Perimenopause Has Taken Up Residency in My Body, and It’s Not Going Anywhere

Everything feels different in my body these days—everything is dry, from my hands to my hair, and yes, even my intimate areas. Despite slathering on creams and lotions, they no longer provide the hydration they once did. My usual Aries mood swings have escalated into something far more intense. I can’t simply blame my irritability on my zodiac sign anymore; I’m convinced it’s the onset of perimenopause. My body is clearly signaling that things are shifting, even my libido.

The Overwhelming Symptoms of Perimenopause: A Long List

To be honest, the array of symptoms I’m experiencing is overwhelming, and I’m not even sure which ones can be attributed to perimenopause or just a bad mood. Here’s a rundown of some common symptoms associated with this phase:

Hot Flashes: You may dismiss them as a bad day, but those sweaty moments can actually be an indicator of perimenopause. Hot flashes aren’t just reserved for menopause; they can occur during this transitional period too.
Irregular Periods: The menstrual cycle can become unpredictable, with some women experiencing cycles of 60 days or even periods every two weeks. It’s anything but fun.
Vaginal Dryness: Along with mood swings, many women face the uncomfortable reality of vaginal dryness—not just during intercourse but at other times too. This is why personal lubricants become essential.
Painful Intercourse: Dyspareunia, or painful intercourse, is often overlooked in discussions with healthcare providers. Increased dryness and thinning vaginal tissue contribute to discomfort, making intimacy a challenge for many women.
Decreased Libido: Lower levels of estrogen and testosterone can lead to a reduced sex drive. Some women also find it harder to achieve orgasm, and honestly, who doesn’t want to experience that?

A Surprising Symptom: Elevated Cholesterol Levels

Reaching perimenopause is significant, and according to my gynecologist, it can last up to ten years before menopause fully sets in. During this time, hormonal fluctuations can lead to unexpected changes, including rising cholesterol levels. Recently, I was taken aback by my latest blood work results showing an increase in LDL cholesterol. How could this happen? I maintain a balanced diet!

Adjusting my eating habits may help boost my HDL, the “good” cholesterol. According to WebMD, there are proactive steps women can take to manage some symptoms of perimenopause—like exercising regularly, quitting smoking, getting enough sleep, reducing alcohol intake, increasing calcium, and taking multivitamins. Essentially, it’s about prioritizing our health as we navigate this phase.

Embracing Acceptance

I could choose to ignore these changes (believe me, I want to), but I see this as a crucial moment to pay attention to my body. It’s not merely about the relief of no longer having a consistent period; I need to acknowledge my body’s needs. I’m reminded of a thought from Oprah about menopause: “Many women view this as an ending, but it’s a chance to reinvent yourself after years of focusing on others. This is your opportunity to clarify what matters to you and pursue it with dedication.”

Summary

Navigating perimenopause can feel overwhelming with its myriad of symptoms, including dryness, hot flashes, and hormonal shifts. As women experience these changes, it’s essential to pay attention to their health and well-being. Embracing this stage as an opportunity for self-reinvention can be empowering. For those looking for more information on pregnancy and home insemination, this resource offers great insights, and Make a Mom is an authority on at-home insemination kits.