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Peri menopause symptoms & diagnosis

Posted , 6 users are following.

ZoeyG
ZoeyG

Hello, this forum has been reassuring for me.  I’m 46 and the past 10 months my periods have been really messing me around (irregular, missing them completely), I’ve also started getting bad headaches around the time of a ‘period’, bad muscular aches, bladder weakness and some hot flushes during the day (none at night). I’m worried in case something else is going on. Do Drs diagnose peri-menopause or is it ‘I think it’s peri-menopause’ from the dr?

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • Gillfc
    Gillfc ZoeyG

    Posted

    Hi Zoey.  I'm 46 too and having my first weird period, 2 weeks so far and not like normal. I haven't missed a period yet but my cycles have shortened and I have had a few 17 day cycles the last 18 months. I just wrote a long post., myself. It's all so scary! My doctor has ordered a pap but if it's clean she said I'm in peri menopause. I think they need to rule out anything else before chalking it all up to Peri. 

  • gilly_64426
    gilly_64426 ZoeyG

    Posted

    So many symptoms that it's difficult for the doctors to diagnose and treat.

    But from the sounds of it you are definitely going thru perimenapause.

  • sarah39816
    sarah39816 ZoeyG

    Posted

    Hi, Zoey,

    I'm 46, soon to be 47 and have been in peri for about 5 years.  In the beginning I was having slight changes to my cycles.  My periods were like clockwork (every 24 days for 30 years) and then a few times a year I noticed my periods would get closer together or further apart.  I saw my GP and had several tests and she said I was likely in peri, but didn't really recommend anything for relief of my then minor symptoms.  I had no idea at the time how much worse it would get.  

    I recently visited another physician who specializes in natural medicine to help with the peri symptoms I'm now experiencing.  I've had bloodwork, urine/saliva tests, as well  other testing.  My doctor advised that my hormone levels were extremely low, that of a woman who was in full menopause even though I am still having periods.  I have decided to try BHRT, as the symptoms have been so wicked the last couple of years  that I find it difficult to function many days (unpredictable heavy, long lasting periods and all the symtoms that go along with a menstrual cycle--cramps, bloating, fatigue.  Plus peri symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, depression, difficulties sleeping, muscle and joint pain, gastro problems, headaches, and the list goes on and on).  Looking back, I realize now that those little changes to my monthly cycles was truly the beginning of perimenopause.  I'm sorry for all the information about me, but wanted to let you know that I believe what you are experiencing is the beginning of perimenopause. It can be very scary, but I know you will be fine and you will get through it.  I recommend you see your GP or other health specialist and have your hormones tested and discuss your concerns. Your hormones can fluctuate day to day and even hour to hour, but after some consistent testing, you will be able to get an idea what is going on hormonally and explore any treatments, if necessary.

    I wish you all the best.  You will get through this and you will feel better!  Hugs--Sarah

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