One thing I did NOT know until I was in its midst, is that menopausal symptoms begin in perimenopause, the transitional years before our periods stop, around age 42. So if your periods are wonky, your moods even wonkier, and your cannot remember what (or if) you ate breakfast, do not despair. You are likely beginning the transition. I promise it gets better!
Uplifting Quotes:
- “Life doesn’t end with menopause; it’s the beginning of a new adventure. Strap in and enjoy the ride!” – Helen Mirren, actor
- “Menopause is like a finely aged wine – it gets better with time.” – Unknown
- “Menopause is like autumn leaves falling; it’s a natural shedding of the old to make way for the new.” – Patricia Akins, author
Articles:
Not feeling like myself” in perimenopause — what does it mean? This article, published in May 2024, by the Journal of the Menopause Society, revealed that a google search of “I don’t feel like myself” and “perimenopause” yielded 5.3 million results. Were you one of them ? :). Read the common “not myself” experiences of women.
The Biggest Menopause Conference Just Ended. These Are the Takeaways You Need to Know. Read Meghan Rabbitt’s interview of Dr. Jen Gunter, where they discuss misinformation and clarify must knows. Another great article compliments of Maria Shriver’s Sunday Paper.
Reliable (i.e., not google) Websites for Menopause Info:
There is a lot of menopause info at our fingertips but some are related to products and endorsements. Be discerning about where you get your information to ensure it is not biased or agenda-based.
The Menopause Society – read unbiased facts, evidence-based research, and certified practitioners to help with menopause.
The International Menopause Society – the international version of the Menopause Society. Isn’t it awesome that there exists in International community dedicated to menopause?
Books: There are so many good (and not so good) ones but here are a few recommendations:
The Menopause Brain by Dr. Lisa Masconi. I’ve recommended this book in the past but it is too good not to mention again. It will blow your mind – pun intended.
The Wisdom of Menopause, 4th edition, by Dr. Christian Northrup – an oldie but timeless goody.
Embrace the Middle by yours truly. Did you know that my book and business were inspired by a hot flash? This book includes a mindful how to manage menopause.
On the Screen:
The M-Factor launched on October 18th, World Menopause Day. You can stream it for free from PBS. And, for any of you medical doctors, you can actually earn continuing education credits for watching it. AMAZING!