My incorrect POV

October is Menopause Awareness Month, and following World Menopause Day on 18th October, we’re continuing the conversation around menopause and perimenopause and the impact they can have on everyday life.

Open conversations and shared experiences can help build greater understanding, challenge misconceptions and, importantly, remind people that they’re not alone.  Here, our Guernsey Healthcare Manager, Jennifer Naftel, shares her own personal experience of perimenopause with trademark honesty and humour, from initially dismissing the signs to recognising what was happening and finding the support that worked for her.

I’m really pleased that menopause and perimenopause are becoming less of a taboo. In my role working in corporate healthcare and supporting clients with employee wellbeing, it’s a topic people increasingly want to talk about. And now, unexpectedly, I can relate through my own personal experience too.

I had no idea that women could begin experiencing symptoms in their 30s. Mine crept up so gradually that for a long time, I simply put everything down to being a busy mum juggling work and family life.

Shaky hands? “Ah, I’m just busy.”

Racing heart? “That’ll be the coffee.”

Aching joints? “I sit at a desk all day, surely that’s normal?”

And insomnia? That was my major bugbear. For two years, I somehow got by on around three patchy hours of sleep a night and convinced myself I was just someone who couldn’t switch off.

Then came my reality check. One day, it felt as though a high-speed bullet train was zooming through my head. I finally realised there might be more going on.

I’ve always tried to live holistically, and initially HRT was an absolute “No way, José!” for me. But I researched, listened to healthcare podcasts, read articles and explored different viewpoints. Eventually, I changed my mind and decided to try it.

For me, it made a real difference. I slept properly, the aches and pains eased, my mind felt sharper, and I felt brighter and more energised.  There she is… she’s back!

That’s my experience, not a one-size-fits-all answer. Everyone’s menopause journey is different, and what works for one person won’t necessarily work for another.  But I do wish I’d recognised what was happening sooner.

If sharing my story helps someone else recognise their symptoms, seek support or simply realise they’re not alone, then it’s absolutely worth talking about.

Jen Naftel, Guernsey Healthcare Manager