We asked 22 women what they’d say, anonymously, to anyone going through perimenopause right now.

Thanks to our brand partner, Melrose Health

Mamamia's Confessions series asks women to share what they'd say to the people closest to them, if they could do so anonymously. What would you tell your parents? Your manager? Your ex? It could be a secret you've been holding onto for years, or something that's on your mind right now. Nothing is off-limits.

This week, we asked 22 women the one thing they'd say to anyone going through perimenopause right now. Here's what they told us.

It can sneak up on you at any time, and for most of us, it's when we least expect it. That's because, while we've all heard about menopause, we still don't quite expect it to happen to us.

But it will happen, and for some, the transition — known as perimenopause — can come as a huge shock.

Lately, there's been a lot of talk about perimenopause and menopause itself, thanks to high-profile women bringing it out into the open.

But here's the thing: because the symptoms are so varied, reading about someone else's experience still may not prepare you.

That's why we've put it out there to as many women as we could find to share their unique experiences and advice.

The responses were broad, ranging from managing bloodshot eyes to finding the right support. One option is Melrose Peri Meno Ultra Complex. It's packed with clinically researched ingredients like Affron saffron and Siberian rhubarb that help tackle those fun surprises like mood swings, night sweats and irregular cycles (you know the ones), while supporting overall hormonal balance.

They've also included chasteberry, which herbal medicine has traditionally relied on to provide holistic support for perimenopause symptoms. Plus, it uses award-winning LipiSperse technology which ensures the active ingredients are absorbed efficiently, maximising their effectiveness and delivering faster results.

But now, over to the women who have been there, done that with their words of wisdom and a dash of humour.

"Maybe it was just me, but I was not prepared for how itchy my skin would get."

"I was in denial for ages. Then, as more and more women spoke about it publicly — like Mia Freedman and Naomi Watts — I stared it squarely on."

"The hot flushes hit me in the most inconvenient places — during important meetings, on dates, in the supermarket. Now I always carry a mini fan!"

"Understanding what was happening to my body made a big difference for me and my family."

"Don't ever let anyone tell you to turn the aircon down. That should be a prison sentence right there."

"The best part? I've stopped caring what anyone thinks. It's weirdly liberating to just be exactly who I am, hot flushes and all."

"Just when I think I've figured out my cycle, it completely changes the rules on me. Every. Single. Time."

"The brain fog is no joke!"

"Anyone who tries to tell you perimenopause isn't real clearly hasn't lived through it!"

"Don't settle until you find someone who really listens and understands what you're going through."

"They don't tell you your eyes change! Not just overall but mine are bloodshot some weeks and fine the next."

"This experience has taught me so much about my body and myself. I'm actually proud of how I'm handling it all — we're stronger than we think."

"I forget words a lot more now and I'm far more emotional than ever."

"My eyesight has gone so far downhill I can't see fine print now without glasses."

"The brain fog — there are times when I forget the simplest of words and use 'whatsit' and 'thingo' to describe a cupboard, cup or table or even the names of people I've known for a long time."

"My vocabulary now consists mainly of 'Is it hot in here?' and 'Has anyone seen my keys?'."

"I'm enjoying not having a period anymore."

"Let's just say I've learned to always carry spare clothes. Always. And I mean ALWAYS. Public places have become quite the experience."

"My mum telling me she has no advice because she didn't even know she'd been through it and had no symptoms. Not a single one!"

"Be ready for the itchiness of your skin at night — everything is itchy and hot. Good luck girlfriend."

"I've started keeping sticky notes everywhere because sometimes my brain feels like it's playing hide and seek with simple words."

"The best thing about to come out of it is the amazing camaraderie and strengthened relationships with my awesome group of friends as we navigate peri together. Our other halves quietly look on, too terrified to offer anything but unconditional support. I'm so grateful this generation of women knows how to talk about this stuff."

Find Melrose Peri Meno Ultra Complex at your local Chemist Warehouse.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

Feature Image: Getty.

Discover Peri Meno Ultra Complex by Melrose Futurelab, a science-backed supplement designed to support women through perimenopause. This innovative formula targets common symptoms like mood swings, night sweats, and irregular periods, helping you feel your best every day. With advanced LipiSperse® technology for enhanced absorption, Peri Meno Ultra Complex empowers you to embrace this phase of life with confidence. Available at Chemist Warehouse. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. See aging differently with Melrose Futurelab.