Age 52 - last period at 50 - first symptoms at 43

The mood swings began and they were frightening to me because I have a relatively peaceful and happy nature. I would notice my moods change over the years when I was nearing my period but the moods I started to experience were really strong (unpredictable rage). I would also cry uncontrollably. Emotions were running at a 10/10 high and situations I could normally deal with I couldn’t any more. I went to a GP who was a menopause specialist and they put me on birth control and an SSRI. After that my personality changed again, this time I was numb. In the last few years I feel fortunate to have had more access to information related to managing menopause. I didn’t suffer too badly from hot flushes, nothing that couldn’t be managed. I discovered the doctors at WellFemme (I don’t remember how) and I had women talking to me and actually listening! This was HUGE. To be heard and understood. I have been on Estrogel and Prometrium for the past 2 years and it has been a bit of a journey to get the right combo. In the last year I signed up to Weight Watchers to help me lose the 10kg that wouldn’t budge. I believe this weight gain was partially due to menopause and partly due to drinking more wine to help cope with symptoms I didn’t understand. I’ve also noticed in the past 3-4 years my cognitive abilities have declined. I have terrible brain fog and forgetfulness. This has impacted my work greatly. My confidence has also dwindled. I noticed more recently that I can feel anxious when driving and some days have to really concentrate. Sex drive has also dropped but this I think is partially due to my partner not understanding what is happening for me. I find myself not wanting to engage intimately with someone who isn’t wanting to also connect with me beyond a sexual level. 

As more and more people turn to natural therapies I believe naturopaths need to be updated on the latest MHT. I believe they also cause problems with their beliefs instead of knowing the latest research.

I have educated myself through my own research on protein requirements and how to exercise now that I am post menopausal…which is very, very different to what I have known in the past. I want to keep educating myself and help other women through this time of life and beyond.