How Occupational Therapy Can Support Women Through Perimenopause and Menopause

perimenopausemenopausewomenhormone support

Sep 3

Perimenopause and menopause are major life transitions — not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, and socially.

And while many women expect symptoms like hot flashes or mood swings, they’re often surprised by how deeply these hormonal changes affect daily life: energy, memory, sleep, strength, balance, and even simple routines.

Occupational Therapy (OT) is uniquely positioned to support women through this season, helping them adapt, thrive, and feel more like themselves again.

Here’s how.

Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause

Perimenopause typically begins in a woman’s 40s (sometimes earlier), and menopause is defined as the point when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period.

During these stages, hormonal shifts — especially declining estrogen — can create widespread changes throughout the body and brain, including:

Fatigue and disrupted sleep
Memory issues (“brain fog”)
Mood changes (anxiety, irritability, depression)
Pelvic floor dysfunction (leaking, prolapse, discomfort)
Decreased muscle mass and strength
Increased joint pain and stiffness
Balance and coordination challenges

Many women feel frustrated, isolated, or overwhelmed — especially when these changes start to impact work, family life, and self-care.

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

Occupational Therapists are experts in helping people adapt to life changes and maximize function, comfort, and well-being.

For women navigating perimenopause and menopause, OT support can include:

Energy Conservation and Fatigue Management

We teach strategies to manage energy wisely, set realistic routines, and avoid the boom-and-bust cycle of exhaustion.

Cognitive Support (“Brain Fog” Solutions)

Occupational therapy can help with memory tools, organization strategies, and cognitive exercises to strengthen clarity and focus.

Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic health changes are common but not inevitable.

We offer support for issues like leaking, prolapse symptoms, or pelvic pain — using gentle, effective therapies to restore strength and function.

Balance and Strength Training

Falls are more common after menopause due to muscle and bone changes.

We design personalized movement and strength-building programs to support stability, confidence, and independence.

Sleep and Stress Management

Using breathwork, mindfulness, and lifestyle adaptations, we help women rebuild better sleep routines and manage the emotional ups and downs that can accompany hormonal shifts.

You Deserve to Thrive — Not Just Survive

The changes of perimenopause and menopause are real — but they don’t have to control your life.

Occupational therapy offers practical, holistic support for women at every stage, helping you stay strong, clear-headed, connected, and empowered.

If you’re ready to feel like yourself again, we’re here to help.

Unity Health & Wellness

We are a health and wellness clinic offering Occupational Therapy Services to ALL ages and stages. Pregnant, infant, children, older folks and MEN are welcome. We collaborate with a variety of practitioners to help you design your healthcare. Also offering Aerial Fitness to MOST of the above groups depending on a variety of factors.