Perimenopause & hormones

[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!