRzMzRnDl79nOeZ//s59GPouolFfOnOF13qiiAedUUAa8iOCWHIQgGsTVf+zNzzpx99j7Pc36e/TOPoF5OPsWzej4905qeYhNIreB+YNsowUWKDEAnlv6xfs6cc2ZfjH1+zhGmDXLW0pk5o8/MtIpDoHshAN865MSGmICF0LGk0blbP3POOXvOmdnn7D17RtCCVl+aX3dqqopEsnCdwxdAAYhKKo4T6Tpmz+wz+8zlcGZmpJFF3/Nhy/dASNKoqphkgd+OIG/NgmEENuS7/z3znHleDJ3RjKXc3uFNmTeElj3SqEims4D6FtP4LSxBDNuSRzOzzzx3jvboyHIcgFVd6Oqqu88kryTKpIIssL45+1tWEieypTmaoy+AnqMtH2fCsNFoFtbq7qoC6MC5TZUgOFlk4z1IBuAwhhXrJu+VBj1HPy+DXJVOd5F9da67ulkEaGTiMkMaWWQF374ndnB7vNGbuefL4Gf8jLczhtgpVJHd9Vlrra4iK8QlMbdChQssXgKv9lPGOKOcudKp65xn9ChbOaBJNKsKvXp1r8vgNhlQbnPgIn8ZOKFBBwrG2fKdz/gZPXf78jYU+lbhaq7uG4MuFi+Ak0nKILOAIm+TmoAGFYwxxnG2/EjP+JEf+TgnEBgWqtl/R1XXt03y63IQWCQTgr6lJnmdqGScoxxlO1s+yjFuJ4Fb5quq+r2SKPJtIG6jBgALr6oRv00l4ED3RP+ea2cSJQICkqxvO/d3fK2/8oMw+D9yt/Ns5WA8FQAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==)

JF recalls the research she did to find a perimenopause specialist in her area who would accept her insurance.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-finding-a-perimenopause-specialist)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Recognizing My Symptoms of Perimenopause on My Own

JF shares the difficulties of living with perimenopause, a condition for which there is little research and no consensus on symptoms.

![My Story- Recognizing My Symptoms of Perimenopause on My Own](data:image/png;base64,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)

JF shares the difficulties of living with perimenopause, a condition for which there is little research and no consensus on symptoms.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-recognizing-my-symptoms-of-perimenopause-on-my-own)

[ResourcesRead

## CeMCOR: The Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research

A broad collection of information about menstrual health. Topic areas include fertility, heavy flow, hot flashes, cramps and painful periods, contraception, and more.

![CeMCOR-The Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research](data:image/png;base64,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)

A broad collection of information about menstrual health. Topic areas include fertility, heavy flow, hot flashes, cramps and painful periods, contraception, and more.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/cemcor-the-centre-for-menstrual-cycle-and-ovulation-research)

[ResourcesRead

## Common Signs and Symptoms of Perimenopause

This evidence-based, feminist resource aims to demystify perimenopause and normalize the symptoms that often start before periods become irregular.

![An image of an older white woman in a blue shirt lying on a bed with her hands on her head. On her night stand is a white fan facing her.](data:image/png;base64,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)

This evidence-based, feminist resource aims to demystify perimenopause and normalize the symptoms that often start before periods become irregular.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/common-perimenopause-symptoms)

[ResourcesWatch

## Conversation with Dr. Jen Gunter: The Menopause Manifesto

An interview with Dr. Jen Gunter on rethinking menopause and her book, The Menopause Manifesto: Own Your Health with Facts and Feminism.

![Jen Gunter](data:image/png;base64,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)

An interview with Dr. Jen Gunter on rethinking menopause and her book, The Menopause Manifesto: Own Your Health with Facts and Feminism.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/conversation-with-dr-jen-gunter-the-menopause-manifesto)

[Stories & ConversationsRead

## Perimenopause: The Ugly, The Bad, and The Good!

Our Bodies Ourselves content expert Ann Marie Meyer offers encouragement in facing the many sides of perimenopause and its symptoms.

![Headshot of Ann Marie Meyer](data:image/png;base64,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)

Our Bodies Ourselves content expert Ann Marie Meyer offers encouragement in facing the many sides of perimenopause and its symptoms.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-perimenopause-the-ugly-the-bad-and-the-good)