Rapid Weight gain/menapause?

[dihog]

I am a 43 yr old. women who has always exercised and has always had to watch my weight.  Over the years I've successfully stayed at a healthy weight by following a low-calorie (sometimes low carb) way of eating and have always exercised.  In the last year and 1/2, I have gained 25 lbs. (15 in the last 6 months) while continuing to diet and exercise the entire time (I have changed nothing and in fact have increased my exercise).  This rapid unexplained weight gain has me going crazy.  My thyroid has been tested and is well within normal range---my Dr thinks it's all just due to menapause--but this seems SO excessive especially for someone like me who is SO disciplined with my diet and also with exercise.  WHat else could this be???? WHat tests should I have done and/or what kindof dr. should I see? an endrocrinologist???

[CDC2005]

Hi there - Glad to hear I'm not alone.  I'm 46 and have gained about 25 lbs. in the past 12-15 months also.  I have had my thyroid removed but doctor says thats not it (it was removed 16 years ago).  I'm having hot flashes too.  All of this weight seemed to hit my waistline.  I look like I'm 6 months pregnant!!! and nothing fits or looks good.  My partner told me this morning I had a beer belly (I immediately began to cry).  I have been trying so hard but can't get rid of it (it just keeps coming).  I guess starvation is the next step!  Just thought I'd let you know that I think your doctor is right and we are classic female examples (unfortunately).  Thanks for sharing :)

[ritac]

Add one more to the group, I am 48 years old. I have been the same weight for almost 5 years, even when I ate a lot of fattening foods and no exercise, I would within 3 days be back at my normal weight, and now within the last four months I have gained 25 pounds. I could not understand why. I mentioned it to my doctor the other day and she said that I could be starting menopause. My cycle has changed slightly I use to be 7 days but now I am 4 1/2 days. Even though my cycles have been coming exactly 28 days apart, usually the first day is the worst, I am extremely heavy, the other three days are extremely light. I have also been experiencing night sweats, during the middle of the night I feel like I am going to literally burn up, I get so hot, the air conditioner is on 70 degrees, not to mention that I have a ceiling fan blowing directly on me. The only thing that seems to help me cool off is to get up during the night when I start to get hot and lay on my leather sofa, the coolness from the sofa helps me fall back to sleep. Thank god for leather. It usally lasts for an hour or so and then I can go back to bed. The good thing is that it does not happen to me every night, but there does not seem to be a pattern of when the night sweats occur.

[sal48]

I'm so glad that I'm not alone.  I believe I have been going through menapause since last Nov. so nearly a year now.  My periods have stopped (which I do like) but out of the blue I'm gaining weight right in my mid section.  I exercise nearly everyday, I do crunches, run, try to eat right and nothing happens.  I have even taken natural water pills to see if that would help but so far no.  I havent seen my doctor yet but plan on making an appt.  The other symptoms I have are hot flashes, getting irritable easier and just plan mad due to my weight.  I think you were right.... starvation is next!  Thank y'all for sharing.

[Jaye Bird]

[Jaye Bird]

I am a 45 year old woman and I thought it was just me.  This is just making me crazy.  I thought the less I ate, the more I gained.  I don't have any one special in my life because I don't feel sexy anymore.  I don't even date because of the enormous weight gain.  I found myself eating one meal a day now.  Suddenly out of nowhere I ballooned and I won't even get on a scale.  Nothing I wear fits me anymore and I don't want to go shopping for new clothing because I don't want to accept what is happening to my body.  I need help because now depression is setting in.  I am hungry and I am afraid to face the world.  I even quit working because I don't want people to see me.  I have dumped the man in my life because I felt unattractive.  My periods are out of control and I can't sleep most nights.  Everyone I ask gives me a different opinion of what is happening (all of my friends are older and have gone through this).  My moods are batting home runs out of control and I don't like who I have become.  People tell me that I am beautiful and I just want to hide myself in the house alone.  I am online right now looking for relief.  Thank goodness this is not in my mind.   Thank you ladies for being here.

[spade07]

Hi I am a 37 year old going through menopause since last November.I went to my obgyn when i was experiencing migraines,hot flashes,and emotional mood swings.My Doctor put me on premarin hormone therapy,at the time i was walking 2-3 miles a day after work 4 times a week plus going to curves and aerobics.I started to notice weight gain in my waistline so i joined weight watchers.I was a member of weight watchers before and was able to loose weight in the first weeks I would loose up to 10 pounds.This time I lost about 3 then the next week i would gain 5.I got frustrated and quit. Now I have gained 11 lbs. and i don't even have the energy to walk on my treadmill for 10 minutes and have no desire to do anything .Why is there no special diet to follow or help for women going through this? It is bad enough to feel  
the way we do going through menopause then add on top of it the lack of control you have on your weight it is down right depressing!!! Thank you for being here.

[cmtkids]

HELLO ,
IM 47 AND MOVED TO VA. FROM FLA. THERES A MIND CHECK.  WE HAVE BEEN HERE A YEAR AND A HALF AND IN THAT TIME I HAVE GAINED 23 POUNDS. TEN POUNDS IN ONE MONTH. NOT TO MENTION IM ON A MOUNTAIN AND 96 ACRES INSTEAD OF PALM BEACH..TALK ABOUT HORMONES, HOT FLASHES AND EVERY MONTH AROUND THE FIRST AND 3RD I START CRYING AND THE DEPRESSION STARTS IN AND THE FAMILY RUNS!  SEX HAH THATS A JOKE..WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO US. OH YEAH NO PERIOD SINCE APRIL..I FIND MY ONLY FRIEND IS A 500 POUND GRIZZLY.. AND ONE SICK DEER...HELP

[kt5]

I am 47 and I can't believe there are so many out there experincing the same thing I am.  I have always had to watch my weight since I had a problem when I was younger.  I am very cautious of my weight and have worked hard to keep it were I am comfortable.  In the past 8 months my weight has gone up and it is mainly in the mid section.  It is very depressing when you are trying very hard to maintain, exercise and still gain.  I too have hot flashes that come on and feel like I am burning from the inside out.  The worse is when I am at work and I can't really go anywhere  to cool off!  Thank you all for sharing, it makes me feel so much better to know I'm not alone or wierd!!

[sensatve12]

Hi, Im 47 and going thru this same thing. Weight is piling on and the sex drive is all but gone. I thought the 40s were suppose to be the best times?! Ihave had by-pass surgery and so I have to be careful what I eat and take as far as vitamins.
Any suggestions???

[suz1957]

Hi.......I am so pleased to know that I'm not going mad !!! I thought this was only happening to me. After having shed 3 stone ( and keeping it off for over 2 years) and feeling on top of the world, I started to go through menopause. In 9 months I have gained 3 stone plus. I am constantly tired, unable to sleep more than a couple of hours at night without waking, have hot flushes and feel so bloated and unattractive that I just want to stay home and hide. I am usually so outgoing, but all these symptoms are really getting me down. I am 50 but feel about 75. I eat sensibly and exercise every day and yet am still gaining weight. My doctor blames my hormones, but cant come up with a cure.

[sensatve12]

so what about the basically no sex-drive? Is there something to help out with that? Anyone have any answers? I used to be Mz Sex-Drive now its about down to none. My husband understands but hates it.

[Bookelf]

OMG, I am 45 and done with it. I gained 25 lbs in the past year. I exercise, walk and don't eat fattening stuff. I am freaking out. Sex drive doesn't exist. I am having a doctors appointment on Thursday. I better come up with something, to top it off I am married to somebody 10 years younger. I am open for suggestions. help

[spade07]

I went to the Dr. last week and she told me that when you reach menopause you should cut back on your food intake by 20%.I think that even if i just eat fruits and one meal a day i would still put on weight .

[dried up]

Hi....It seems that we are mostly just saying what we are going through and realizing that other women are doing that same thing as we are.  I need to know about the sex drive and what is happening down there.  I think I am drying up.  Everything seems to be thinner, less responsive and drier.  I am not taking any replacement hormones.  I have not had a period for 18 months.  My calcium levels are low, my mood swings are under control right now, but I know that as I get less sun light that will change.  But the thing that bothers me the most is the sex changes.  What can I do to plump up the lower lips and increase the juices?

[to be happy again]

I am 59 and have just stated the whole menopausal symptoms.  I can relate to all of you with the mood swings, hot flashes, lack of libido but the worst is the weight gain and where I have gained it.  My question is:  we all are having the same problems and the catch 22 of weight gain which leads to depession which leads to weight gain etcl  Any experts out there with a natural solution to losing weight with no pills.  I would love to hear from someone!!

[Frustrated!]

Wow - so glad I'm not alone.  I'm 40 and I've gained 15 lbs in the last year. Like most of you, I exercise and watch my diet.  I've worked with a nutritionist who told me I don't eat enough so I tried adjusting - no luck!  I just saw an endocrinologist who suggested I see a psychiatrist so that I can get my depression under control which will allow me to make better choices and exercise more.... interesting considering that I exercise 7 days a week and vigorously!  He also told me that my night sweats are probably anxiety attacks in my sleep.  Yes, he really said that!  If anyone has any suggestions or if I ever get to the bottom of this nightmare, let's keep in touch!

[AnnieBrooke]

I have just gotten some wild yam cream and also wild yam gel, which is supposed to help with the vaginal symptoms.  It's because I'm a later mama and am nursing, which has dried me out as effectively as full-blown menopause.  Will let you all know if it works.  I got the wild yam cream at a health-food store, and the wild yam gel from a website.  The nice thing about the gel is that it has no scent.  

[Laurie100]

I have gained over twenty pounds in the last year....I look like I am pregnant (even though I know that I am not), and haven't had a period in over three months.  I recently saw my family doctor complaining of not only the missed periods,but also night sweats, hot flashes and constant irritability.  I thought that perhaps she would prescribe a low dose birth control pill but she said to try black cohosh, and drink or consume lots of soy products. So far, I feel no relief and the weight gain around my mid-section is continuing to grow larger.  I already suffer from depression and I truly am afraid of what is happening to me.  

[goldenyears2]

I'm 52 and gained 20 lbs in one year. I feel like a walking egg. I'm losing my middle section to become one with my boobs and my belly. Nothing fits, who wants sex when you feel so round?
Anyone have anything that helps? I was on jenny craig but all of a sudden like someone wrote I lost 5 got all excited , went back on the scale and gained 4 from "the air". I feel so discouraged and then will power has been an issue. I feel like "who cares" anymore but I do care...

[judy2639]

[snowydoo]

I suggest that eveyone have their thyroid checked every 6 months or so while going through menapause or pre-menapause. I actually lost weight(12 lbs), but felt terrible, fatigued had diarhea (diarrhea), rapid heart, eyes were getting blurried, anxious, a few months of no periods & got worried as to the weight loss as I was still eating plenty. Dr. said I had a Hyperactive thyroid, had put me on Tapazole & now I have gained the 12Lbs plus, but feel a bit better. The endocrinologist said that so many woman get thyroid problems around the menapause years, but as it mimicks menapausal symptons they fail to get their thyroid checked. You can be OK, borderline or slightly low or high & need to keep rechecking it in a few months to be sure it hasn't changed. My Dr. hadn't checked my thyroid since 1991. I don't know why unless it was an insurance issue. Yes, I now have gained weight, but will try to diet or do something to lose this weight.
Tina

[tummyblues]

I am really glad I found this forum, I thought I was going crazy or just geting lazy.  I am 47, no sex life at all, which we are ok with for now.  But the weight gain and hot flashes have about driven me over the edge.  Everyone is quick to tell me what to try but I am not one to take a pill.  But I have tried a couple and I think they made it worse instead of better.  I had a hystrectomy when I was 27 but would not take anything because I figured 20 or 30 years on something was way to long.  But the weight is my big issue, I can live with everything else.  I have never been small, 5'5" and weighed around 150 all my life, I was content with that and I could maintain it.  But now I am 180 and still going no matter what I do, HELP.   tummyblues

[Mary 53]

Hi,

I feel for you...who knew about this menopause thing! Take a look at my profile. My situation I realize is different from  yours, but you might find some help/hope there...and, do pick up Northrup's book if you can. I still pick it up from time to time....loan it to friends going through this...such a great help. Things can get better!

Sincerely,

Mary

[CRAZYat46]

I think I posted my comment on the wrong forum!  I am having different symptoms.  Just had a checkup, EKG, normal.  Thyroid normal.  Now am having rapid heart.  Am glad I found this forum.  The weight gain is awful.  Fatigue, but the rapid heart scared me.  Glad I read it here that some of you have this to.  I did hear of a cream you can get your pharmacy to make to help symptoms.  Have any of you heard about this?

[Jokensam]

I am glad to hear that I'm not crazy.  I am 38 years old and I was told last year by my gyno and fertility specialist that I am in menapause.  I have gained 25 lbs in the past year and this week alone I have gained another 5.  Yes the weight gain in awful and  have tried the wild yam cream hoping that this would help my hormones and make me lose wieght but of course it hasn'e .  Sex--- you don't even want it!!!!  Help!!!

Rolly Poly

[Mary 53]

I am copying a post (I try not to do that...sorry!) from my answer to you from another post on this forum. You might have seen it already, though.

Hope this helps. You may also be thinking of the estrogen cream called bi-est. It is a combination of Estrodial and Esriol. I have used that but over the past few years I have gone back to the Estrodial patch, Vivelle, which is a bioidentical. But, I would not use this withou the Progesterone for balance, amongst other reasons.

Check out the info on my profile and some of the posts on bioidentical hormones if you wish. I am not a doctor, but I have been researching this issue for years....and, I have used these products for years, too.

Take care, Mary

[Mary 53]

Hi,

I am sorry to hear of your struggles...I can relate, but that is probably not much of a comfort.

I would highly recommend you pick up Northrup's book on Menopause. I think you would find it very helpful! It was and still is a lifesaver for me.

Sorry...my hands are bad tonight (winter excema) and I am  typing at a snails pace.  

I can get back to you if you wish.  I typed a ton of info on hormones on the Hysterectomy site and the ovarian cancer site. My profile has a "My Posts" link, as all profiles do, but there are over 550 posts in my name....YIKES!  But, sift thru if you wish.

Sorry I cannot type much. I have cortizone cream on most
fingertips (:

How long have you been on the cream? and did you try the Progesterone cream ever?  

Mary

[Mary 53]

Crazyat46....here is the post whcih I forgot to copy!!
**************************************************
Hoping you read my profile. I will try to add even more (if Medhelp lets me make it SUPERLONG!). I think  you are thinking of the Progesterone cream. I use that, only I use a much higher percentage than that which is sold over the counter, although there are a few good brands that are sold over the counter that have natural progesterone in them, like Femgest and Progest. I felt the best when I added the Progesterone. AMAZING. But, it will get confused with Progestins...the synthetic stuff, if you ask the wrong doctor. IT is an amazingly confusing subject.

Check out Dr. Erika Schwartz's website and also Women to Women  ...started by Northrup (Wisdom of Menopause, by Christianne Northrup, MD). That book is my bible. And, you don't have to feel crazy, but if it helps, I know what you are talking about....I felt that way, too.

Did you have ovaries removed during the Hysterectomy?

Take care, Mary

[caslas]

Hi I decided to go on line tonight to find out what the real symptoms are! Now decided that they are so varied and mine seem to mirror those I've read. I feel hugely bloated certain times of the month and have disctinct popping feeling in my groin for several days followed by oversized breasts which ache and sometimes itch! My stomach bloats and I feel just awful. I seem to be all top heavy during certain days of the month and then after about a week or so things seem to go back to normal. I have night sweats but so far no too bad! I seem emotional, and put this down to my teenage son and not menopause! think differently now!

[maggs889]

how r you? Ijust got finished reading your message...it's been awhile. How's it going? I'm 52 and am CRAZY!!!!! Can't take these mood swings...I of course direct all of them straight to my husband. I want a divorce one minute and the next, can't wait to see him. Please help me !!!!I Need some suggestions on something natural to take...

[differentperson]

I feel better since reading these comments.  I'm 42 and have been told by my gyno that I'm menapausal.  I'm having irregular periods, mood swings, depression, etc.  But the weight gain is driving me insane.  Lost 50 pounds on weight watchers eight years ago.  Exercise five days a week, but have put on fifteen pounds in the last year!!  I'm not doing anything differently so I don't understand. My dr. wants to put me on a birth control pill for my symptoms.  Does anyone know if this will help with my weight gain by evening out my hormones or will I gain even more weight?  Losing hope.

[crabbycrybaby]

Hi
Reading everyone's comments is helpful. Some days this is hell.I understand that some people do well on birth control.
Some days are killer. I'm 43 sweat like a pig, cry ,yell, feel crazy , can't sleep,bleed or bloated ,to many more to list, and on top of that gained 25 pounds. Worst of all  my boy friend is unkind and not understanding.It does'nt help that my favorite person ( my daughter ) is going off to collage.Just call me cabby cry baby. Good luck to all.
ps; estrovan at the heath store is helpful

[colle]

Hi, I am 48  and have recently gained 25 lbs just like that at first i thought it was just depression but lately have been very cranky and unable to consentrate I am hoping that this is due to memapause and not any other problems I dont like anyone anymore and i have to children to bring up how do you tell them well for I dont know how long mommy is going to be a ***** so just go away and leave me alone I am trying some herbel medications and hoe to get some sleep one of these nights and I am happy to see that I am not the only crazy lady in the nieghborhood

[tranquel]

i am 56 years old and have had a hysterectomy when i was 28 i weighed about 112 pounds all my life but last year i gained 36 pounds i am weighing in at 160 now i am truly discourage i do not have thyroid and i always wondered if you would gain weight later on in life during menapause but i have had everything removed at the age of 28?

[Cin1962]

It is comforting to read that I'm not the only 45 year old women who has gained weight for no apparent reason.  I have gained 15 pounds in the last year, I go to the gym 4 or 5 times a week, I eat approx. 1300 - 1400 calories a day and I don't drink.  I can only imagine if I really porked out and was drunk all the time.....well maybe  I would feel better - ha!  I'm just frustrated because I don't know what to do anymore.  My dr. has no advice other than to tell me I'm getting older - WOW, really!!!  I would love to have some ideas on what to do as it is extremely frustrating.  

[SANDY1211]

I am 48 years old and my weight is horrible.I have quiet smoken and not only have I gained weight from that,but sinse I have been in menapause I have gained more weight.It has seem like no matter what I do my weight will NOT COME OFF!

[melsymoo]

Thanks for the posts.  I am 41 and was on the pill for 3 years to help with perimenopause symptoms.  I went off of it because of an increase in migraines with aura.  Since going off Yasmin, I have gained 17 pounds while eating less.  Its very sad but has allowed me to buy new clothes!  Dr. can't explain the weight gain medically but has suggested progesterone replacement for migraines and anxiety.  He is also testing other hormone levels.  I have done a lot of research on bio-identical hormone replacement therapy which my Dr. doesn't really "perscribe" to.  So I will continue the search for the fountain of youth.  If you find help, be sure to blog!

[kristin970]

Hi, 40 somethings....
Take a deep breath and don't worry, there are solutions to your symptoms. Menopause may be normal but not everyone gets it. I am a Naturopath and have been dealing with women's hormones for some time now.
The best way to describe the synthetic hormone use is that your hormone receptors are like a jigsaw and the hormones are the jigsaw pieces. If the hormone is not natural i.e. a direct replica of our natural hormones then its not going to fit into the jigsaw and you are going to get a whole lotta different problems.
To the lady who is on Premarin.....did you know premarin is taken from a pregnant horse? Dont mean to scare you but its not an exact fit...
Bio-Identical progesterone is what you ladies probably need , it is acn exact replica of our own progesterone and it is the feel good hormone that decreases with menopause. Most doctors will prescribe oestrogen (synthetic) and it isnt what we need.
Check out the women's health section at my website, it might make more sense, there are lots of things that can upset our hormones and contribute to weight gain.
One more thing... I would suggest you get a salivary hormone analysis done, this will show your available hormone levels.
Good luck,
Hope that helped a little

Kristin

[nevergiveup501]

Hi ........I went into early post menapause at 43 and I had the irretability, hot flashes......AND the slight middle section......I have not had a problem with weight gain till about 8 mon. ago and my weight kept climbing mostly the middle... i joined Weight Watchers and lost 5 , gained 3 and lost no more .....I joined a boot camp  3 days a week and it has helped immensly on the aching joints. I am seeing muscle tone but absolutley no weight loss....I even increase calories like they said......went to Doctor and he too said it is menopause and some women will gain and I was one of them....I thought no way! I quit WW and joined Jenny Craig  and stuck to it except for the occasional wine....so far  3 lb. gain...FRUSTRATING, I'll give it 3 more weeks. I want to prove the doctor wrong...I have been using Estroven extra strength for sweats and mood swings, which has worked wonders.  For depression it is a great oppurtunity to clean up the past and move forward..... I am amazed that I am not alone here......keep forging ahead hopefuly there will be some kind of a break through!!!!!!!!!!!!!! PLEASE

[jmbirds]

i'm 43 hysterectomy at 30 have 1 ovary ,growing cyst have the same issues,  gyno did a ca125 neg for ob-gyn cancer , waiting on fsh and lh for peri- meniipasal  thyroid is normal yet multi goitoris muscle pain heart sweats etc etc grrrrrr my vit D was dangerously low , on 50,000 unit 1 pill per wk for 1 month and retest  , now 99% of the time any thyroid issue will cause vit D issues i'm hypo symptoms , i'm hoping this wt gain will subside , i told the gyno no hrt i'll drink soy milk and vit E for my symptoms  he said its a placebo effect i said good then its safe ! alot of woman swear by this!

[jmbirds]

oops my endo agreed my thyroid is normal levels however he said hes putting my thyroid to sleep to quiet me down i'm on 50mcg graduating to 100 mcg  should stop the painful neck and the vit d 3 should quiet my pain its been 3 days feeling better!

[TILLYS]

Hey,  glad to know that  i am not a lone in this weight  gain. And every thing  that could be wrong IT has been so hard . I try DIET PILLS for a month . went to a DR. The pill like to cause me to lose my mind.  I stay  hungry all the time!  I went for my yearly check up and asked the GYN.DR  about PROGESTERONE CREAM .I had to do a salva test. IT cause me three hundred dollar.   My insurance would not paid it. I have been on the cream  for two weeks nothing has change yet. I heard it takes as long as three months. This is suppose to help with weight, sex ,hot flashes, and depression. I have read so much on it. HOPE IT WORKS! ( Had a complet hysterectomy  two year a go ) I went from a fourty something to a seventy year old. Life has been so hard.

[juzy399]

At age 40 I started gaining weight.  I also had trouble with my memory - so much I thought I was getting early Alzheimer's - - - but I just blamed it all on my stressful job. My mom laughed that this is what happens to you when you get old.  Yearly checkups indicated that I was perfectly fit -- my doctor just preached to me that I needed to exercise more and eat less.  In May, now aged 43,  I had my yearly checkup and my doctor decided that I needed a break from the BC pill(I"d been on it for about 3 years). By this time I"d collectively gained  more weight(20 lbs) over the past 3 years but again got the same speech - Eat less, exercise more.  At my 3 month follow up(and 7 more lb weight gain) the doctor did blood work for thyroid problems and I asked him to check my hormone levels at the same time. Reluctantly, he did.  Later the doctor called me in shock.  My bloodwork revealed that I was post menapausal.  He apologized and swore he'd never thought this would've been the problem as I really hadn't experienced any symptoms other than weight gain.  He even told me to go out and celebrate.  I'm down and out about the weight gain but elated that my doctor actually found something wrong - - and that I"m not completely crazy!

[Unhappy1968]

I thought I was going nuts!!! It is really some comfort to know that I am not going through this alone. I'm 40 and out of nowhere I've gained @ least 20lbs and cannot seem to stop! My moods r Crazy, and within minutes I go from happy, depressed and completely full of rage. My confidence is gone and I cannot find cloths to fit me properly. My periods r all over the place!! From 1 in 2-3 mths to 1 for 3 wks on and off!! I Used to feel sexy and now I want to hide. Oh and Sex, what is it like to want it?? I feel Empty and I am not the Happy person I used to be. This is a mental torture from Hell!! I feel like I've lost myself and eventually I will loose the man I love because I don't even want to be with me.

[Cindee56]

Well, I am 52 and started gaining weight around 40.  It started like 4 or 5 lbs. a year.  By 45, I was in the menopause.  I am post menopausal now, and the weight has added up to about 40-50 extra lbs.  I have tried everything--I have always watched my weight and exercised, counting calories since I was a teenager.  I did Weight Watchers, E-diets, a cardiovascular diet from my doctor, low-calorie plans, low carb.  Nothing has worked.

To make things worse, I have other medical problems:  high blood pressure (weight gain does not help this), high cholesterol, osteoarthritis in my knees and feet, hypothyroid (medication did not stop the weight gain), and now fibromyalgia.  I feel terrible, achy and tired and in pain every day. I could care less about sex.  Everything is very dry and it's uncomfortable, plus the extra weight.   I'm depressed.  I don't feel good and I don't look good.

I wish I had some answers.  Doctors look at me like I'm just a lazy, fat old lady.  They don't understand.  I think part of the problem is that this doesn't happen to ALL women.  I have two sisters who are still slim and don't have pain and health issues.  There are women at the gym I go to that look great and they are even older than I am.  

If I could lose some weight, it would really help with my knee and feet pain.  If anyone has any ideas, I would love to hear them!

[kristin970]

Cindy,
Have you tried natural hormone therapy. Try getting a salivary hormone analysis and see where your hormones are at, sounds lke they're all over the shop! Natural hormones (bio-identical hormones) can really help some women with weight gain and moods, facial hair etc. Fibromyalgia is a pet of mine...I have it. I find SAMe works wonders, it increases circulating serotonin and helps with the pain - double whammy - depression and pain relief. I also adopt a low oxalate diet and that has also improved my pain. After 4 years I am nearly pain free.
Good luck
Kristin

[partlysunny]

I have had all of the same sypmtoms as everyone on this post! Used to be a skinny active thing, and in the course of 3 years, without changing a thing, am tired, achy and getting fat! Gained about 18 lbs in 3 years while working out and continuing to watch my diet.
I have recently had good luck with at least feeling better and being able to stop the hot flashes with Phyto B..it is a natural estoril/progesterone supplement. Still not much help with the weight..I just have to watch it like crazy and gain at the slightest indiscretion...seems the ONLY thing that helps me is upping my aerobic activity to 6 days a week for about 45 minutes....and adding light weight lifting..and even then I mostly stay even or lose a bit and I mean a BIT at a time..
Good luck..sure seems like the short end of the genetic straw to me!

[April2]

kristen, I'm interested in natural remedies. Can you tell us more? I had to push to get my hormones tested last week. The doctor was real reluctant because she said I was too young for Menopause. I'm 43. I still haven't heard back on the test results.
I'm thinking about going to a Naturalpathic doctor or nutritionist and spending the money to get my own tests run.
I've had the mood swings (crying at the drop of a hat, extra sensitive, etc.) It's driving my husband crazy! I mentioned it to the doctor and she just wanted to put me on an anti-depressant. I'm not depressed! I also have been having incredible breast pain every month for the last few months. They hurt so bad I can't even stand the shower. Is this a symptom of perimenopause? I can't seem to find much on it.
I also gained some weight. I try to eat healthy, for the most part. I don't think I have hot flashes yet, although I get up throughout the night to check the a/c or heat because I'm either too hot or too cold. That drives my husband crazy too, lol.
Could any of these be signs of perimenopause? I tried to post this a couple of other places but no one seems to really know.
Like I said, I'm interested in the more natural way to go for everything. I'd like to hear what you have to say. Also, you mentioned a website but I didn't see it? I hope you're still around. I noticed you last posted last month. Oh well, I figured it was worth a shot!

[Buzz1956]

I too am a bloated wreck, I am 52, my periods have just become 'weird' my most recent one lasted for 2 weeks.  I have been struggling with weight issues for the past 2 years but by and large maintaining an even keel at 148 pounds.  I watch what I eat, I 'jiggle' (walk 1 mile and run back) every day, always take the stairs, park at the far end of the parking lot etc., but have gained 8 pounds in the last month.  I had figured some of the weight gain was due to my period so didn't worry but now it has finished and I am heavier than before, help.  You mentioned a web site but didn't put a link.  Hope you are still watching, thanks.

[kristin970]

Hi,
Sorry, I have not logged on for a couple of weeks, so I've only just got your messages. My website link should be in my profile as I am not allowed to put it on my posts.
April, 43 is not too young to be going through menopause, I think you should change doctors. The mild temperature change in the night indicates that oestrogen production in declining which indicates more of menopause than perimenopause. With a dcline in oestrogen, there comes a decline in progesterone as well. Most doctors though will give you synthetic oestrogen becuase this helps to protect the lining of the uterus. Unfortunately if you are given oestrogen (especially synthetic) it will worsen the symptoms that you already have. Progesterone is the one thing that I can reccomend in balancing the oestrogen and the male hormones. If you have your ovaries you will still be producing a little oestrogen but a fair amount is produced in fat cells, so if you are overweight, it compounds the problem....then add in the synthetic oestroen and you have big 'fat' problems!
If your breasts are sore premenstrually then this is a lack of progesterone. I'm glad to hear you got some saliva tests, I just hope your GP is proficcient in reading them, a lot of doctors will say they are normal and you wasted a lot of money, this is because they are used to reading blod tests. Get a copy of the test and if you like let me know the outcome of the oestrogen and progesterone in the luteal phase, there should be more progesterone than oestrogen. Luteal phase is 15 days before your period.
Hope this helps a little and I will fix up my profile so you can access the website.

Cheers, and P.S. I know how difficult it is to find someone that is compassionate, but remember, you are going through a syndrome, it is not depression unless you have had your serotonin levels tested. Antidepressants most of the time will cause more weight gain and that can lead to more unhapiness.
Kristin

[April2]

Thanks for writing back! I still haven't heard from the doctor. And it was a blood test not a saliva test. Is that better? And is there certain things I should ask for to be tested? Because I asked the doctor if I could get my hormones checked and at first she was like "What do you mean by hormones?" So, I'm not even sure she tested me correctly.
I told her I've had a lot of anxiety and that stress was getting to me more and she started to write me a prescription for Zoloft! I told her I wasn't depressed and I wasn't interested in taking an anti-depressant. Then she wanted me to talk to a counselor and gave me someone's card. So, I guess she just thought I was a basket case and was just trying to get rid of me or something, lol. I wasn't real impressed with her. It was the first time I had seen her and she just seemed rushed and didn't really want to hear everything I had to say.
That's why I'm thinking about going out on my own and getting my own testing even though we probably can't afford it. I just want to feel better.
I'm especially interested in nutrition and what role that plays. I've been bugging my physical therapist about what supplements and vitamins he takes since he's in to all the natural stuff. I am interested in all of that. I just feel like nutrition plays a huge role in everything, how we feel, etc.
I just don't know enough about Menopause because my mother was thrown into it at an early age since she had a hysterectomy. So I can't even ask her.
Thanks for writing back! I feel like I have so many questions. There's so much I want to learn!

[kristin970]

Sounds like you should investigate a naturopath or complementary doctor who is a bit more compassionate about your situation. You're right, I think your GP is a bit rushed for time, I think when you give them these symptoms, it goes in the too hard basket so they put you in the depressed basket....a basket case!
But no we are not basket cases, we are hormonally disrupted.
A hormone blood test is different from saliva. A blood test only shows hormone levels that have already been taken up by the blood whereas the saliva shows what hormone levels are bio-available. This makes a big difference, the blood test could come back normal and you really need to be saliva tested in the luteal phase, not just any time of the cycle.
You can actually source the saliva tests and do them yourself. I am in Australia so when someone does one here, they have to have a doctor or naturopath to sign the form, you may not have to wherever you live? The cost is round AU$120-200. It depends on what you get tested for - oestrogen, pregesterone, DHEA, testosterone etc. You may want to get the lot tested, there are many good natural remedies to treat these disturbances.
Nutritionally, all I can suggest is that you have a healthy and balanced diet but do lots of exercise. Exercise makes us feel great, its not much fun thinking about HAVING to do it but after, you get a rush and you feel on top of the world.
I'm sure if you do a web search for salivary hormone analysis, there will be lots to choose from and they may be able to tell you who you can go and see, or  they may send you one.
I really feel for you becuase you have started a vicious cycle of no-one wanting to listen to you and everyone thinking you are depressed. Just keep searching and asking, you will finally find someone that you will click with and they will be able to help you.
The natural hormones can be prescibed to you and made up by a compounding pharmacist, otherwise you can buy it on the net, but you need to know what you need, it may be DHEA or pregesterone or anything, you cant really guess.(although it sounds like you need progesterone to me)
Keep me informed if you have any other questions.
Kristin

[yovi]

IM 36 AND FOR THREE YRS I HAVE BEEN BATTLING WEIGHT GAIN, MISSED PERIOD FOR MONTHS AT A TIME AND THEN ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, FOGGY MIND AND FINALLY THIS YR I WAS GOING THRU HOT FLASHES, SO WENT TO THE DR. SHE SAID I HAVE PERIMENOPAUSE,

TRIED PROVERA FOR 10 DAYS NOTHING NOW SHE WANTS ME TO GET ON THE PILL, WELL IM TERRIFIED I AM GOING TO GAIN MORE WEIGHT ON THE PILL (CONTRACEPTIVE PILLS) BUT SOME SAY I WONT B/C IT WILL HAVE THE REVERSE SIDE AFFECT I WILL LOSE WEIGHT IN MY MID SECTION AND UPPER BODY WEIGHT GAIN DUE TO THE LACK OF ESTROGEN AND PROGESTERONE IN MY BODY.  THE PILLS WILL REPLACE MY LOW HORMONES  AND THE BODY WILL LET GO OF THAT STORED BELLY FAT B/C IT WONT THINK THE BODY IS GOING THRU FAMINE. OMG!  I JUST WANT TO LOSE THIS DAM WEIGHT!!!! IM TAKING VITAMIN, IDORAL (IODINE), CLS, LECITHIM, FLAXSEED, VITAMIN B COMPLEX, AND L-CARITINE. TO HELP ME IM DESPERATE.

[kristin970]

Yovi,
If you are experiencing weight gain mostly in the torso then you may have more testosterone than needed. I am 'suggesting' that you may be low in oestrogen and progesterone, these two hormones will balance up the male hormones.
If you are oestrogen sensitive you may not be able to tolerate the Pill, the Pill can also make some symptoms worse, such as weight gain, depression and anxiety, everything you mentioned..... If you have taken the Pill before and its been ok then it may make things better.
My suggestion would be (as it has been to others) is to have a salivay hormone analysis, this will give you a reading of your circulating hormones, not the already taken up hormones seen in blood tests. Yes it will cost you and you usually have a problem finding someone who will perform it, ring around some Naturopaths to find out.
Your options in treatment if it is indeed your hormones is using Bio-Identical Hormones, they come in a skin cream and highly effective, they are from plants but have the same chemical makeup as our own hormones so there is no side-effects from our body reacting to something foreign.
Vitex agnus-castus is another herb that stimulates our own production of progesterone, it is very effective.
As for diet, tis a good idea to stick to a diet that inco-orporates a lot of fish and vegetables, this stimulates the hormone LEPTIN which gives us the full feeling so we don't eat more. Get a good sleep at night, this also stimulates LEPTIN. If you are a nightowl, the hormone GHRELIN is stimulated which makes us feel hungry.

Good luck with everything.

Kristin

P.S. Oh and just so you all know, anti-depressants such as Zoloft WILL cause weight gain in most people, try to avoid it if you can....

[blaise777]

I am 52, and have been going thru this for 9 years.  I don't really have the hot sweats but I do get either very hot or very cold.  Rarely feel comfortable.   The weight gain is the same as most of the other women.  25 pounds seems to be the magic number for alot of us.   The raging moods are the worst.   My mind seems to fill with a rage I've never known before.  I'm frequently tired and it seems so hard to focus at times.    I thought I would be done with all this by now.  Five years ago my doctor said I was almost done.  I've gone 8 months with no period and poof its back.  This last time I went 11 months and thought OK....I'm home free...and than in July, one month before my wedding, it hits.  I've had my period every month since.  And my new husband has a wife who is hormonal as can be.  I've gained this weight in the 3 years weve been together.  He doesn't care about that.  But I feel YUK!!  Is it really reality, or is there something else we can do to fix this.  

[punkinpie00]

I'm so glad I found this site!! I was beginning to feel so alone and felt like I was the only one with this problem. I had a partial hysterectomy in 2000, and had my left ovary removed in Sept. of 2008. I have been gaining weight since then and now am 20+ lbs. heavier than I was. I blame it on menapuase but don't want to accept the fact that I am getting older. I'm dating a man nine years younger than me and I know he loves me and my wieght, but I just feel "BLAH" all the time anymore. I have been on Zoloft for about 17 years and am trying to ween myself off. I'm down to 25 mgs. now. That's all the medication I take now. I've had so many surgeries on or near my abdomen (C-Section, gall bladder, ovary cyst drained, ovary removal, hysterectomy, DNC, lapro, four colonoscopies) plus some out patient procedures. I was taking Naproxen and Spironolactone and just stopped taking those. I've had to go back to my doctor two different times since the removal of my left ovary and get an injection in my belly (where my left ovary used to be) because of scar tissue and a trigger point. It's not been an easy ride, but the shots seem to help and I can stand the pain of the needle alot better than I can the pain of the scar tissue. I know I need to exercise and eat right, but it is just so hard!! I used to be this little petite thing, and everybody used to say I was soooo cute!! I don't get any comments like that anymore and it's very depressing. I just want to feel good again. I've had my thyroid checked and blood work and my doctor says I'm fine. My hormone levels are right where they need to be. So what is my problem? I'm not a lazy person, but do need to exercise more. Does anyone have any suggestions??

[LisaMiller12]

Hi, I am 43 and had a few things going on at once.  It started in Oct when it felt like I had a urine infection, it would burn when I pee and it only lasted a day. Thought it may have been something I ate-dunno. late Oct my periods were out-of-control! I was double padding with super-duper plus torpeedo tampons and still leaking through! I felt like I was hemeraging and gonna die. I started having this every 2 weeks, then every 10 days. I went to the dr and asked to be checked for Fibroids. Nothing. January, my urine started to have a strong odor. I went back to the dr. and he did a battery of tests to see what is up with all this. I had a very serious blatter infection right up to the kidneys. I had to have 3 bouts of antibiotics to clear this up. So what I thought were "hot flashes" I was having, were fever spikes. Well, the "hot flashes" continued after the infection was cleared and then by the end of March poof... gone were my periods and never to be seen again so far. I am bloated and not sleeping at night I am frustrated with my body and lack of sex drive and energy- I have good intentions to exercise, and then talk my way out of it every time. I was always self motivated. Now..... geesh I feel so lazy!
The dr told me that it was for sure that I was in menopause. I have to say, I'm liking not having my period- but I'm still on guard as I'm not sure really what to expect. The symptoms all sound so similar, yet everyone experiences them so different. I know I'm not at my peak of discomfort in this menopause thing yet, and I'm not sure how I'm going to deal with it, but I'm just glad I don't have the "crazies"..........YET. lol wish me luck ladies!  :)
Lisa

[Lillian67]

Wow--I am so glad I found this forum. Up to now I thought I was alone in feeling this way. I'm 42 (almost 43) and have been experiencing night sweats, mood swings, heavier and longer periods with spotting in between; forget about libido--if I never have sex again I'll be happy. One year ago I did the Weight Watchers program on my own and lost 20 pounds--and today I've gained it all back. And  that's watching what I eat and taking natural supplements.

My dr has checked my thyroid and hormonal levels, which supposedly came back "normal" but I'm not settling for that. I'm not the hypochondriac type, but I just know there's something not right with my body and the way I feel. I'm going to see an endocrinologist, who hopefully can help me.
Thanks to all my "fellow sisters" out there for being so transparent!

[Ladybird1948]

I am 61 and have gone thru all this all ready!

Products I used:  That helped me!
Vitex - Bring back your brain
Change-O-Life - Give you sleep - plus more  (Good Blend of herbs)
B12 - energy
Omega -3 Mood Formula - (Good Blend has DHA)
Green Tea - Good for All - Tablet and Tea
Evening Primrose Oil with Vitamin E - For me stopped dryness and promote the fsexual feels to return and the will to want to have a great sex life again!
Flexseed oil - for Well Being.
Mega Multi Minerals - for Well being
Calcium - for Well Being
Acidophilus - for a Sweet Body - for Well Being
Sun-Chlorella - for nutrients
A LOT OF WATER .. When you drink .. drink as much as you can.
RAW FOODS DAILY:  2 Apples - Banana - Carrots - Celery
Oatmeal Daily
String Cheese Daily
Yogurt Daily
Wheat Bread only OR No Bread ... Wrap Lunch with Romaine Lettuce
Protein
A Large Green Salad

EAT ALL DAY..... NO FOOD AFTER 6:00

Email me: ***@****