Products are independently selected by our editors.
We may earn an affiliate commission from links.
Lately, all I do is talk about perimenopause and the injustice of womens health care.
Photo: Unsplash
(Ive been a whole lot of fun to be around.)
As our eggs dwindle, our estrogen and progesterone levels also start to lower.
This is perimenopause, and you might begin to notice whats called the change as early as 35.
From there, youll likely develop one of the more than 50 different symptoms of perimenopause.
The vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes and night sweats) are the ones that get all the publicity.
My perimenopause journey began with a frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis.
I literally could not pull up my own pants without assistance.
I knew I didnt feel like myself and wanted to know what was happening to me.
But get thisnot once during that time did any of my doctors mention my hormones.
After that, things began to clarify.
And I was pissed.
I got maybe an hour lecture in medical school about menopause, Haver said.
In residency, I got about six hours out of a four-year curriculum.
Even with this information, federal funding for menopause research has been little to none.
I am doing blood work but rarely a hormone panel in perimenopause, says Dr. Haver.
But most of the time, the lab work is normal and it is perimenopause.
Still suffering, I went to a different gynecologist, who recommended genetic cancer testing.
I couldnt imagine what its like for those who dont.
I chose Midi because it focuses specifically on menopause care and accepts many different types of insurance.
In the end, I chose hormone therapy.
Unfortunately, this isnt the standard level of care most women get during this time.
(Perimenopause can last 10 years!)
And every woman deserves to have doctors who are well educated on perimenopause.
But if your doctor dismisses your concerns or simply doesnt listenthats a red flag to seek another professional.
Youre the best advocate for your health until you find the perfect partner to help you.
