.png)
.png)
Midlife is often seen as a time of transition and change, but for many women, it’s an overwhelming shift filled with challenges. For those navigating the complexities of motherhood during perimenopause or menopause, it can feel like a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs. On the latest episode of Mastering Midlife & Motherhood on the Hormone Harmony Podcast, host Ashley Wheeler talks with Jennifer Chaney, a life coach and advocate for women’s health, about how women can successfully manage these major life changes. The conversation offers insightful strategies on how to prioritize mental, emotional, and physical health during midlife while balancing the responsibilities of raising children.
This blog post explores the key themes from their conversation, supported by medical research, statistics, and expert advice on managing midlife’s most significant challenges, from fluctuating hormones to redefining personal goals and priorities.
For many women, becoming a mother is a major life milestone, one that often defines their identity and purpose. However, as Ashley and Jennifer discuss on Mastering Midlife & Motherhood, motherhood in midlife brings its own set of challenges that aren’t often talked about. Jennifer notes, “We don’t talk about the invisible load that we carry as women, especially mothers, in this phase of life. There are over 13 milestones that women experience during midlife, but society doesn’t prepare us for them. We get blindsided.”
Indeed, the experience of midlife often comes with an evolving sense of identity. According to a study published in The Journal of Women & Aging, women’s emotional well-being is significantly impacted by life transitions, including menopause and children leaving home. This stage can feel isolating as women attempt to reconcile who they were with who they are becoming.
Jennifer emphasizes that it’s crucial for women to understand that they can have multiple purposes in life. She says, “We often place all our energy into our roles as mothers, but we need to remember that we are more than just moms. It’s never too late to rediscover yourself, your passions, and your purpose beyond motherhood.”
The impact of this stage in life on mental health cannot be underestimated. Research indicates that women in midlife are at a higher risk for mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, particularly when navigating the combined stresses of parenting and hormonal shifts. A 2020 study in JAMA Psychiatry found that women’s risk for depression increases significantly during the perimenopausal years, a time when hormonal fluctuations can trigger mood swings, irritability, and sleep disturbances.
When it comes to midlife, one of the most challenging aspects is managing the hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause. For women in this stage of life, hormonal fluctuations can bring on a variety of uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, fatigue, and mood swings. These physical changes can make juggling the demands of motherhood even more difficult.
Jennifer explains on Mastering Midlife & Motherhood, “It’s important to recognize that perimenopause and menopause are not just about hot flashes and weight gain; they’re about emotional and mental shifts as well. Your body is literally going through a transformation, and it takes time to adjust to those changes.”
The impact of hormonal changes on women’s health is significant. According to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), nearly 80% of women experience symptoms of perimenopause, and 45% report that these symptoms negatively impact their quality of life. Furthermore, research published in Obstetrics & Gynecology highlights that women’s hormonal health during perimenopause can also affect their ability to maintain an active lifestyle, contributing to weight gain and reduced energy levels.
For women struggling with symptoms like fatigue and mood swings, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can offer a potential solution. Studies have shown that BHRT can help alleviate common symptoms of menopause, improving sleep quality, energy levels, and mood. In fact, a 2017 study in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that BHRT significantly reduced hot flashes, night sweats, and irritability in women undergoing menopause.
As Ashley and Jennifer discussed on Mastering Midlife & Motherhood, the key to thriving in midlife and motherhood lies in prioritizing self-care. While women in this phase of life often feel the need to be everything to everyone, Jennifer stresses that it’s crucial to make time for yourself. “You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s vital to take care of yourself so that you can be there for your family,” she shares.
Self-care is not just about indulging in occasional relaxation; it’s about creating a sustainable routine that nurtures both your physical and mental health. Exercise, proper nutrition, mindfulness, and stress management are all essential aspects of maintaining overall well-being.
The health benefits of regular physical activity, particularly in midlife, are well-documented. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), women over 40 who engage in regular physical activity have a significantly reduced risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Additionally, exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are more common in midlife due to hormonal shifts.
Jennifer also emphasizes the importance of mental health care. “Therapy and life coaching are powerful tools for women in midlife. They offer a space to process the changes we’re going through and help us create new goals for the next phase of life.”
Indeed, a growing body of research supports the positive impact of therapy during menopause. According to a 2019 study published in Menopause, women who participated in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) experienced significant improvements in mood, sleep, and overall quality of life during perimenopause and menopause.
As women reach midlife, there is often a natural shift in priorities and personal goals. For many mothers, this can be a period of rediscovery, where they look beyond their roles as caregivers and start to explore new personal and professional goals. Jennifer points out, “It’s not just about surviving these years; it’s about thriving through them. You have an opportunity to reinvent yourself and redefine your purpose.”
A 2021 study published in The Journals of Gerontology found that women who embrace new challenges and goals during midlife report higher levels of life satisfaction and lower levels of stress. Whether it’s pursuing a career change, returning to school, or exploring a creative hobby, this phase can offer women the opportunity to reconnect with their passions and redefine their identity.
Lastly, both Jennifer and Ashley emphasize that women should not be afraid to seek help during midlife. Whether it’s through hormone therapy, life coaching, or professional counseling, getting the support you need is essential to navigating this stage of life successfully.
Jennifer highlights the importance of building a support system: “You don’t have to go through this alone. Find the people, resources, and tools that will help you thrive in this phase of life.”
The support of peers, professionals, and loved ones plays a critical role in helping women manage the stresses of midlife. According to the American Psychological Association, women who have a strong social support network report better mental health outcomes during menopause and midlife.
Navigating midlife and motherhood can feel like a daunting task, but as Jennifer and Ashley have shared on Mastering Midlife & Motherhood, it’s entirely possible to not only survive this transition but to thrive. By recognizing the importance of self-care, seeking support, prioritizing mental and physical health, and redefining personal goals, women can embrace this new chapter with confidence and clarity.
As you approach midlife, remember that you are not alone in this journey. With the right tools, support, and mindset, midlife and motherhood can be a time of growth, reinvention, and empowerment.
At Thrivelab, we understand the challenges that come with hormonal changes during midlife, and we're here to help you every step of the way. Whether you're navigating perimenopause, menopause, or simply looking to optimize your hormone health, our personalized hormone therapy and health services are designed to support you through this transformative time. Visit Thrivelab's hormone health services to learn more about how we can help you thrive in midlife and beyond.
.avif)
.avif)
.avif)
