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Perimenopause
I am not an expert on perimenopause. However, the whole idea of perimenopause did not hit me until my period became irregular. During my annual ob/GYN visit last year, I remember my doctor saying over time taking “birth control pills will cause more harm than good”. After I started taking pills three years ago, I realized what she meant by that statement.
Irregular Periods
In July, my period started and it was a continuous nuisance. After consulting with my doctor, she suggested I double up on my birth control pills. This was a temporary remedy and my period started again. Next, I tripled up on my birth control pills and this was ineffective too. I talked to my OB/GYN about options and she suggested a few alternatives beyond the birth control pill.
IUD/Endometrial Ablation
One option was an IUD which I considered but decided may give me the same results as my birth control pills. Next, she suggested endometrial ablation which was a new procedure for me to consider. It involves a quick in-hospital procedure in which heat is applied to my endometrial lining to reduce my periods and in some cases stop them altogether. After researching as my doctor instructed I felt this was a possible option. This procedure prevents pregnancy and at fifty this is perfect news. I believe selecting healthcare options should be done on an individual basis as we have different goals.
Cyclic Progesterone
Lastly, my OB/GYN suggested I try cyclic progesterone. This required me to take two hundred milligrams of progesterone for twenty-one days. Once I finish and my period starts again I am to start taking again on day fourteen of my period. I had to remind myself the first day of bleeding/spotting is day one. This treatment brought relief within three to four days. It taught me to always keep the line of communication open with my healthcare professionals. None of these symptoms are new but the number of options may lessen juggling the uncertainty.
Night Sweats
One common thing I have experienced is night sweats not hot flashes. I researched and started taking Vitamin E after consulting with my physician assistant. Since Vitamin E is a blood thinner I discussed during my OB/GYN visit and my doctor suggested taking every other day.
Weight Gain
As far as weight gain, I try to consistently workout each week at least two to three times. Strength training offers so many benefits specifically burning fat. My diet is better in terms of the type of foods I eat each week. I try to balance each meal with whole grains, good carbs, protein, veggies or fruit. Water consumption is a daily necessity. I know that processed and fast foods do not agree with me and or digestive tract. The saying you are what you eat definitely applies to me. I have learned to make better choices when it comes to how and why I eat certain foods.
Aging is inevitable but I am convinced by communicating with my healthcare professionals I can address what is needed. This journey has taught me to embrace each moment and never make assumptions when it comes to my health care.
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