First Signs of ‘The Change’

I suspect this will be a recurring topic for me. It’s a big part of a woman’s life. What was once an unspeakable subject is slowly making its way out of the dark. I feel a change happening with ‘the change’ amongst women (sorry, I couldn’t help myself). Menopause (as it will be referred to as from here on out) is a major life altering experience for most women, yet little is known about it as it gets whispered around the table. It’s not taught in school like menstruation was. The mere mention elicits eye rolls and nodding heads of acknowledgment from the older women in our lives, but not much else except, “just you wait…”—which usually scares the life out of me.

I will make a promise to you to share everything I experience and learn about menopause. TMI!? I hope not. I would really like to see less women suffer in silence like many of our elders experienced. It breaks my heart to know that women feel uncomfortable talking about menopause, even with their doctor. It can effect so many aspects of life. Mood swings, low mood, depression, anxiety, hot flashes, irritability, digestive issues such as IBS and so, so much more.

I experienced my first real hot flash, but in my case it lasted about a week. Profusely sweating even as I also felt cold in my hands and feet. Showering twice a day helped but it did not stop it. I was thankful when it was over and admittedly dreading its return. I am 44 and still feel like I am too young for all this, but how I feel is of little consequence to my changing body. My mother told me her last menstrual cycle was when she was 49. It just stopped completely never to return again. I’m hoping I have a few good years left.

Start this journey by surrounding yourself with good friends. It’s a great place to start. Let go of those who don’t support you. These are your ‘fuck it forties’ and no one has time to waste on drama. Let it go by letting them go. Find your support group and ride this menopause wave together! Who’s with me?!