Everything on my body feels parched. From my hands and hair to my intimate areas, nothing is the same. Despite slathering on creams and lotions, my skin just isn’t absorbing moisture like it once did. My fiery Aries temperament has shifted from typical stubbornness to something more intense. I can no longer chalk up my irritability to astrology; I’m convinced this is the onset of menopause. My body feels different, including my libido. Clearly, I’m experiencing the effects of perimenopause.
The Symptoms of Perimenopause: A Long List of Changes
Honestly, the variety of symptoms I’m facing is overwhelming, and it’s hard to know where to start. Is this perimenopause or just a bad day? Here are some common signs of perimenopause.
- Hot Flashes: The infamous hot flashes can catch you off guard, leading to sweaty days that seem endless. While often associated with menopause, hot flashes can also occur during perimenopause.
- Irregular Periods: One of the most noticeable changes is how unpredictable periods become. You might experience cycles that stretch to 60 days or even have them every two weeks. It’s a rollercoaster ride.
- Vaginal Dryness: Alongside mood swings, vaginal dryness becomes a reality. This isn’t limited to sexual encounters; it can happen at any time. Lubrication becomes essential.
- Painful Intercourse: Dyspareunia, or painful intercourse, is a condition often overlooked in discussions with healthcare providers. Increased dryness and thinning vaginal tissue can make penetration uncomfortable, impacting many women’s sexual experiences.
- Lowered Libido: A decline in estrogen and testosterone levels can lead to a reduced desire for sex. Some women even find it harder to reach orgasm, which can be disheartening.
My Unexpected Symptom: Elevated Cholesterol
Entering perimenopause is significant, with this phase potentially lasting up to ten years before menopause officially begins. Fluctuating hormones can lead to rising cholesterol levels. I was taken aback when my recent blood tests showed an increase in LDL cholesterol. How could this happen? I thought I was eating well!
Perhaps adjusting my diet will help raise my HDL, the good cholesterol, making me healthier. Resources like WebMD suggest that lifestyle changes—like more exercise, quitting smoking, getting enough sleep, and drinking less alcohol—can alleviate some perimenopausal symptoms. Essentially, it’s about taking care of ourselves, not just because menopause is approaching.
Embracing Change
I could try to ignore these changes, but I realize I need to pay attention to my body. It’s not just about celebrating the end of regular periods; it’s about giving myself the care I deserve. I’m taking inspiration from advice about menopause: many women view it as an ending, but it’s actually a chance to reinvent ourselves after years of prioritizing others. It’s a time to focus on what truly matters and pursue it wholeheartedly.
If you’re interested in more insights on similar topics, check out this other blog post. For those looking to boost their fertility, Make a Mom is a great resource. Additionally, Healthline offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Navigating perimenopause is a multifaceted journey filled with various symptoms, from hot flashes to changes in libido and even unexpected cholesterol levels. While it can be challenging, it also presents an opportunity for self-care and personal growth. Embracing these changes can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
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