It feels like perimenopause has set up camp in my body, and it shows no signs of leaving. Everything seems to be drying out — my skin, my hair, even my intimate areas have changed dramatically. Moisturizers used to work wonders, but now they barely make a dent. My usual Aries temperament has evolved into something more challenging. I can no longer attribute my mood swings to my zodiac sign; it’s clear to me that perimenopause is in full swing. My body is signaling that things are different now, including my interest in intimacy.
The Many Symptoms of Perimenopause
Honestly, the list of strange symptoms I’m experiencing is overwhelming, and I often find myself questioning whether it’s perimenopause or simply a rough patch. Here are some of the most common indicators of this transitional phase:
Hot Flashes
Perimenopause can bring sudden waves of heat that are often mistaken for just a bad day. While hot flashes are commonly associated with menopause, they can also appear during perimenopause.
Irregular Periods
The body undergoes numerous changes, with periods and ovulation becoming unpredictable. One month could bring a cycle of 60 days, while the next might surprise you with a period every two weeks. Joyful times ahead!
Vaginal Dryness
Along with mood swings, another well-known reality is vaginal dryness, which can be problematic not just during intimacy but at other times as well. This is where lube becomes essential.
Painful Intercourse
Dyspareunia, or painful intercourse, is often overlooked in discussions surrounding reproductive health. Increased dryness and thinning vaginal tissues can lead to discomfort, making intimacy painful for many women, with reports indicating that 17-45% of menopausal women experience this.
Lowered Libido
A decrease in sexual desire is common as estrogen and testosterone levels drop. Many women also notice challenges in reaching orgasm, which can be quite frustrating.
Surprising Symptom: Increased Cholesterol
Entering perimenopause is significant, and it can last up to ten years before menopause fully arrives. Many women find their cholesterol levels rising during this time. I was startled to see my recent blood work showing elevated LDL cholesterol compared to last year. How could this happen? I’m careful with my diet! Perhaps improving my HDL levels with dietary changes will help. According to WebMD, lifestyle adjustments like increased exercise, quitting smoking, and better sleep can alleviate some perimenopausal symptoms.
Embracing the Change
I could try to ignore these changes (and I often want to), but I realize that my body is trying to tell me something important. It’s not just about the relief of not having a regular period; I need to pay attention to what my body needs. Taking inspiration from Oprah, I see this phase as a chance to reinvent myself after years of prioritizing others. Now it’s time to focus on what truly matters to me.
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Summary
Navigating perimenopause can feel like an overwhelming journey filled with unexpected changes. From hot flashes and irregular periods to increased cholesterol and emotional shifts, it’s essential to listen to our bodies and embrace this stage as an opportunity for self-discovery and growth.
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