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How do you know . . . ?
When I turned 50, I went to the doctor to see if I was approaching menopause. The doctor ordered a blood test, and after seeing the results, he said no, I wasn't even close to the change. I am terrified of needles, considered the blood test a form of medieval torture, and will never have another one. I don't think I even want to go to the doctor anymore because he always wants to run a blood test. I think he is a vampire. Now, I am nearly 54 and a strange thing has happened. My period (which has always hit like clockwork) didn't happen. It is eight days late. My purse is filled with tampons, but I do not need them. I went through the PMS symptoms -- bloating, pressure in my lower back. But no period. Could this be menopause? Or just the result of being over-stressed? Why do I feel so bloated? If I have no period, will the bloating and back pressure go away?
Hi, After reading your comment about being afraid of needles, I see we have something in common. I can not stand needles! I have to say, that I do get blood work done when I have too though. It seems the more you do it, the easier it gets. I am 43 and still get sooo nervous though! I hope things get better for you.
Thank you for your comment, it looks like I have some research to do. I have to wonder how my grandmothers got through this without a computer. It is more complicated than I thought.
The reason the doctor says he wants to run frequent blood tests is because I have high cholesterol (400+). He is much more concerned about this than my menopause issues. I went to a different doctor and he wanted to run blood tests, too. So, I have given up on seeking professional advice.
Thanks for offering yours!
The reason the doctor says he wants to run frequent blood tests is because I have high cholesterol (400+). He is much more concerned about this than my menopause issues. I went to a different doctor and he wanted to run blood tests, too. So, I have given up on seeking professional advice.
Thanks for offering yours!
It could be the beginning but from my personal experience and from all the literature I've read periods don't just stop and never return. Reaching full blown menopause is a path all its own.
Google the term, read up on it, educate yourself on what to look for. There are many symptoms of peri-menopause that if you're aware of them you'll know if any of them apply to you.
Sorry you feel that way about blood testing, it is the only way to know for certain. Not only with menopause but with many any other illnesses.
~Grace
Google the term, read up on it, educate yourself on what to look for. There are many symptoms of peri-menopause that if you're aware of them you'll know if any of them apply to you.
Sorry you feel that way about blood testing, it is the only way to know for certain. Not only with menopause but with many any other illnesses.
~Grace
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