Perimenopause, I am Not Feeling Like Myself

Women going through the perimenopause transition frequently express a sense of not feeling like themselves. They experience symptoms that are so different from the body they have been accustomed to, leading them to often wonder when they will regain their life back.

Do you ever find yourself wondering what's going on? Without knowing what our bodies are experiencing, we can sometimes feel disheartened, taken by surprise, or even let down. Why does one day feel fantastic with positive energy and mood, while the following days feel low, leaving you fatigued and craving sleep?

Somewhere in our 40s, we may begin to notice erratic hormonal changes. These hormones are potent steroids that affect tissues and organs throughout our bodies. While estrogen levels are typically cyclic prior to menopause, they tend to fluctuate dramatically from high to low during perimenopause. Consequently, our menstrual cycles also become unpredictable, with heavy, light, and irregular periods.

This is serious business. During perimenopause, a transitional phase that can last several years leading up to menopause, women often find themselves navigating a complex and demanding landscape of responsibilities and emotions. At this time, many women are frequently in the throes of taking care of their aging parents while simultaneously raising their children, creating a challenging balancing act that can feel overwhelming. The pressure to manage these familial obligations can be immense, as the needs of both generations often collide, leaving little room for self-care or personal reflection.

In addition to these caregiving duties, many women are also deeply engaged in their careers, whether working at home or in a busy corporate environment. The commitment to professional responsibilities can add another layer of complexity to an already full schedule, as the demands of the workplace often require significant time, energy, and focus. This juggling act can lead to feelings of exhaustion and burnout, making it even more difficult to address personal health concerns that may arise during this time.

Moreover, the emotional landscape of perimenopause can be particularly challenging. Women often experience a range of symptoms, including mood swings, anxiety, and changes in sleep patterns, which can contribute to feelings of isolation and confusion. It is not uncommon for women to feel as though they are going through this transition alone, grappling with experiences that are often not openly discussed. This sense of isolation can be exacerbated by societal pressures to maintain a façade of strength and composure, leading many to hesitate in bringing their feelings and concerns to their doctors for help.

It is crucial to recognize that these feelings of uncertainty and the physical symptoms associated with perimenopause are valid and deserving of attention. Seeking support from your doctor can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing this transitional phase.

We aim to promote open and honest conversations about what is troubling you. There are numerous solutions available, including both hormonal and non-hormonal therapies, as well as lifestyle changes that can enhance your well-being. We want to help our patients feel supported and empower them with knowledge about perimenopause and menopause, so they can make lifestyle and treatment decisions to get back to feeling like themselves.

Ultimately, entering perimenopause is an opportunity to celebrate your life and acknowledge the changes in your body. However, this doesn't mean we must simply endure persistent bothersome symptoms.