??♀??????? What can I say, I don't feel the same!

I visited my doctor on Friday, ?? ready for the usual refrain to wait until my periods ceased before considering any significant intervention like Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Yet, I broached the topic of HRT, curious but not expecting her to be abreast of the latest perspectives. Surprisingly, she was very current in her knowledge and open to discussing HRT as a viable option now, despite my being perimenopausal. She noted that while we wouldn’t be checking my hormone levels due to their fluctuating nature and the likelihood they'd appear 'normal' because of my ongoing menstrual cycle, it didn’t preclude the potential benefits of HRT.

Following her advice, I'm now scheduled for comprehensive blood work to assess overall health indicators rather than specific hormone levels, and a mammogram as part of routine health maintenance—not because of any direct concern related to HRT. The clarity and forward-thinking she provided was reassuring, and I’ve decided to give HRT a trial, closely observing any improvements in how I feel.

Approaching my 50s has brought an awareness of change. Women can begin the perimenopausal journey as early as 35, enduring a myriad of symptoms for a decade or more. Conventional wisdom advises lifestyle changes as the initial treatment strategy: increased physical activity, nutrient-rich diet, sufficient sleep, stress reduction, and moderated alcohol intake. While I’ve maintained such a healthy lifestyle and experienced milder symptoms compared to friends who've suffered greatly, I haven't been immune to the changes. My emotional state, focus, and overall coherence have shifted noticeably.

I’ve immersed myself in the study of menopause and consulted numerous specialists, learning that HRT can significantly ease perimenopausal symptoms. Although many acquaintances weren't offered HRT until post-menopause, new research advocates for earlier intervention. Acknowledging this, alongside my doctor’s contemporary approach and my proactive health management, I am hopeful about navigating these changes with greater ease and understanding.

?? Watch this space,I'll be sharing with you how I go.

?? Lisa xox