Introduction
In this episode of The Doc Talk Podcast, Dr. Shaz Mithani and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe delve into a topic that affects millions of women worldwide: perimenopause.
This phase of life often brings about various symptoms, from mood swings to cycle changes, and can sometimes leave women feeling like they're in uncharted territory. Today’s discussion is structured around Dr. Shaz’s personal experiences and questions, along with insights from Dr. Sheila, who brings her expertise in menopause to provide guidance, clarity, and support for women going through these transitions.
Episode Highlights
- Listener Question: Special thanks to Melissa Grelo, from the Social and Aging Powerfully with Melissa Grelo, for sending in today’s question about the symptoms of perimenopause, which she describes as impacting cycles, mood, energy, and more.
- What is Perimenopause?
- Overview of perimenopause as the transition phase before menopause.
- Symptoms: From mood swings, fatigue, and cycle changes to hot flashes, perimenopause presents in various ways.
- Differentiating early vs. late perimenopause.
- Typical age range and onset.
- Symptoms and How to Manage Them
- Discussing lifestyle changes that can alleviate symptoms, including consistent sleep, stress management, exercise, and diet.
- Non-hormonal options for mood support, like CBT and specific medications.
- Hormonal therapy for managing severe symptoms affecting quality of life that can include hormonal contraception, IUDs and menopause hormonal therapy.
- Contraception Considerations
- Why contraception is still essential in perimenopause, as fertility doesn’t end immediately.
- Birth control methods that can help manage symptoms and prevent pregnancy, such as low-dose hormonal contraceptives and IUDs.
- Addressing Perimenopause at Work
- Tips on discussing symptoms with employers and practical strategies for managing symptoms at work.
- Common Myths: Testing for Perimenopause
- Explanation of why blood tests aren’t typically useful in diagnosing perimenopause due to fluctuating hormone levels.
- Emphasis on tracking symptoms rather than relying on over-the-counter tests.
- Emergency Room Insights
- Dr. Shaz shares stories of patients experiencing symptoms like palpitations and other health concerns that can often be linked back to perimenopause.
Resources for Support
Sponsor Acknowledgment
Thanks to Always Discreet for supporting this episode. Always Discreet products are designed to keep you comfortable and confident through all stages of life, including perimenopause. When used correctly, Always Discreet can stop bladder leaks before they happen, and feel like you’re wearing no protection at all. Always Discreet has been there through all your life changes and will continue to support, educate and empower you during this new, upcoming phase.
Visit Always Discreet for your own product here: https://checkout51.app.link/e/K3yAUdFCUKb
Thank you for joining us on this week’s episode! Remember, this podcast provides general information and is not a replacement for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for questions related to your health. Follow us on social media @TheDocTalkPod, and don’t hesitate to send in your questions for future episodes!&l
