Postpartum and Perimenopause… at the Same Time? Yep, It’s a Thing.
- Melanie Duettchen
- Jun 2
- 2 min read
I recently attended a local event called Hot for Hormones, and even as someone who lives and breathes fitness and nutrition — and is currently working on her Menopause Fitness and Nutrition Certification — I still walked away with so many “whoa” moments.
The one that really stuck with me?
More and more women are dealing with postpartum challenges and perimenopausal symptoms at the same time.
And here’s why:More women are having babies later in life — which means we’re seeing a bigger overlap between early motherhood and the beginning of hormonal shifts that come with perimenopause.
Wait… Perimenopause Can Start That Early?
Yep. It can begin as early as your mid-30s.
So if you’re juggling a newborn or toddler and also feeling a bit off — hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, sleep issues — there’s a chance perimenopause could be part of it.
You’re not crazy. You’re not alone. And no, it’s not “just being tired.”
HRT and New Moms? It’s Not Off the Table.
Here’s something you might not expect:It’s totally possible to start Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) even if you’re still in the postpartum phase.
Many women hesitate to explore this, especially if they’ve just had a baby — but HRT can help regulate your hormone levels, improve sleep, support mood, and help you feel more like yourself again.
As always, talk to your doctor if you think this might be right for you. But know this: You have options.
The “Saggy Uterus Feeling” is Real — and Fixable
Another gem from the event?We talked about the weird-but-real “saggy uterus feeling” that can happen as estrogen levels drop (whether or not you’ve had kids).
What helps?
👉 The connection breath.It’s a super simple, super powerful breathing technique that helps engage your pelvic floor and deep core muscles — giving your body the support it needs from the inside out.
This isn’t just about “getting your core back.”It’s about long-term pelvic health, bladder control, posture, and strength. All things we need for motherhood and midlife.
Your Core Hormone-Balancing Trio: Protein, Fiber, and Lifting
Alongside connection breath, here are three basics that I talk about with every client:
1. Protein
Builds and preserves lean muscle, stabilizes energy, and supports hormone production.📌 Aim for a quality source with every meal.
2. Fiber
Supports digestion, balances blood sugar, and helps regulate estrogen levels.📌 Include veggies, fruits, and whole grains every day.
3. Resistance Training
Lifting weights helps with metabolism, mood, bone density, and yes — perimenopausal symptoms.📌 Start simple, but stay consistent.
You're Not Alone. And You Don't Have to Just "Push Through"
If your body feels unpredictable and you’re juggling motherhood plus hormonal shifts, it’s not all in your head — and you don’t have to white-knuckle your way through it.
You just need the right tools, the right support, and maybe a deep breath (or ten).
Comments