My GenX Menopause Journey: Research, HRT & Self-Advocacy

Perimenopause, menopause, and HRT – confusing, right? But with more women talking openly, we're finding good information and science to navigate this journey.

In The Mosh Pit With Menopause

Menopause is a natural shift, a new chapter in our Gen X story.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is when hormones start to shift in the years leading up to menopause.

During perimenopause, my periods slowly began coming closer together. And then a little closer. After a couple years, my period occasionally would skip a month. They’d normalize and then skip a couple months. Eventually, they stopped.

That was my process, but it wasn’t easy. I felt anxious and snappy. I had up to ten migraines a month. One day I woke up in an ambulance after having a hormone-related seizure and was diagnosed with epilepsy.

Those are dramatic perimenopause experiences, but I felt good about myself. I didn’t pine for my younger years. I made life shifts that were healthier (bye-bye glass of wine with dinner), and prioritized rest even more. I realized how many amazing people I have in my life.

My HRT Story

Menopause isn't a disease, it's a biological process. It begins a year after your final period. Once I reached menopause, I felt great. Then things got worse. I found balance again, a new normal as they say, but it was not easy to get here.

It shouldn’t be this hard!

Menopause hormone therapy, also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), has become a popular option for women. It's not the only path, but it was for me.

Like a self-reliant GenX’er, I researched the many risks and rewards of menopause hormone therapy. I scoured research study results and interpretations of study results. I spoke to my doctors and received conflicting guidance. It seemed there was not an accepted protocol, which was surprising and frustrating.

It turns out there is protocol, but not everyone is aware of it.

Dr. Jen Gunter and Dr. Lauren Streicher are OB/GYNs who blog and podcast about research-based protocols for women in menopause. They break down information in accessible ways, and explain in great detail why different approaches may be good for one person or another. Once I found them and an OB/GYN I trusted, I felt more empowered when I had good information.

Given I’d had a bilateral mastectomy and hormone-related seizures I had to get approval from my breast surgeon and neurologist. Everyone was on board.

Do your research, don't settle for generic advice – you deserve a personalized plan based upon your history and conditions.

A picture says a thousand words…not sure what is worse: my friend’s couch or my GenX hair!

Bioidentical vs. Pharmaceutical

I’m currently using a 0.50mcg transdermal patch weekly and micronized progesterone nightly. It seems to be the right formula for me.

I’m not a shill for Big Pharma, but I use a generic transdermal patch and generic micronized progesterone from the pharmacy. Many people believe bioidentical is best, and that only compounding pharmacies provide them. But mine are bioidentical, derived from plants and chemically similar or identical to the hormones in the body. Menopause specialist Jen Gunter is a physician who covers this in a great blog.

UTI

Shortly after I started HRT, a relentless UTI threw me into a cycle of pain and confusion. If you’ve never had a UTI, Google the symptoms. It was excruciating. Standard cultures weren't helpful. Sometimes they would be negative - even though I was symptomatic. Was menopause causing my unrelenting symptoms? I fell into a cycle of confusion and mistrust.

After independent research, a positive PCR test identified a UTI, and different antibiotics brought permanent relief. After that, I felt balance again.

Beyond HRT

There's more to menopause management than just hormones. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle with good sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet. Be in the moment with your valid feelings, and do things to cultivate joy.

“Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?”

You occasionally hear about women feeling invisible at this time in life. I don’t feel invisible. Well, sometimes I do, and I’m grateful for it! Less attention feels welcome. I’m in awe of the unique power of young women, and that time of life. But I have a different power now, and I honestly wouldn’t go back if I could.

“Every Day I Write the Book”

Gen X women are rewriting the narrative around menopause. Let's create positive stereotypes, talk openly, and embrace this journey with confidence. Research, ask questions, and advocate for your health needs.

Share Your Story!

How has your menopause experience been? Any resources that have helped you navigate the transition? Let's create a more supportive and informed conversation around this natural stage and wonderful stage of life.

Disclaimer: I'm not a licensed medical professional. This blog shares my personal story and research.
Consult a qualified doctor to discuss your individual history and needs.