The UncompliKated Perimenopause Podcast

Episode 6 Season 3: Periods, Confidence, And Perimenopause

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/fan_mail/new] Periods aren’t supposed to be a cliffhanger, yet perimenopause can make every cycle a plot twist. We open up about why your bleed might get heavier, lighter, closer together, or vanish and then crash back in—and how the real culprits are shifting oestrogen and a drop in progesterone. If your mood swings feel louder, cramps hit harder, or leaks have you second-guessing your outfit, there’s a science-backed reason and practical ways to get back your confidence. We break down the grower-and-mower dynamic: oestrogen thickens the uterine lining while progesterone steadies nerves and helps shed it. When oestrogen spikes and progesterone lags, you can see PMS, headaches, breast tenderness, and painful, heavy periods. When balance flips, a sudden “clear-out” can follow. That hormonal seesaw explains the irregular timelines and intensity that so many of us face. Alongside the physiology, we share what actually helps: longer, ultra-absorbent pads with front and back wings to prevent back leaks, non-applicator tampons for gentler placement when dryness hits, and discreet liners for those in-between days. We also talk sensitivities—why fragrance-free, dye-free, chlorine-free products are kinder to vulval skin when oestrogen dips. Heavy bleeding brings real fatigue and can drain iron, especially if vitamin D and magnesium are already low. We offer simple, sustainable habits: track cycles with notes on flow, pain, mood, and symptoms; look for patterns you can bring to your GP; and build a small, reliable kit so you’re prepared for surprises. We highlight resources and community support from brands backing menopause and endometriosis causes, because none of this should feel lonely or shame-filled. The goal isn’t a perfect period—it’s steady confidence, even when your cycle is anything but. If this conversation helps you, share it with a friend who needs it. Subscribe, rate, and leave a review so more women can find clear guidance and feel less alone. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/support] For my information about my coaching:  1-2-1 coaching, group programmes, workshops, etc. https://kategrosvenor.com [ https://kategrosvenor.com]. For my brand NEW perimenopause collagen and supplements:  info and shop here:  https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements] The UncompliKated Perimenopause Membership: https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember [https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember] If you would like to shop for perimenopause supplements, my book "The UncompliKated Guide to Perimenopause", bamboo nightwear, etc https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com] The Beautiful Mindset Membership: https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership [https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership] If you would like to submit questions for us to answer,- WhatsApp: (+44) 07946 163988 or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/] For a copy of my FREE Perimenopause checklist & tracker http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com [http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com]

Episode 5 Season 3: Restless Legs Stopping Restful Nights in Perimenopause?

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/fan_mail/new] The creeping, buzzing urge to move your legs just as you’re trying to sleep isn’t random—and you’re not imagining it. We dive into why restless legs flare during perimenopause, how fluctuating estrogen disrupts dopamine signalling, and why falling progesterone leaves muscles tense and jumpy. From the first “why won’t my legs settle?” to the morning-after fog, we connect the dots between hormones, stress, stimulants, and sleep quality. We also get practical. You’ll learn how iron status and ferritin influence restless legs, why vitamin D matters for neuromuscular calm, and which common meds—like antihistamines hidden in “night-time” pills—can make things worse. We unpack the caffeine–wine loop that keeps nerves revved and sleep fragmented, with a special look at histamine sensitivity that often spikes in midlife. Then we share a step-by-step plan: the right magnesium trio (glycinate for sleep, taurate for a calmer mind, malate for muscle ease), how to use topical magnesium for targeted relief, and the small evening rituals that create a true wind-down. Expect simple, doable changes: a warm (not hot) bath, gentle floor stretches or slow yoga, low light and soothing scents, reading instead of scrolling, and smarter coffee timing. We round it out with guidance on lab tests to request, what “optimal” looks like, and how to talk to your GP about medication alternatives if needed. If you’ve been stuck in the cope-and-crash cycle—more coffee to survive the day, a glass of wine to soften the night—this conversation offers a kinder path to steady energy and quiet legs. If this helped you, follow and share with someone who needs better sleep tonight. Subscribe for more clear, compassionate guidance on perimenopause, and leave a review so we can reach more women navigating the same road. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/support] For my information about my coaching:  1-2-1 coaching, group programmes, workshops, etc. https://kategrosvenor.com [ https://kategrosvenor.com]. For my brand NEW perimenopause collagen and supplements:  info and shop here:  https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements] The UncompliKated Perimenopause Membership: https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember [https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember] If you would like to shop for perimenopause supplements, my book "The UncompliKated Guide to Perimenopause", bamboo nightwear, etc https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com] The Beautiful Mindset Membership: https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership [https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership] If you would like to submit questions for us to answer,- WhatsApp: (+44) 07946 163988 or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/] For a copy of my FREE Perimenopause checklist & tracker http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com [http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com]

Episode 4 Season 3: The Freedom of Fewer Choices in a Perimenopause Life That Asks Too Much

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/fan_mail/new] Feeling wrung out by a hundred tiny choices before lunch? We dive into the real reasons decisions feel heavier during perimenopause—and how to get your clarity and confidence back without trying harder or becoming “more disciplined.” With a clear, kind breakdown of brain science, we explain how the prefrontal cortex tires across the day, how cortisol tugs you into fight-or-flight, and why fluctuating oestrogen and poor sleep amplify overwhelm. You’ll hear concrete signs of decision fatigue and why snapping at “What’s for dinner?” is not a moral failing but a predictable response to cognitive overload. From there, we get practical. We share the systems that reduce friction: capsule wardrobes that remove morning debates, a rotating family meal list everyone agrees to, and recurring orders that eliminate memory traps for supplements and essentials. We talk about rituals that soothe the nervous system and cut micro-decisions, the best time of day to tackle complex thinking, and how to delegate household choices so you’re no longer the default decider. You’ll also learn how to limit choice overload on purpose, unsubscribe from inbox noise without guilt, and embrace “good enough” as a true energy saver. There’s warmth and humour throughout—plus a quick look at our upcoming firewalk coaching event and what World Menopause Month means for this community. If decision paralysis, wardrobe standoffs, or late-night doom scrolling feel familiar, this conversation offers simple tools that work in real life. Subscribe to stay close to fresh, stigma-free guidance on perimenopause, and share this episode with a friend who needs permission to choose less. If it helped, leave a quick review—your words help more women find support when they need it most. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/support] For my information about my coaching:  1-2-1 coaching, group programmes, workshops, etc. https://kategrosvenor.com [ https://kategrosvenor.com]. For my brand NEW perimenopause collagen and supplements:  info and shop here:  https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements] The UncompliKated Perimenopause Membership: https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember [https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember] If you would like to shop for perimenopause supplements, my book "The UncompliKated Guide to Perimenopause", bamboo nightwear, etc https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com] The Beautiful Mindset Membership: https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership [https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership] If you would like to submit questions for us to answer,- WhatsApp: (+44) 07946 163988 or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/] For a copy of my FREE Perimenopause checklist & tracker http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com [http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com]

Episode 3 Season 3: The Early Warning Signs: How to Know You're in Perimenopause

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/fan_mail/new] Have you ever wondered if those unexplained mood swings, sleep problems, or joint pain might actually be perimenopause—even though your doctor insists you're "too young"? You're not alone, and you're not imagining things. In this eye-opening episode, we tackle a question from Sue in Blackpool who, at 42, finds herself caught between her body's signals and her doctor's dismissal. The truth? Perimenopause can begin as early as your mid-30s, with symptoms appearing up to 15 years before menopause itself. Most shockingly, many GPs receive only minimal training on perimenopause despite it affecting 51% of the population. We dive deep into the subtle early warning signs that often get missed or attributed to stress, aging, or simply "being dramatic." While hot flashes might be the most talked-about symptom, they're rarely the first to appear. Instead, watch for changes in your menstrual cycle, unexplained sleep disruptions, joint pain (frozen shoulder, anyone?), and that rollercoaster of emotions that makes you feel like you're losing your mind. The emotional landscape of perimenopause deserves special attention—from unexplained tears to rage that makes slow walkers seem like a personal affront. As oestrogen (your nurturing hormone) begins its erratic decline, many women find themselves withdrawing from activities and social connections they once loved, creating a secondary loss that rarely gets acknowledged. Whether you're experiencing symptoms yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers clarity, validation, and practical guidance for navigating this transformative life stage with knowledge and self-compassion. Because perimenopause doesn't have to be complicated when you understand what's happening in your body and mind. If you would like to support my petition to require all doctors to receive perimenopause training and GPs to have specialists click here:  HTTPS://PETITION.PARLIAMENT.UK/PETITIONS/726736?FBCLID=IWY2XJAWKR491LEHRUA2FLBQIXMQBICMLKETF5RVPNELDVCLNQMWP6N1NTAR6MRLM_H_E1YIXB_DGWODKGFO9FCJ2N [https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/726736?fbclid=IwY2xjawKr491leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETF5RVpNeldvclNqMWp6N1NTAR6MRlM_H_e1yixb_dGwodkgFO9FCJ2Ntgkh1w_lPXAMODy6pcTXMmCCRtYg3A_aem_RHeZiFVtF_MNCGGimcRb8A] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/support] For my information about my coaching:  1-2-1 coaching, group programmes, workshops, etc. https://kategrosvenor.com [ https://kategrosvenor.com]. For my brand NEW perimenopause collagen and supplements:  info and shop here:  https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements] The UncompliKated Perimenopause Membership: https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember [https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember] If you would like to shop for perimenopause supplements, my book "The UncompliKated Guide to Perimenopause", bamboo nightwear, etc https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com] The Beautiful Mindset Membership: https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership [https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership] If you would like to submit questions for us to answer,- WhatsApp: (+44) 07946 163988 or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/] For a copy of my FREE Perimenopause checklist & tracker http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com [http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com]

Episode 2 Season 3: Testosterone for Women: The Missing Piece in Perimenopause

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/fan_mail/new] Breaking ground in women's health! The UK has just approved Androfem, a 1% testosterone cream specially formulated for women – a game-changer for those navigating the complex terrain of perimenopause. Most conversations about perimenopause revolve around estrogen and progesterone, but testosterone deserves equal attention. This powerful hormone affects far more than just libido – it's crucial for maintaining energy levels, cognitive function, muscle mass, and perhaps most importantly, that sense of confidence many women feel slipping away during this transition. Until this breakthrough, women seeking testosterone supplementation faced significant hurdles. Importing Androfem from Australia at £100 per tube wasn't feasible for most, while the alternative – microdosing male testosterone products – came with its own set of challenges. Women need just one-tenth the testosterone dose that men require, making precise application critical to avoid unwanted side effects. The regulatory landscape hasn't helped either. Current guidelines only recommend testosterone for menopausal women experiencing low sexual desire when HRT proves insufficient – a narrow focus that ignores its many other benefits. To obtain a prescription, you must specifically mention libido issues; cognitive benefits or energy concerns simply won't tick the necessary boxes for healthcare providers. While Androfem won't be produced in the UK until 2026 and isn't yet approved for NHS prescription, this represents a crucial first step. For those currently struggling, speaking with healthcare providers specifically about libido concerns remains the gateway to obtaining testosterone supplementation. Beyond hormones, remember that weight-bearing exercise becomes increasingly important as testosterone naturally declines. And perhaps most importantly, embrace the identity shift that perimenopause brings – you won't "get back to your old self," but the new version can be wiser, calmer, and more focused on what truly matters. Join our free Perimenopause with Kate Grosvenor Facebook group for support, or try our £9 monthly membership for exclusive resources. And don't miss our 30-day Periweight Challenge starting September 15th, designed to help you feel better in yo Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2374940/support] For my information about my coaching:  1-2-1 coaching, group programmes, workshops, etc. https://kategrosvenor.com [ https://kategrosvenor.com]. For my brand NEW perimenopause collagen and supplements:  info and shop here:  https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com/collections/perimenopause-supplements] The UncompliKated Perimenopause Membership: https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember [https://kategrosvenor.kartra.com/page/UncompliKatedGuidetoPerimenopauseMember] If you would like to shop for perimenopause supplements, my book "The UncompliKated Guide to Perimenopause", bamboo nightwear, etc https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com [https://kategrosvenorlifestyle.com] The Beautiful Mindset Membership: https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership [https://www.feedyourfairy.com/BeautifulMindMembership] If you would like to submit questions for us to answer,- WhatsApp: (+44) 07946 163988 or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausewithkategrosvenor/] For a copy of my FREE Perimenopause checklist & tracker http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com [http://www.myperimenopausesymptoms.com]