The Metamorphosis of a Woman

Written by Dr. Ritva Mettänen, MD

Turning 40 marks a significant turning point in a woman’s life. And when I say 40, I mean 40-ish. For some women, the transformation begins as early as 35; for others, it may not fully arrive until they enter their mid-40s. Either way, rest assured — none of us is immune to it.

You might be wondering, what do you mean by “it”?

Not only will you start experiencing the physical symptoms of perimenopause — the not-so-subtle weight gain, the sweaty, restless nights, fatigue, irritability, rashes, aches, and pains, worsened PMS and bleeding, headaches, migrains, and so on — but you will also be introduced to the psychological changes that emerge during this season of life, whether you want it or not.

Spoiler alert! The journey through this metamorphosis depends entirely on your own actions – you can either be the driver or the victim of the transformation.

The Worst-Case Scenario

In the worst case, you’re left with a collection of new symptoms and diagnoses: prediabetes, diabetes, hypothyroidism, hair loss, rosacea, aches and pains, and depression — and then comes the morning you wake up, look around, and realize you’re divorced, you hate your job (if you haven’t already left it), and you no longer care about anyone else’s opinions.

On the bright side, you've probably learned how to set some much-needed boundaries along the way, but perhaps you could’ve saved a few bridges from burning.

The Best-Case Scenario

In the best case, you navigate this phase like an elite warrior. You learn to listen to your body, sit patiently with your thoughts and emotions, create healthy boundaries, and develop new skills, like self-compassion.

You come to understand that real growth requires facing your past, sitting with your pain, and finding peace and forgiveness within. You realize that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a sign of deep wisdom.

You accept this chapter as a sacred transition — a metamorphosis into a stronger, wiser self. And although you’ll still face all the physical and psychological changes, you’ll face them with grace and an inner wisdom that can’t be shaken.

You Have a Choice

The path is the same for all of us. But it’s up to you whether you face the flames with courage and guidance – or alone, fighting against it, as a victim of circumstances.

Whichever way you choose, it is worth knowing that there is beauty waiting at the end of your journey.

After all this, it is time to meet the new you. To rediscover your needs and dreams, your voice, and your relationship with the world around you. Menopause is not an ending – on the contrary, it’s a beginning of something extraordinary: A rebirth. A rising. A stepping into your inner wisdom, your power, and the woman you were always meant to be.

And while the change is inevitable, the suffering is not.