BY STAFF SERGEANT JODI STICKLAND, AGC SPS
Serving in the Armed Forces demands resilience, discipline and unwavering commitment. For years, I prided myself on meeting these expectations head-on. However, when perimenopause entered my life at the age of 37, it brought challenges I never anticipated – personally and professionally.
It crept in quietly at first – irregular periods, disrupted sleep, headaches and fatigue that no amount of rest could cure. Soon, the symptoms intensified – hot flushes, vaginal dryness, sore breasts, brain fog so severe I feared early-onset dementia, and aching joints that made PT difficult. The physical symptoms were challenging, but the emotional toll was equally consuming.
Change in character
The calm composure I once relied on gave way to anxiety, which surfaced in situations where I had previously excelled, and my confidence began to wane as the brain fog and fatigue led me to question my abilities. I found myself second-guessing decisions, worrying about how others perceived me and not feeling good enough.
At home, the strain was just as real. My patience wore thin and the energy I once devoted to family life seemed to vanish. Social interactions felt overwhelming and I often withdrew, feeling misunderstood.
My relationship with my husband began to suffer as unpredictable mood swings took hold and my libido went completely AWOL. My poor partner didn’t know if he was living with a wife or a walking volcano in uniform. In hindsight, it’s easy to make light of that time. But it was tough and I felt isolated and unsure of who I could talk to.
Clearer skies
The turning point came when I sought medical advice and started hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It was a game-changer. Gradually my symptoms eased, my energy returned and my emotional balance was restored. It wasn’t an overnight fix, but as the fog lifted, I began to feel like myself again – confident, upbeat and ready to embrace life with joy.
Now 43, I’ve made some lifestyle changes – alongside continuing HRT – as I don’t have the body or abilities of my younger self. I focus on exercise, a healthier diet and prioritising my mental well-being. And sharing my perimenopause journey isn’t just therapeutic, it’s a way to lead by example and break down the stigma that has silenced so many women for too long.
Tackling taboo
As part of the MOD Menopause Network Committee, I share my experience to educate and raise awareness among both service men and women. I’ve turned my personal journey into a platform for change by empowering and breaking down barriers.
My mission is simple yet powerful: to make sure every woman knows she is not alone, and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
The menopause is a natural stage of life, but its effects can be profound, especially in demanding roles in the military. My journey has been challenging, but the help of my husband and chain of command allowed me to rise stronger than ever and if this experience has taught me anything, it’s that true strength begins with support.
The network can be reached by serving personnel on the internal MOD system.