*giggling* Menopause and hypothyroidism are taking center stage at my house. Between hot flashes and some hypo symptoms, my poor family is going through this change right along side me. I think I'm nearing menopause and now that my thyroid issues are being addressed, things are going well for me. For you, if your circle of friends are a little younger, I am sure it would seem like no one is talking about it....well, because they are not talking it....yet. Hang in there!
Thank you for your response. I appreciate your input. Tests on my thyroid have been normal.
Does it seem to you that life makes a big deal about puberty and "becoming a woman", but going out the other side is shrouded in "Shhh!" and mystery?
like it's some horrible fate? Doesn't seem like anyone's talking about it.
For me, I have had several years of hot flashes and night sweats, slow weight gain, but still very regular periods. Three years ago, I had 11 periods over twelve months. Two years ago, I had four. Three years ago I had two. In the past 10 months I've just had one. The flow has been typical of my history, but with a lot of back cramping (like horrendous back labor pains) although my last two periods have been very light to scant. I haven't had night sweats and hot flashes for the past few months. So, that is how it has been for me. I will say that I've recently been diagnosed with hypothyroidism which may account for the changes in my cycles to some degree. Have you had recent lab work that shows your thyroid is normal and not contributing to changes in your cycle? Might be worth checking.
Also, I'd like to say that I'm sorry you've not become pregnant. Menopause will be a bittersweet transition for you, I'm sure. Be easy with yourself.