Perimenopause vs Thyroid: Symptoms, Differences, and Solutions
Feeling off but can’t quite put your finger on it? When you’re in your late 30s to 50s, a host of symptoms can crop up that leave you wondering, what is going on with my body? It could be perimenopause or your thyroid—but how do you tell the difference? Let’s break it down.
Understanding Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the transition phase leading up to menopause, where hormone levels—particularly estrogen and progesterone—begin to fluctuate. This phase can last for several years, usually starting in your late 30s or 40s.
Common Symptoms of Perimenopause:
Irregular periods (shorter, longer, or missed cycles)
Hot flushes and night sweats
Mood changes (irritability, anxiety, or depression)
Sleep disturbances
Decreased libido
Vaginal dryness
Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
Brain fog
These symptoms occur because your ovaries are producing fewer hormones, leading to an imbalance that affects multiple systems in your body.
Understanding Thyroid Dysfunction
Your thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck, plays a pivotal role in regulating metabolism, energy, and overall health. Thyroid dysfunction—especially hypothyroidism—is common among women in their 30s to 50s and can share many symptoms with perimenopause.
Common Symptoms of Thyroid Issues:
Fatigue (even after a good night’s sleep)
Weight changes (unexplained gain or loss)
Cold intolerance
Hair thinning or hair loss
Dry skin
Constipation
Depression or anxiety
Brain fog
Irregular periods or heavy menstrual flow
Spot the Overlap
Some symptoms of perimenopause and thyroid dysfunction are strikingly similar, such as:
Fatigue
Mood changes
Brain fog
Irregular periods
Weight changes
This overlap can make it tricky to determine what’s really going on. However, key differences can help point you in the right direction.
How to Tell the Difference
Key Indicators of Perimenopause:
Symptoms often fluctuate with your menstrual cycle.
Hot flushes and night sweats are classic hallmarks.
Periods may become irregular but don’t disappear entirely (yet).
Key Indicators of Thyroid Dysfunction:
Persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve, even with rest.
Noticeable changes in hair texture or hair loss.
Sensitivity to temperature (feeling unusually cold or hot).
Symptoms may persist regardless of your menstrual cycle.
Testing and Diagnosis
If you’re unsure, testing is the best way to identify the root cause. Here’s what to consider:
For Perimenopause:
Hormone Testing: FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), estrogen, and progesterone levels can provide insights.
Symptom Tracking: Logging symptoms alongside your cycle can help identify hormonal patterns.
For Thyroid Dysfunction:
TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): The primary marker for thyroid health.
Free T3 and Free T4: Measure active thyroid hormones.
Thyroid Antibodies: Check for autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s.
Reverse T3: May be helpful in some cases.
Pro tip: Always get a copy of your test results and consult a practitioner who understands functional lab ranges.
Can It Be Both?
Yes, you can experience both perimenopause and thyroid dysfunction simultaneously. Hormonal shifts during perimenopause can even trigger thyroid imbalances or exacerbate pre-existing issues. This makes it even more crucial to identify and address both.
What You Can Do
Work With a Practitioner: Seek a healthcare provider who will consider the full picture, including your symptoms, pathology results, and lifestyle.
Support Hormonal Balance:
Prioritise sleep and stress management.
Include healthy fats and protein in your diet.
Consider herbal supports like adaptogens or phytoestrogens (under professional guidance).
Support Thyroid Health:
Ensure adequate iodine (where appropriate), selenium, and zinc intake.
Reduce inflammatory foods and prioritise gut health.
Manage stress, as it can significantly impact thyroid function.
Track Your Symptoms: Use a journal or app to note patterns and changes in your symptoms.
When to Seek Help
If your symptoms are affecting your daily life, it’s time to get professional support. Whether it’s perimenopause, your thyroid, or both, a tailored plan can make all the difference.
Navigating your 30s, 40s, and 50s can feel like a hormonal rollercoaster, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you suspect perimenopause, thyroid dysfunction, or both, take the first step by seeking answers. A little clarity can go a long way toward helping you feel like yourself again.
Ready to get started? Book a consultation today and let’s uncover what’s really behind your symptoms.