My Category D Breasts
No. Not cup size D, category D. I’m lucky to fill a B cup on a good day. Category D refers to my breast density, not cup size. Until earlier this week, I was more interested in my cup size. Then I learned that having extremely dense breasts is a more significant risk factor than […]
Do You Have Dense Breasts?
I’ve known since I was 40 that I have dense breasts, but I did not understand the risks. Last night I learned that I have the highest breast density, category D. I also learned that those of us with extremely dense breasts have a greater risk of developing breast cancer than someone with a family […]
Sleep Sabotage In Perimenopause
Long before my sleep sabotage in perimenopause started, my sleep quality started to deteriorate in university. My regular sleep schedule was impacted by late night studying, cheap draught beer, parties, euchre tournaments, and the occasional night where I would worry about not doing well. I view that occasional late-night worry as the birth of my […]
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: What You Need to Know
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), is an extreme form of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) that can have serious physical and emotional effects. It affects up to 8% of all menstruating women, and it can be a difficult condition to manage. Here is what you need to know about PMDD. Causes of PMDD The cause of PMDD is […]
Taking Birth Control Pills at 49
Yes, you read that correctly. I recently started taking birth control pills at 49. I don’t need to prevent pregnancy. My husband has had a vasectomy. Twice. What I do need is some reprieve from a menstrual cycle that has become demonic. I was recently diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and my doctor prescribed […]
A Trusted Pharmacist In Perimenopause
Perimenopause has been challenging for me. Overcoming these challenges required finding the right medical doctor and a variety of other health care providers that have played a key role in my menopausal journey. In addition to my doctor, my health care team includes a dietitian, a pelvic floor specialist, a psychologist, and a pharmacist. I […]
Dear, Vulva. An Apology.
Dear, Vulva. As I continue to struggle my way through perimenopause and come to terms with the fact that my 50th birthday is mere months away, I feel compelled to apologize. Yes, to you. There are so many reasons for this apology I’m not quite sure where to begin. Perhaps best to start with the […]
Perimenopause is Hot
Let me explain why perimenopause is hot. I have a sudden feeling of unease as I watch my colleague start to struggle through a presentation. Normally razor sharp, engaging, and quick witted, she can handle any room and the harshest of critics. She is what my grandmother would call a crackerjack. Today she struggles to […]
Sleep Quality In Perimenopause
This used to describe my sleep quality in perimenopause: I jolt awake at 2 am. I don’t look at the clock. Rule #1 of sleep club: We don’t talk about sleep club. Rule #2: We don’t look at the clock. Ever. I Know What Time It Is I don’t look, but I know what time […]
What Does The Word Menopause Mean?
We don’t know enough about menopause. Even the word menopause can be confusing – see below. And we know even less about perimenopause. Menopause and its related stages are under researched and underserved; most doctors receive little to no training. And we are often expected to just ‘get through it’. None of this is okay. […]