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Living with early menopause - let's chat
Let’s talk about living with early menopause. Early menopause is defined as occurring between the ages 40-45 years and premature menopause is less than 40 years old.
As moderator of the Women's Health group, I noticed that several people were talking about early menopause, but those discussions were scattered throughout the community. I thought I would start this discussion to bring us all together in one place to share about coping with challenges and your tips for living with early menopause.
Grab a cup of tea, or beverage of your choice, and let’s chat. Why not start by introducing yourself?
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Hello, @smcguire, @essence10, @jacquelinek1956, @amihealthy and @hartsada9265. I would like to invite you and other members of the Women's Health group to a discussion about living with early menopause. At what age did you experience menopause? What's your menopause story, and how are you doing today?
I entered menopause at the age of 48. The hot flashes and night sweats were horrible. I almost drove my husband crazy during the winter. I'd close the window, open the window, over and over. I'd be sitting by the open window and he'd be all wrapped up in a blanket. Due to a heart condition, I was not able to have hormone therapy, but I made it through it. About the only downside I have now, is weight gain and vaginal dryness. Other than that - life is good without my period! 🙂
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2 ReactionsI had a full hysterectomy at 37 and felt so good after that. Had all kinds of problems with my oVaries. Was on some sort of hormone for a few years. Now I am a young 71 and am Full of arthritis and osteoporosis That I have chronic pain. I don't know if there's any connection or not, but it,arthritis, runs in the family. But eat right, don't smoke or drink to excess, drink a lot of water and question every pill the Dr gives you to see if you really need it. Good luck
I was diagnosed with Early Menopause (aka Primary Ovarian Insufficiency) at 36. I was having menopausal symptoms - hot flashes, anxiety/restlessness, vaginal burning/inflammation, etc. The diagnosis was a double whopper - the health risks of going into menopause early (heart health, osteoporosis, and brain health) and low probability of being able to get pregnant. Last year was definitely a year of change...an emotional one to say the least. This year has been better. I'm currently only on an Estrogen patch. My symptoms have improved. I have definitely noticed a connection with my vaginal symptoms and my hydration level. So, I drink lots of water. I know I'm also more prone to Urinary Tract Infections...so the water consumption helps out with this too. I'm still have my days with the infertility...but I can talk more openly about it now. So, that assures me that I'm on a path of healing and acceptance. I don't know what my future holds for me, but I feel better now and have adapted to my new norm.
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2 ReactionsSusan, I had an extremely difficult time dealing with the fact that I most likely would not get pregnant. This i found out at age 25 Got the hysterectomy at 35. But was able to adopt 2 children 2 years apart. That was in the early 70's. I am now in my early 70's and remember it like it was yesterday.
Give yourself time to adjust to yourself and your new you because every day is a gift. Be goofy to yourself and you are right about drinking a lot of water for so many reasons.
You still have a chance that you might get pregnant ? I got pregnant twice for 2 months each, and the Doctor said I would never be able to carry a baby I had a problem with my uterus, it was divided in half. Lucky me, if there was something weird to be it would happen to me. I was so miserable I don't know how my husband put up with it.
Today when I see a pregnant woman I still get a little sad, but I learned that things happen for a reason. I have 2 great kids on their 40's now and 3 grandchildren.
What are your plans for the future? Do you work, travel, read, volunteer, work out? Or are you not there yet?
Keep busy. Have something to look forward to each day. Even if it is a cup of tea or a soap opera.
I am happy that you seem to be adjusting to your new position in life because you are worth it.
Please tell me more about your self. Even if I am old enough to be your mother, my grandkids think I am so much fun and silly and I don't care what anyone else thinks as long as I am happy.
The best to you.
Marie (marield65)
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2 ReactionsSusan, I meant to say be good to your self, not goofy. Maybe being goofy isn't such a bad thing either. But sorry for that mistake.
Marie
Hi Marie!!
Thank you for the support!! I think it's important to be goofy and good to yourself:) I have taken a break from the rat race of life this year to "reset" and "re-balance" my life. Actually, it's been nice!! I don't really know if I want to jump back into the rat race again. My therapy is gardening, being outside, and walks with my husband. I keep myself active and do lots of yoga to keep myself physically and mentally healthy. The healthy eating follows with that lifestyle. I usually am travelling for leisure quite a bit...but have taken a break from that this year to devote my time to house projects and making our home....our home.
It's really nice to have the support from someone who has lived this life. I love my friends...but they're all in "Mom" mode right now and can only provide so much support. Then the ones that don't know about my condition have dropped the comment..."It must be nice not having kids." The sucker punch they don't realize that their giving. I haven't found the courage to tell some of them yet...but also don't want to say it resentfully.
I do feel stronger this year. I agree - I do believe things happen for a reason. I don't fully understand why this has happened in our life...but have faith that there is a reason for it and one day will understand. I don't know what lies ahead of us...but am hopefully. My husband and I have been blessed many times over, and we choose to keep our focus on those blessings!
Thank you again for your support! Much appreciated.
Susan
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2 ReactionsSusan you sound like such a sweet and loving person. Yes,things happen for a reason. You will see as you go more of the light than right now. You may never understand "why you " but if you go along and accept each day as a gift, and do try to enjoy each day and your husband you will grow and become more you.
May I ask your age? You seem very mature . I will be talking more to you as I am going out right now. You are a lovely person.
Marie
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1 ReactionThank you Marie!! Great advice! I'm 38...and living and learning. I have collected quotes through the years....the one sitting in front of me states: "There are two kinds of people in the world. Those who carry balloons....and those who carry pins." Thank you for carrying a balloon!!
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2 ReactionsSusan you just sent a balloon my way and I love it. It is my favorite color "red " and means bright and bold. I am a very young 71 and after what I went through in April, every day is a gift. I had a knee replacement and was allergic to the pain med DiLaudid and went into a coma for 4 days. They didn't know how long it would take for me to come out of it and told my husband it could be weeks. But I came out of it. Scared of everything, but everyday got better and since then I am happy. For so many things.
So, lt may not be easy every day, but no one is going to burst my balloon. Thank you for it.
Marield65
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