Perimenopause & hormones

[Bad JuJu]

I'm 55, almost postmenopausal (I think), and haven't ever taken HRT, though my doctor would've been happy to prescribe it. But really, I think I've had a pretty gentle menopause--I did and still do occasionally get flashes, both night and day, but they're nothing compared to what some women go through. Mine are like someone else mentioned--short and not too intense. Exercise helps, though I never would have thought one body could produce so much perspiration!

Here's an interesting thing to look forward to: now that I seem to be coming out on the "other side" of the pause, I'm actually beginning to feel colder than most people around me, much of the time. Then a flash hits and I have to start peeling things off. It's a roller coaster!

[RoadRaven]

I still think this is where I am heading - hot flushes during the night sometimes - last month I had only 3 weeks between periods - that hasn't happened since I was a teenager! (Even after babies, my period began in regular 30 day cycles).

I am glad you have the reassurance of being able to talk with women here, Dogmama. I am glad you recognise patterns in your family and are aware of your own feelings.

The hippy in me (even though I was BORN in the 60s, so was a flower-bubba, rather than a flower-child) really wants to get through this part of my life medically unassisted. But like you, if needs must, then I will try what I need to if I have to. Ultimately, we still want to enjoy every day. Take care of yourself - this too will pass.

[Dogmama]

I don't take any medication lightly. I have lupus. Hormones that are not exactly right will cause a flare. Progesterone is the worst for me, but I know it helps lots of my friends. This stage of my life is almost unbearable. The hot flashes (sweating, turning bright red) are always followed by a cold flash - like my body doesn't have anymore body heat to give me. So, I alternately throw covers off and then bundle up at night. And wake up at 3:00 AM, tired of fighting the battle.

My doc said that she'll taper me when the time is right. She's very holistically inclined, but doesn't prescribe anything that doesn't have a foundation of proof. I used to work with Andrew Weil, so I've been the herbal compound route. It might have helped when my symptoms were mild, but now they just give me expensive urine. I used to declare that I would never go on hormones because they aren't natural & if my body wants to age, we'll do it gracefully. Mommie Dearest isn't natural. OK, not that bad - but inwardly I'm screaming "No metal hangers!"

I've done tons of therapy and it helps. I don't know how women who don't exercise get through this period. Without my workouts, especially cycling, I'd be really miserable. Although, it is a little disconcerting to be weight lifting & start hot flashing. Hopefully all the young kids just think I'm working REALLY hard!