Transitions Through the Perimenopausal Years is a new way of looking at midlife for women. It recognises that the number of symptoms associated with perimenopause, partly determined by a woman’s health and history, are further affected by her particular social relations, economic demands and position, career path, and spirituality.

The authors were struck by the array of confusing information available to women about midlife and perimenopause. They learned through conducting workshops and listening to women’s stories that there is no one way to experience perimenopause. Women launched into anecdotes about hot flushes and night sweats, some lamented losing their sex drive, others told of their productivity during nights of insomnia. We also found that not only is each woman’s perimenopausal experience unique but her self-perception influences her transition. We believe that if each woman could fully assess her perimenopausal situation, she could then choose all that she needs to have an empowering – and even fun! – perimenopausal journey.

The video was created by an award-winning production team in collaboration with the authors of Transitions Through the Perimenopausal Years. It was nominated for a 2004 Freddy Educational Award in the category of Women's Health. The script was based on the book by the same title. Many experts in various fields of women’s health were interviewed for the video. A local rhythm and blues band, ‘Menopause Blues Band” wrote and performed the background music for the video.

Eight women came together to share their individual stories and to learn more about perimenopause. This gathering was hosted by Lissa and Andrea who acted as resources for some of the questions and concerns raised.