Can Perimenopause Cause Pins and Needles?
A few weeks ago, I was invited to a women’s church retreat to talk about women’s transition years (Perimenopause), but among the many questions which were asked by a quarter of the women attending was about pins and needles. This is one of the symptoms I had during my transition but I never knew that it had any connection with perimenopause symptoms.
Yes, perimenopause can sometimes cause pins and needles sensations in the body (also known as paraesthesia). Women during the transition age, those tingling, prickling sensations in their extremities may result from hormonal fluctuations.
Some women described these symptoms as mysterious pins and needles in hands, feet, arms, and legs. Many women aren’t even aware of the link, which is why the onset of unexplained pins and needles can be quite disturbing!
However, this can be linked to hormonal changes, oestrogen fluctuations and blood circulation problems can have a direct effect on your nervous system during this time of your life.
When your oestrogen levels start to fluctuate, messages between the nervous system and parts of the body can be misinterpreted, resulting in a tingling feeling. But remember each woman is different and not all pins and needles are associated with perimenopause so check with your menopausal therapist.
Here are 5 simple lifestyle changes:
1. Daily Movement – 30 minutes of physical activity (walking, jogging, swimming, dancing, or weightlifting any activity which you enjoy. This will improve your blood circulation, which can help to ease the symptoms of pins and needles.
2. Yoga or any other Stretching Exercise – doing stretching exercises will reduce tension and improve blood flow around your body hence easing the symptoms.
3. Hydrate, Eat, Sleep, Repeat – most women know this one, this is just a reminder that during the transition you should be mindful of how you nourish your body with adequate water, and food, not forgetting 8 hours of sleep- is considered fully rested. Avoid caffeine and alcohol intake for optimal wellbeing,
4. Supplement Your Diet – Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in those with paraesthesia (pins and needles). Nutrilite plant-based Vitamin B Plus Dual-Action supports your energy and fights fatigue with dual action for optimised vitamin B12 and all other B vitamins nutrient absorption.
Additionally, XS Magnesium Sticks offer a convenient way of attaining this vital mineral which supports normal functioning of the nervous system and muscles. Check with your menopausal therapist.
5. Acupuncture Therapy – yeah that’s right, fight fire with fire, needles can help with pins and needles! This Chinese approach to healing is known to facilitate blood circulation by dilating constricted blood vessels. I regularly use this therapy as an overall wellness boost.
Menopause is a natural stage of life, and with the right information and support, you can navigate it with grace and confidence. It's time to reclaim your womanhood and embrace the garden of wellness that lies ahead. For more tips and guidance on managing menopause, explore our comprehensive menopause wellness guide.
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