let’s get one thing clear. if you are reading this and asking yourself if you need to see a doctor, that is absolutely on point. perimenopause and post menopause are life phases. menopause is merely one day that marks the end of menstruation. so similar to puberty, these stages are not ailments and do not require women to seek medical attention.
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my own doctor, dr. julie durnan, a naturopathic doctor at restoration health clinic in north vancouver , offers the following list as a guideline for recognizing hormone balance in perimenopause and when you should see a doctor: heavy periods/longer flow, shorter cycles (less than every 25 days), sore, swollen or lumpy breasts, waking in the middle of the night, increased cramping, onset of night sweats, especially right before your period, new or increased migraines, new or increased premenstrual mood swings, or weight gain without changes to diet or exercise.
track your experiences. keeping a journal of how you are feeling will help you share your story and make it easier for your health care provider to find solutions that are right for you. note things like, when you noticed a change, how long it lasts and to what extent it’s disrupting your quality of life. for example, something like, “my periods have been easy all my life. however, for the last 8 months they have become so heavy that it’s impacting my ability to even exercise!”
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get informed. talk to friends, take a book out of the library, or attend a course or event with a reputable health care professional who can help curate and translate the best information and research on perimenopause, menopause & post menopause.
give perimenopause conversations the time they deserve. perimenopause is not simple, so give it the attention and space it deserves. if you are seeing a hormone expert or naturopath, the allotted appointment time is likely going to be in the 30 to 60 minute range. if you are seeing your family doctor, the appointment time will most likely be shorter, so be sure to mention the reason for the call in advance. say something like, “i’d like to talk about perimenopause during this appointment — specifically about [list any challenges or questions you might have].” if you feel you need more time, ask for it.
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looking for more? join me & dr. julie durnan, nd, for the ultimate guide to perimenopause, menopause & beyond september 3 or 17.
do you have a question about perimenopause, menopause or beyond? post it in our private online community or write to me shirley@menopausechicks.com