Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause

This section offers a foundational overview of perimenopause and menopause, drawing from reputable sources.

Menopause occurs when menstruation ceases due to a decrease in hormone levels, typically affecting individuals between 45 and 55 years old, although it can occur earlier. This transition impacts anyone who menstruates.

Menopause can arise naturally or may result from medical interventions such as oophorectomy (removal of ovaries), hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), cancer treatments like chemotherapy, or genetic factors. In some cases, the cause remains unclear.

Perimenopause is characterized by menopausal symptoms despite ongoing menstruation. It concludes when a person has not experienced a menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months.

A key takeaway is that the experience of menopause varies widely among individuals. It can be valuable to discuss your experiences with family members, as they may provide insights based on their own journeys.

I learned from my mother that she underwent early menopause at age 43. At that time, she was told, “You’ve already gone through it, and there’s nothing that can be done.”

During her era, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was often viewed with skepticism, considered risky with potential links to hormone-related cancers, such as breast cancer. This concern frequently overshadowed any benefits of starting HRT.

Fortunately, advancements have been made, though challenges remain. In the UK, one typically consults a GP for prescriptions related to menopause.

For those who can afford it, visiting a menopause specialist privately may yield more tailored support. These specialists often conduct blood tests to assess hormone levels, providing a clearer picture of deficiencies.

If private consultation isn’t an option, individuals may need to conduct their own research to present to their GP or nurse, as general practitioners often focus on broader areas rather than specialized ones.

While I don’t wish to criticize GPs, it’s important to acknowledge that they juggle numerous responsibilities within general practice. Some practices might have a physician with more expertise in this area; it’s advisable to seek out those with specialized knowledge.

The process of finding the right treatment can be lengthy, often beginning with the lowest dose and gradually increasing until one feels a sense of normalcy or improvement. Keeping a diary to track changes can be beneficial.

A quick search reveals numerous symptoms associated with menopause, many of which overlap with other conditions.

For instance, anxiety or mood swings might lead to a prescription for antidepressants. Thus, creating a comprehensive list of symptoms is crucial. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) indicates that menopause can often be diagnosed based on symptoms alone, without the need for blood tests. This underscores the importance of documenting one’s symptoms, and there are apps available, such as the Balance app, to assist with tracking.

Knowledge is empowering, and it’s essential to approach consultations well-informed. Many in the UK are aware that navigating women’s health issues often requires proactive effort on the part of the patient.

In this space, I will share my personal experiences with menopause and perimenopause. While I do not claim to be an expert, writing about my journey may provide some comfort or insight to others.

Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections.

C L Blackwood