Perimenopause

This year I turn 48. 

Approaching the Golden Age of Five-Oh.

As I become an 'elder' in physique (but not quite in wisdom, or behaviour, or mindset), the body changes and prepares itself for menopause. This stage is called perimenopause, although I often (incorrectly) refer to it as pre-menopause.

Mayo Clinic's definition is as follows: 

The worst in my case is the mood swings... and I do need to apologise to hubby for getting me at this time. Not the best time to be married to a perimenopausal woman. 

I also noticed the hot flashes, and bladder issues, and the lack of interest in bedroom activities. Perhaps men suffer this too but at later ages (maybe their 60s?). There appear to be lack of literature on it. The focus tends to be on women, and it's a good thing too I think, because we probably can identify health issues better and make better decisions health-wise, moving forward. [Research gap: abundant literature on perimenopause & menopause helped women's health and hence women live longer compared to men? there is a research opportunity here 😁] 

How do I express it? Well, I am the same person now, only more crabby.

How long will this be going on? For another 2 to 7 years perhaps, I do not know when my ovulation will screech to a halt.

Does medication help? Maybe. One friend has been prescribed HRT to increase her estrogen levels. I should probably try exercising, and get over this 'meh' rut-ty feeling. Not helping me or anyone, if I am a sulking old lady. 

On another note, in this modern era there are lots of information available and we are more open to speak about things that are deemed 'taboo' before. There are also support groups available, to help us through this particular patch.

I'll try exercising and keeping a positive mindset. Will also include this in the discussion with my gynae during our routine checks. Hope this combination works. [Humans supposedly become more patient as they get older, but I am the reverse. Where is this angst/ anger coming from? God help me!]