Menopause
'Menopause isn't really that bad'...said no woman ever.
For those who are approaching or experiencing 'the change' (think reverse puberty), a time where hormone levels decline either through the aging process or by medical/surgical means.
Menopause and Perimenopause (the transitional time before Menopause) are unique to every person, and while there's no one-size fits all, we support each other on this roller coaster ride of wacked out hormones, absurd mood swings and random sweaty hot flashes.
Be kind. Be respectful. We are all in this together!
RULES
1. All genders can post We are all here to learn about menopause and how to help anyone experiencing menopause, so be supportive and respectful.
2. Don't be a bully, creep, jerk or troll This means no personal attacks, no misogyny, no misandry, ageism, racism, or otherwise hateful or disrespectful commentary.
3. Read the Wiki and use the search tool before posting a new question
4. No selling products or services You can recommend products/methods that work for you, but soliciting clients or patients is not allowed. No advertising or self-promotions, including using this sub to drive traffic elsewhere.
5. Research surveys/studies are allowed ONLY after contacting the mods with details of the survey (purpose of survey, academic associations, how will the data be used, privacy/confidentiality policy) Mods will determine whether to approve the post or not. Those choosing to participate in surveys, must do so at their own risk.
6. No posting lab results We are not a substitute for medical advice. Questions about your lab results should be directed to your medical professional. Hormonal tests are not an accurate diagnosing tool for perimenopause.
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I wonder if the more 'social' folk notice a distinct difference now in menopause. For me, I've always had a smaller social circle and preferred to be at home rather than out at different events, etc. I think the covid isolation contributed to being more of a homebody for a lot of people. Too much noise, too much stimulation, too much nonsense can really feel like an assault to our senses and our tolerance levels.
Well don't feel guilty for thinking those thoughts, I think we can all relate.
I have no idea. I know I feel like I'm having a very different experience to my three friends - maybe that's a source of resentment that I need to deal with. Although I'm the youngest I'm the only one that's actually hit meno, over a year ago, they're all still peri. My sex drive and my energy levels and my appetite for life in general have just plummeted, and they can't relate at all and don't get it. I think I do need to work on that anger and resentment. But yes, also, this is part of the process, and this is where I'm at, and I can't feel guilty because of it. Thank you.
You never know, they may be feeling somewhat the same way, but just don't want to share that information. Talking about our vulnerabilities is hard and when we do, we worry about other's perceptions...like will they think I'm depressed? a whiner? So we put our best foot forward, smile and try to be in the moment, but it's hard. Then there's the person who seems perfectly put together, capable and exudes confident happiness. You just never know what's going on inside, what their fears or worries are. It's hard to stop making comparisons.
I like to think that knowing when to take a step back, and realizing you just want to be alone at home and feel whatever emotions....could be a superpower too. Like we enjoy our own company and that is enough.