What is happening to me?!
What is Perimenopause?
How Do I know if I'm in Perimenopause?
How Do I know if I'm in Perimenopause?
Quick Facts
- Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when your body gradually produces less estrogen.
- It typically starts in your 40s but can begin earlier. It can last on average anywhere from 2 to 10 years.
- During this phase, periods become irregular, and women can experience a vast array of symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, brain fog, and more
- Menopause is marked by 12 consecutive months without a period.
- Postmenopause starts the day immediately after menopause and continues for the rest of your life. During this time, hormones begin to level out.
How Do I know if I'm in Perimenopause?
How Do I know if I'm in Perimenopause?
How Do I know if I'm in Perimenopause?
Not sure if you're in perimenopause?
from OBGYN and perimenopause specialist, Dr. Mary Claire Haver's website The 'Pause Life
Examples of Perimenopausal Symptoms
- sleep issues
- vaginal dryness
- lower/higher libido than usual
- decreased fertility
- increased risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and high cholesterol as well as anxiety and depression
- joint and muscle aches
- bladder issues
- and many, many more
why didn't anyone tell me about this before?!
You felt something was wrong for months, maybe even years. You went to the doctor multiple times, but you were dismissed or ignored and told "this is just part of the aging process." You might have been told to eat less calories, work out more, get better rest, etc. You try to do all these things, but they're not making any difference, you still feel totally off.
So you keep going to different doctors, hoping to find one that can help you, because something is just not right- you know your body.
Then you finally find that specialist, the one that recognizes that your symptoms and struggles are all apart of perimenopause.
Peri what now?! Why didn't anyone tell me about this before?!!!
Now you have a diagnosis, what a relief! But what does it mean? What can you do to start feeling better and get a reprieve from your symptoms? All the things you've done for the past few decades are no longer working and you're feeling overwhelmed with all the changes you need to make. You aren't being dramatic or resisting treatment! You are grieving your old life.
I have gone through this experience- it's like a punch to the gut. It's not fair! I can teach you what is happening to your body, why it's happening, and will support you while navigating this change.
We'll get through this together!
If you are experiencing perimenopause, you’re not alone! I will help support you and brainstorm practical strategies to navigate this new chapter of life.
I'll explain what perimenopause is, and what's happening in your body. We'll explore your physical and emotional symptoms and I'll help you to recognize them.
I'll support you as we discuss how the changes in your body might already be affecting your daily life and relationships.
I will assist you in developing effective communication skills to talk with your partners, family, and friends about what you are experiencing.
We'll develop coping skills to manage stress and anxiety and discuss lifestyle changes that can lessen symptoms and make you feel in control of your life again.
I'll provide resources to help you find effective medical care to empower you and enhance your quality of life.