Perimenopause: Now the Hot Topic of Conversation
All of a sudden I've noticed more and more of my peer group talking about "perimenopause." Normally it's to question if they might be experiencing it. I recently learned exactly how to test if you are or are not "in" this period of life. It's fast and easy to do.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when your hormone levels begin to fluctuate. It can last anywhere from a few months to several years. During this time, you may experience symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and changes in your menstrual cycle.
How Do I Know if I'm in Perimenopause?
To determine if you're in perimenopause, watch this video from my favorite online Doctor, Dr. Peter Attia. Summary: test your FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) levels on day 3 of your period. If your FSH levels are heightened, you're in perimenopause. You can order an online hormone test for around $100 to check your levels (I'll find a link and put here in future). I plan to start doing this annually.
Why is HRT Important?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help alleviate symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. And it will help you not end up like this guys mom (which sadly may represent most of our moms).
If you're in perimenopause, you can now justify going to find a doctor who will help you get on HRT because you will be able to prove to them that you need it. No more questioning.
Why Isn't This Information More Accessible?
It's frustrating that information about perimenopause isn't more readily available, especially from our general practitioners. Let's change that by sharing this knowledge with our friends and loved ones.