Taking My Anxiety Seriously| Perimenopause
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- Опубліковано 1 жов 2024
- Todays vlog is very personal but my hope in sharing my journey is that it might help others! Too many of us suffer with a variety of medical conditions and put off getting help. This has been me too many times and I've made a promise to myself to take my wellness seriously!
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Did a little short with an update on how the meds are working! Perimenopausal and finally sleeping again!
ua-cam.com/users/shortsp4ln4qHK7XQ?feature=share
100% support to any woman to make her own health decisions! It is the height of arrogance and usually ignorance to think you know more and better about someone else's Health Care. Good luck to you!
I'm 45 and started Perimenopause early. It's been an experience. Thank you for talking openly because I am so angry that this is just disregarded as nothing! I was told for 2 years that it wasn't possible before they finally tested my hormones and said "Wow you're definitely far into it" 🤬 My Pcp told me some vitamin supplements that help some but my female gyno (best I've found after trying 3 others) won't put me on hrt or anything to help. I was already on anxiety meds and I'm now looking for a therapist because this is not The Way! I got a cronic illness Fall 2020 after cataract surgery so that factors in as well with problems getting blamed on anything other than the doctor I'm talking to. I do love my Primary doctor but these problems aren't in her field.
Sleep disturbances definitely make everything that’s going on health wise worse. Anxiety meds are nothing to be afraid of so thank you for talking about these things.
Thank you for talking about this...no one does. I really didn't associate my anxiety with perimenopause, but it makes sense. I need to make an appointment, but I hope my doctor will listen.
Hopefully your doctor is a woman that totally understands menopausal issues. I wish you the very best luck.
If a doctor doesn't listen, leave.
Thank you! I am 46, and started this season of my life, i.e. perimenopause, about three years ago. Anxiety, feelings of dread, aches, sleep disruptions (3am was my I'm awake hour), pins and needles in my hands, flushing, and morning stomach woozy. I am on meds for the anxiety, and am working with my OBGYN in consideration of HRT, and recently discovered I am significantly vitamin D deficient. This is more than likely adding to the anxiety, aches and pains... Godspeed on your journey. Thank you again for putting this crucial information out into the world. Cheers!
Yes! I think every woman going through this wakes up at 3am every morning.
I started Peri at 38 and was lucky enough to find a certified menopausal clinician. He got me through it and with my sanity intact. Hang in there. This will pass. And seriously, being a woman is not for the weak!!!
Me too!
@@madelinewoodard319 how did you get through it
I’ve struggled with anxiety most of my life (hello childhood traumas) and I suffered through the worst of it when I was post partum with my son. It’s so hard to struggle with that everyday feeling of everything is heavy, unsafe, etc. sending love and hugs and thank you for your vulnerability❤️
Clutching my pearls here Jen! 🤣
So proud of your bravery in handling concerns head-on! Many would just push it aside and say it’ll go away… good for you! And I loved how you subtly worked in the push for voting empowerment. ❤ Have a great trip!
I went through menopause at 38… the anxiety is very real… I’m so glad I’m on a good medical regimen now!
What do you take? I’m on progesterone cream for a week and still having bad anxiety.
I don’t know what to do anymore.
Me too!
Beware of uterine biopsies because they are extremely painful. I suffered serious trauma a few months ago. I needed to be sedated during this procedure. The pain was unbelievable, I was in shock and I am suffering from PTSD right now. It was horrific.
For the life of me, I do not understand why they do not sedate you or at least offer some sort of anesthetic. Health care for women is important and we deserve the best. Same thing with an IUD insertion. Once you go down the rabbit hole, you realize how traumatic these procedures are for women. Forewarned is fore-armed.
Thank you for this so much. I’ve always struggled with anxiety but it feels worse now. I’m a couple years older than you. I mentioned it to my GP and she put in a note/order for me to find counseling which I haven’t made time to do. Your words were a good reminder to prioritize me.
Another symptom to be aware of is extremely heavy periods sometimes with nausea and vomiting.
Jen…I am literally suffering with the same miserable symptoms…disturbed sleep and increased anxiety. And of course disturbed sleep makes the anxiety worse. I am intrigued that you have heard that the progesterone can make a big difference with sleep. My only concern with taking hormone replacement would be weight gain. I will also be making an appointment with my primary care. I couldn’t get my annual gynecologist appointment until October!
Progesterone is awesome! Been taking it for 5 years. Has improved my sleep, mood and severely reduced hot flashes. Good luck!
I haven’t reached that phase of my life yet, so I don’t have a story of my own to share, but I’m so grateful to you for sharing your story with us. ❤❤❤
Have fun on (foreal) vacation Jen! Haha .Appreciate your transparency on your health - it’s so important to do what is best for us. Also I have that same”home” mug! I love it hehe.
Hearing about your anxiety helped me realize I had it too. It has gotten better. I sympathize with you and hope your situation improves soon. I like your physician’s approach. Also, regular voter here.
I think what convinced my doctor to put me on HRT was when I told her the distractibility and lack of focus had caused me to run a red light…twice. So to avoid killing or injuring myself or someone else, she gave me a prescription. Funny that all my other symptoms, that made my life miserable, didn’t seem to matter. You shouldn’t have to be miserable!! I’m glad you’re talking about menopause so openly, it’s never discussed, and I remember how scary it was when I started going through it. Education is important, keep talking, it’s a great public service. 😃
I'm in my 30s and decided to take control of my health in the past couple of years. Going on medication for my anxiety and ADHD was the best thing I have ever done for myself. The difference in how I feel is night and day. I only wish I did this two decades ago.
I was the same for a while but if you stop completely Starbucks for at least 1 month your anxiety will improve.
Lol well I’ll tell you Christine I’ve been drinking coffee since I’m 16 and this only started a few years ago but thanks for that 😂
I have all of the same symptoms, but my Dr just brushes everything off as "normal for my age" so I'm looking for a new one!!! I'm 55 and tired of Dr's around here just glossing over things. Feeling like I'm out of sync with my own mind/body and not knowing how/if I can fix it just causes more anxiety for me! Good luck on your journey with your heath and have a fantastic vacation!!!
I'm 47 and have been dealing with all these symptoms for a couple of years now. Big hugs and solidarity. (Also, I'm actively watching the video, so Idk if you discussed this -- but Vitamin D deficiency is a huge issue in perimenopause/menopause. A good chunk of my most intense symptoms have been exacerbated by low Vit D levels.)
I went into surgical menopause when I had a total hysterectomy at age 37, my ovaries came out as they were the guys causing most of my problems. So yeahhhh the dryness, omg makes me crazy, and the sleep......ugh makes me crazy, I legit solve all the worlds problems at like 3am every day lol. I'm 55 now so 18 years of menopause now and nope hasn't gotten any better. I have tried hormones and for me, it hasn't made a difference but for many it does. For vaginal dryness they do have hormone creams you insert that work failrly well but I honestly am not the best at consistenly using it. ALl I can say is YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!! You do you Jenn, 100% every woman's menopause journey is different. You gotta figure out what works best for you. I'm 18yrs in and still haven't figured out what works, its an ever changing thing. I mean cmon people, we birthed the children, why can't the men be the ones that have menopause and give us a break!!! lol
I’m 44 and recently started experiencing the perimenopause symptoms. The waking up at 2am, the cold night sweats, feeling like crying all the time and full of anxiety and feeling overwhelmed. I’m going to make an appointment with my doctor. Glad I found this video and know I’m not going crazy and other women are going thru this too. ❤
I'm so happy I could help!! Good luck - we are in this together!
Anxiety can be a beast. I've suffered with it as well. To anyone watching this video please take the advice to visit your doctor. Do not let embarrassment or anything else stop you. There is help out there.
Thank you! I have PTSD from things that happened when I lived in Venezuela. It’s no fun! Anxiety is a beast and I decided to go on meds and it gave me my life back😊 So glad you are doing what feels right for you!😊
I totally love the rules you put forward for commenting, it’s 100% what I feel (but I would not have the confidence to say that to anyone). P.s. you use lactose intolerant tablets like Gary C (Adam’s friend)?😂🤣
Your flamingo toiletry bag! I'm obsessed with flamingoes so that's fantastic. So, the perimenopause anxiety is NO JOKE. I found myself randomly frozen and barely able to breath from it. Thankfully it didn't last long for me, but then the hot flashes started. They were strong and coming on every 20 minutes, no lie. I would sit in depositions and watch the clock and know one would be coming. I couldn't take it anymore and did go on bioidentical hormone replacement until recently. I feel like my migraines were subsiding BEFORE I went on the HRT, but they started coming back really, really bad, so I just a few months ago dropped the HRT. The hot flashes are back, but not as bad, so they're manageable, and my migraines also seem to be better. And yes, I don't sleep anymore unless I take something. It seems to be a evolving journey. Glad for you to have taken your first steps!
Anxiety is no joke. My husband would like to bound and gag me. You are so brave. Thank you soooo much for sharing.
Congratulations for taking control of your anxiety! Whatever you need to do is going to be good for you. Keep an open mind and continue to discuss your issues with your doctor. FYI, I genuinely enjoy your videos!🎉
I am 55 have OCD and perimenopause has made my symptoms so much worse. I take antidepressant as well as estradiol and progesterone
Hi Jen, I love both of your channels! I started watching the first one when you were taking your gap year and have just been hooked! I am living vicariously through you (teacher work schedule makes travel a little tighter when things are affordable/less crowded and the nest is not QUITE empty yet)--so you are my inspiration. I wanted to share 2 stories--regarding your doggie, we just put our 14 years young Golden on arthritis meds (truly had taken him in for a "quality of life assessment" he was was doing so poorly and prepared to walk out with an empty leash), and 2 months later he is doing AMAZING! He beats his younger "brother" , our Collie, up each day now and looks so proud of himself. Hopefully your sweet girl will feel better soon. For peri-menopause, I'm 49 and just started taking HRT about 2 years ago. I did a lot of research and was started on estrogen first (I use a patch because I want something that travels through my body and doesn't put stress on my liver) and it made a lot of improvements for me. I had never struggled with mental health issues and was experiencing anxiety, I had joint pain (my gen practitioner felt it was arthritis and I was trying to put off meds for that as long as I could since they are hard on your kidneys long term), heart palpitations (I was seriously worried and seeing a cardiologist), and complete dryness making intimacy very painful. I went primarily for the dryness--and I was shocked to discover that taking estrogen (I take a bioidentical one personally) helped all these other symptoms (joint pain, heart palpitations, and for me the anxiety) as well. The one thing it did not help with was sleep. I could fall asleep but would wake up at 3AM and couldn't get back to sleep...I ended up seeing a new doc (mine was on vacation) last check in and she suggested progesterone....OMG...amazing...it is the magic pill for me. Now I fall right asleep and STAY asleep. Good luck to you--and I hope it is the pixie dust for you that it has been for me. The one I am taking is from a compounded pharmacy, they ship it to me from Oregon, I've been told this is more effective than the synthetic (although this one is not covered by insurance and synthetic is), but I have never tried the other and I love the sleep so much, I'm just sticking to this! I agree with others vitamin D is huge too--I started feeling anxious again in December, thought my Estrogen had stopped working--and got tested and sure enough was just low on D. I supplement now. Good luck, and PLEASE keep talking, and encouraging others to talk, about menopause, I feel like our generation is doing such a better job at that than previous ones where it was just taboo. I keep learning more and more each day..!
I got to experience a sense of dread, poor sex life, gift brain and weight gain. I'm on bio identical HRT and it's so much better!
Thank you for doing this. I have experience all the symptoms you and others have expressed. The most terrifying was waking up at 2:00 am thinking it was anxiety or panics attacks but after tests and me educating myself it turned out it was Hormones. Perimenopause was driving me crazy. The most scary and the one people do not bring up or confuse with anxiety is Heart PALPITATIONS. I Thought I was having a heart attack my primary wanted to diagnose me with anxiety panic attacks but sent me to cardiologist. Cardiologist did Eco, heart monitor and my heart is healthy and strong. He was the first to tell me; it’s hormones. Then Oprah started talking how heart palpitations is another thing she experienced. So went to OBGYN and sure enough. Now I am in treatment, exercising, dieting and medications and I sleep well, my heart is fine:, no more palpitations. I feel like another woman 😊
Also in YT Menopause Taylor was a wonderful resource for information. I am thankful and pray 🙏🏼 to survive this season of my life. I see you as one of those woman that is graceful and fit. Love your videos.
I can so relate to your story. Almost exact to a T as what I am struggling with now.
I was going to mention Oprah Daily did a great episode on peri menopause/menopause.
❤️Good for you!🤗Totally agree, yes I’m registered to vote❤️It gets better, hang in there ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I also had an endometrial ablation in 2014 to stop my super heavy and painful periods. The GYNO who performed the surgery said it was a success and I haven’t had a period since. The downside is you’re never really sure when you’ve reached full menopause. My hormones have been tested but the results fluctuate so even now at 58 I am still not sure if I’ve reached menopause yet. I had terrible anxiety and panic disorder that began shortly after my early retirement from teaching and the ablation surgery. Because my hormones didn’t show that I was a candidate for hormone therapy I went with conventional antidepressants/anti-anxiety medications as well as talk therapy. They truly gave me my life back.
I found that taking the herb Black Cohosh calms me. But it might not be for everyone. I believe medication is the last resort.
So glad you are making your whole health a priority. I am a few years ahead of you and also have Hashimotos which affects my gut and that affects anxiety. Not easy but it can be managed with caring health practitioners and continuous self care. Vacations are a very important Rx. Enjoy 👏💗🙏
Such a timely video, I am seeing my doctor this week about peri menopause and just getting everything checked and in order. Hope you are having an amazing relaxing vacation!
Sorry you’ve been suffering Jen. Good you are on the road to better. I didn’t know your husband surfed! It looks so hard, I am impressed. Hope you enjoyed your vacation.
Just sharing my story: and yes everyone has to do what’s best for them! I have Hashimotos and suffer from anxiety and depression on and off over the years. I believe it’s hormonal imbalance that causes both. One doctor wanted to put me on anti depressants and I refused because just knew it was thyroid hormone problem and asked him to change my thyroid medication from Synthroid (levothyroxine, a synthetic ) to Natural Desiccated thyroid instead. He refused and I found another doctor that would. OMG what a world of difference it made like night and day. Long story short Synthroid is just T4 hormone and it works for many but not for some of us. Natural Desiccated thyroid meds( I take NPThyroid) which is T4 & T3 hormones and makes a huge difference for some people. That being said once I hit menopause it reeked havoc on my hormones again and had to have my thyroid meds adjust. It was all I’ve the place for awhile. Now that I’m post menopausal it seems to have subsided. Knock on wood. It’s my belief (from researching it) that it’s lack of T4 or T3 or both that causes the anxiety and depression. Look into it, do your own research for those with thyroid issues 💜
Thanks for your honesty and vulnerability ❤️. Anxiety is hard! So is peri menopause❤️😂❤️. I’m glad your taking care of you!
Safe travels on your vacation! Enjoy your time off. We love you. Thank you for what you do :). Truly! And thanks for sharing you ☺️
Hi Jen, thanks so much for sharing! I have struggled with hormonal imbalances since I was 18. I appreciate your vulnerability and that you press on! You keep moving and you take it one step at a time. Appreciate you! ❤
Menopause is such a joy
Happy that you are doing what’s best for you and that’s what’s important.
For me it has been the insomnia and the lack of patience…what a combo 😂
My family has been lovingly warned to stay away 😂
100% I went on medicine last year and it was a life saver…excited about my upcoming hysterectomy that I advocated for.
100% support you!! My anxiety has been medically controlled and it was the best decision for me. You are your best health advocate. Enjoy your vacation!❤
Know you are not alone in going through any of this, but your process is unique to you. (aka--been there, done that) Hugs and warm thoughts to you---and your menagerie!
Just signed up for your newsletter! I don't know how I missed that you have one. Loved this vlog and your honesty. Have a great time on vacation.
Enjoy your vacation. It's good to get a break from everyday routine once in a while. The older I get the more of these breaks I take. Looking forward to your newsletters. Take care ❤
You are a hoot! I started menopause when I was 40 after many years of infertility-then started the sleep problems and anxiety I had my entire life. About 10 years ago, I went to the GP and finally told him about my sleep issues and he started me on Lexapro low dose. This has made a huge difference in my life! My anxiety has decreased tremendously. I suffered for so many years telling myself I didn’t need to take a pill. Please listen to your body and know there are meds that will help you. I am now 64 and retired and feeling great. I sometimes still do have sleeping issues but not nearly like in the past.
I haven't slept a full night in a LONG time due to this. I heard giving up sugar may help? I still haven't tried that yet...its a struggle!
I’m a big fan of the meds I started five years ago! Now I’m also dealing with the 3am wake-up and morning nausea. Time to book an appointment, thanks for the inspiration!
I’ve just found your channel in the last two weeks, and you are a gem! I’ve found that when I don’t sleep properly due to perimenopause, my anxiety really ramps up. I am on Divigel and progesterone-that has helped me a ton.
Thank you for sharing Jen!! I appreciate your channel so much!
Hi. Just now watched this video. How are you doing with new meds?
I love that you made this video on this specific topic! It is so important to share! Enjoy your vacation!
It's so important to advocate for your health and to do what is right for you.
Have a wonderful vacation!
My anxiety has been manageable, but it is real. The disappointing thing is that the night sweats are still with me 3 years post menopause!
I wish you nothing but the best - many blessings and be well!
You are amazing! As a 60 year old woman that has been thru much of this I am grateful to you for talking about it and helping other women. And yes, vote.
Just going through a lot of doctor changes and medication shifts, myself. It's driving me a bit crazy. My med study for my kidneys suddenly stopped last week (they just pulled the study - no warning - and it was VERY upsetting!) and my new GP wants me off my birth control I've been on for 18 years and fussed at me, even though I was unaware it was harmful at 49 - so I'm not liking the repertoire with new Dr and I may be searching . . . AGAIN! 🙄 And the psychologist I've seen for my anxiety for 15 years is retiring and guess what? That's causing me anxiety, right when I'm already having anxiety about my one and only kiddo leaving for college! I feel like a mess. So, watching your videos (here and on your travel channel) helps me tremendously. Thank you for bringing comfort and JOY into my life. Comfort and JOY - maybe you feel like Christmas and that's why I like you. 😊
You are such an inspiration, Jen. Best to you and to sweet Sadie!
I'm in perimenopause now. Brain fog, anxiety, random heavy bleeds, depression..... Ugh.
knowing what my Mom went thru initially on HRT I started looking into Mitigation/Management measure both Chemical & "Natural" that did not involve HRT. but that is what is right for my body. I have no opion on what will work for other women. Except Voting. You should Always VOTE!
Hugs, post menopausal. Went through similar, was on medication that really helped me get over that hump. Now I’m over the menopause rainbow and 100% feel better.
So glad you consulted your Dr, which I had gone earlier in the process. I suffered progressively for a few years before I sought help.
Thanks!
After having an oopharectomy I took hormones for 2 1/2 years as n Inwenrbinto surgical menopause 1 week after the procedure. Never felt so good. Highly recommend.
I'm 24 and pregnant with my first. I've dealt with anxiety a lot in the past and was on medications for a while. I tapered off of them and it was very very hard for me. Lots of panic attacks and hyperventilating etc. I had severe health anxiety and doom feelings all of the time. Even in this pregnancy I have some. (I would never harm myself or others).
I did lots of blood work and found I was iron deficient and had a vitamin D deficiency as well. I have since corrected those and feel a lot better but I know with hormones and me getting ready to have a baby, anything could change so I'm mentally preparing for my options.
I just recently got all of my vaccines updated and plan on after having the baby discussing anxiety medications with my Dr if things persist which I assume they will. No shame what so ever!
I am in the midst of trying to change up my sleep schedule (sounds like I’m 3 months, but no 48) because my mini poodle has decided that 5 or 5:30am is a fabulous wake-up time (she’s 12) and my body has decided that morning is anytime after 4am. So I am tryin to go to bed by 9:30 to get a bit of extra sleep, sometimes it works…. Anyway have a FABULOUS vacation!
I will be 46 in 2 weeks , and my primary doctor keeps telling me all my labs are normal , absolutely not I tell him for one year I have been having hot flashes, no sleep , chills, fatigue, daily sex drive low low , I have an IUD I said maybe it’s that my body possible rejection , menstrual ridiculous I maybe am not bloody mary 10 days a Month , which in 2021 I had to connivence my primary doctor I need iron infusion . anyhow my list is way to long, but once again 1-8-2024 all my numbers are normal !! I disagree!! I message my Ob of course looked at my labs said everything is normal,
Anyhow now I am ready to go to hormone specialist . Both my doctor’s are men at this point I feel they are just putting me to aside as a
WW-Whining Woman!
Hormones fluctuate drastically throughout the month so it’s almost impossible to know where you are in menopause from a blood test. My female obgyn confirmed this on my last visit (where are my labs were normal AND she prescribed me progesterone)
@@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge Thank you so much for responding! ❤️ wow so what shall I do next look for a new OB or doctor to help me you think? I have an appt to remove my IUD as well, also I already take sleep meds and I still wake up 3
Hrs after I take like WTH! I am starting to get so agitated , I spend hours on couch looking for remedies, I started taking supplements already for menopause even thou both doctors think I am no way in perimenopause I started taking meno (the brand) gummies and also estroven supplements, seems to be helping a little less I now have no hot flashes or sweats. But insomnia is crazy! Oh also started taking magnesium about 30 days ago.
@@sandragutierrez4592 I would get a new doctor personally. It’s surprising to me he didn’t even know that hormones fluctuate throughout the month. Although the lack of training they receive in medical school about menopause is shocking.
I feel you. I'm actually going through it right now. I had to have an emergency full hysterectomy in March. I came WAY too close to dying in January and March. So, I'm glad that I'm no longer in danger of bleeding to death. And my OBGYN gave me the choice in April at my follow up to take medication or not because I was already feeling depression and anxiety creeping up on me. Well, because of my mental state (it got SIGNIFICANTLY worse) and some physical problems, I've been on medication for a few days now and I'm already starting to feel a little better. Hang in there, as will I. My heart goes out to you and I'm wishing you the best. Have fun on your trip.
You're Awesome 😊! I love you. You know your body. You do you especially if your quality of life is starting to have more thumbs down days. Take care and sending vibes of health, peace, and happiness.
One month from today I will be boarding a flight for a month long trip to Europe! First time going over there. Paris, Madrid, Lisbon, Berlin & the Netherlands. Maybe a few other places along the way.
Good for you for being so open about this Jen. It's madness to me that billions of women experience this (often after decades of difficult menstrual periods too!) and so few talk about it. Women shouldn't have to live like this just because it's a 'fact of life.' I'm pleased your OBGYN took your concerns seriously as that can make all the difference.
The sleep disturbance and anxiety is no joke! I’m the same way-fall asleep no problem then wake up sometime between 2:30-3:30 am . At that point I either fall back within 30 min and then wake up every hour after that, or I’m awake for or 90 min+ and then fall back hard about 30 min before alarm goes off.
Jen, I very suddenly began having anxiety, and panic attacks while pregnant years ago. Clueless as to why. So during an ER visit sometime later, not for that reason, a nurse made an offhand comment; that such attacks very often tie to Hashimotos Thyroiditis! That, and sleep apnea, both of which I have. Menopause factors in, too. Who knew? Anyway, treatment for both did the trick. Anxiety is the pits. There's help, whatever the cause. Smart people get that help😊❤
Thank you for sharing your nerves and journey. You are helping normalize these discussions. What one goes through can be multifaceted. Here is a recommendation for a book that provides tools to help with anxiety. Calming the Emotional Storm by Sheri Van DIJK, MSW. These are such complex issues and seem so hopeless and frustrating at times. I hope it helps anyone that might need some mechanisms to help with the nerves and worry. Have a lovely beach vacation and rest. Thank you again for being vulnerable and giving others courage to talk about their experiences too. Also, i cant wait to try the hack about the sand.
My OBGYN told me the only thing I can do is change my diet. I have done that, but still having hot flashes and night sweats.
Is progesterone the same as hormone replacement therapy? Or is that something different. I think I need something to help me.
It’s a step down from true HRT and something that my dr wants us to try before full HRT - and yes find a new doctor (I say this with nothing but empathy as someone who has been told far too many times that I just have to deal with it)
@@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge Thank you!!🥹
We're on the same wave length again.. My daughter is showing up with anxiety, sleep disturbances. Not premenopause, but I am suggesting she sees a psychiatrist; which is so not like me. There is a chewable gummy that helps with falling asleep, but can't get her to try it. The BEST thing is your trying to get help. Everybody needs a helping hand every once in awhile.
Jen, yes yes! 😍 I'm so glad I checked with my OBGYN when my body got weird on me last year. Something *was* wrong and it *was* fixable and WOW am I glad I didn't chalk it up to just an aging thing.
I had to go on something for a couple of years. I was going from 0-I’m going to rip your head off in 2 seconds. Which is not me. My NP asked me before I started going into menopause if I was having anxiety. I said yes I do from time to time. She told me women as we get older experience more anxiety. So, I have some medication for that, that I barely use. I am glad to have it when I need it.
I found that taking 10 mg of Medroxyprogesterone once a week has really helped me. It's a good place to start and you can build up to what makes you feel your best. I was dealing with some serious depression and low mood. I was irritated, paranoid and anxious , couldn't sleep deeply , brain fog, really bad cramps when I wake up in the morning like I'm on my period. It's such a calming hormone and so helpful.
I had a hysterectomy at 39 ( had no money at the time for HRT ) so not sure if /when I peri menopause began but believe I am through the worst of the menopause symptoms. Although I never sleep! I just told my PCP yesterday that I am feeling very anxious, all the time, but neither he nor I connected it to menopause!! He didn’t even suggest a med for me ! I had been contemplating finding a female that specializes in this stage of life ( now 63) and after reading these comments I am going to pursue a different physician, mine is retiring at the end of the year do the timing is right !
Thank you for talking about this, no one really does and that’s a shame.
Thanks again !
Regarding Sadie: My dog’s story- We put her on a newer arthritis medication (forgot the name). She improved almost immediately. Then about a month later, she quit eating, unless given treats and coaxed and this was a dog that scarfed down anything because she had Cushing’s. She also started having diarrhea multiple times a day. Because of her Cushing’s, her age, and not eating ( eating was her joy in life) , and chronic diarrhea, we decided it was time to put her down. I offered the leftover arthritis medicine to a neighbor whose dog was on the same , but she said that she had to stop the medication because of the side effects -her dog quit eating and had diarrhea! The symptoms that convinced me it was time to let our dog go were just side effects of the arthritis medication. The bad side effects didn’t show up until a month after starting the medication with both of our dogs. But my neighbor was smart enough to figure it out, I wasn’t. The vet said nothing about potential side effects. Just a warning that changes that start as long as a month later might be from the arthritis meds.😢
😢 so sorry about the loss of your dog. My heart goes out to you.
Is that previcox by any chance? Condolences on your dog.
@@deannahoffman5177 Sorry, I don’t remember. This was about 4 years ago.
@@LibraryAngel Thank you! My consolation is that with the Cushing’s, arthritis, her not tolerating the Rx for the arthritis, and her age, maybe it was time anyway. It is always a hard decision.
Thank you for being open about your anxiety! ESPECIALLY about giving women thw power overvtheuf body. Its important that 1. When given rhe privilege, we should go to a medical professional and 2. At the end of the day, women have the choice of how thet deal with anxiety.
At the end of the day, as long as research has been performed to make an informed decision about someone's personal health- thats the best we can do.
My obgyn was not able to do much for me…but hormone clinic has been life changing! You deserve the best quality of life you can get. And why is none of this covered by insurance???
So glad that you are addressing this and talking about it!!! Hopefully it help you! Loling at your dogs eating celery.
Started this process a few years ago. Recently I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. Just kind of being told by my therapist what was going on seemed to help. So glad I took the time to start therapy, because it’s definitely helping. Praying the meds work for you! 🙏🏽 And hope your are having a great trip!!
I am loving your channel. You are so authentic. I am a travel advisor and your travel advice is spot on. Perimenopause kicked my ass! I am out the other side. No anxiety, but horrible sleep, hot flashes, and feeling on edge. Husband thought I was a mean monster. Dryness like I’ve never experienced in my life. I had oily skin my whole life, so it was like relearning my skincare all over again. I have tried estrogen cream, but it’s messy, so I might check options. So glad I found your channel.
Thank you for sharing. 47 and went through menopause a couple of years ago.....had no idea that anxiety was a part of that!!!!
Need to talk with my Dr. again!
Jen I feel your pain, I have been really suffering with the peri menopause for about 10 years now, things have been really bad, anxiety, mood swings, joint pain, broken sleep, weight gain, skin problems, gynaecology problems, hot flushes, exhaustion you name it and I have that menopause symptom. 2 weeks ago I couldn't take any more and I asked my Doctor to prescribe me some HRT patches its early days but I really hope they give me some relief soon. I hope the medication you have chosen helps you soon, have a great holiday and please let us know how you are getting on. Much love from the UK xxx
Jenn. Thanks so much for talking about this. I am currently dealing with making similar decisions as I walk this journey for myself. Very interested in how this goes for you.
Good for you! Love your transparency and your good human values. Sadly, both are lacking in our society these days! Take care of YOU!
"She didn't say anything about tequila." I snort laughed. I love how you embrace life's challenges with humor, friend. Adore you! Hoping your received all the rest and worry-free experiences you deserve!
The anxiety is real, I confess that I lost a job because of it, not a good one but.... My regular doctor and I had a decision about it. Anxiety meds is working and I notice when I am not taking it.. I hope your on the right path with what you and your doctor discussed and it helps you. Have a Fantastic relaxing safe trip.
Thank you so much for sharing your process regarding this issue, it is so helpful!! i LOLed at "im a hard stick" cuz I am too and had blood drawn this morning and the nurse asked me which arm they usually use and I said "they usually go back and forth a couple times, then tell me that i have tiny veins, then they get the butterfly needle..." great video as usual!
I hope the meds work for you and that you come back from vacation feeling well rested. I found supplements to be helpful in dealing with my anxiety.
Thank you for sharing this. I am in my late 40s, and decided this is the year to really focus on my mental health. I don’t know why I waited so long. Ugh.
But - bygones.
I hope your regimen works really well for you.