Menopausal symptoms!

[Lady D]

Ok, ladies, I know some of you are probably going through the menopausal deal. I think I may be partially. I am 46 and for about a year now my monthly has been irregular on occasion. But for several years they have lasted only around 3 days. I have noticed over the past year my monthly has been anywhere from 7 to 14 days late on occasion and other times 3 or 4 days early and then I even had a few months that skipped totally. My gynecologist told me I was too young. Started when I was 11. I am always fatigued and don't sleep well at night alot of nights and have these weird flushed feelings on my face and neck and these weird chills occasionally on my arms. Don't always have them though. Not to mention the creepy crawly sensations on my legs, especially at night. And of course, there is the joint achiness and tenderness. Could this possibly be what is and has been going on with me over the past couple of years? Would appreciate the input!

[Miss Kitty]

:eek:

[Cil]

lady
Sure sounds menopausal to me.
My mom was exactly your age when all that stuff began happening; I have another friend who also was 46. It can happen.
I've had several of your delightful symptoms this year, but I am 51.

[Miss Kitty]

lady, I would get a second opinion. 46 is NOT too young...happens all the time. Hit me at 45. Ask for a hormone level blood test. And...no, you are not going crazy!!! Just look at me! :biggrin:

[Lady D]

I thought so. Maybe I should have not opened up this can of worms as someone I know personally got all bent out of shape because of me mentioning this on here. Just trying to figure it out. I can get some answers on the sight Minnie Pauz but it is hard to get a reply from anyone on there. Even though that sight is for that. I think I shocked Sueshore! My doctor says not possible. Sorry I brought this up, I have been alot grumpier than usual also.

[Franny]

I thought so. Maybe I should have not opened up this can of worms as someone I know personally got all bent out of shape because of me mentioning this on here. Just trying to figure it out. I can get some answers on the sight Minnie Pauz but it is hard to get a reply from anyone on there. Even though that sight is for that. I think I shocked Sueshore! My doctor says not possible. Sorry to bring this up since I got a lashing for it on this end.

It's natural and all us women have or will go thru this!!! :cool:

[Beachlover2]

Welcome to my world!!!

Trust me - it will get worse. :rolling: :rolling:

[kathydwells]

I am 44 will be 45 in September. Lady, I am experiencing everything exactly as you are. My doc did a hormone test on me and told me that I was not going through the "change" yet. I told him he was crazy as hell. I knew I was. (he is a friend of mine, so I can talk to him like that.:)) Anyway, I never know when, how long or even if I will have the "." in any given month, and I used to be like clock work, every 28 days without fail. So trust me, it is what is and it will get worse from what I am told. It is just a fact of life. I am going to go through it with dignity and grace. :biggrin:

[Cil]

Sounds like peri-menopause can last a few years. And years.

And lady, I appreciate you bringing it up here, and I appreciate Kurt letting us talk about this stuff. ;-) I know it's kind of embarrassing and weird and all, but that's life--just one phase after another, and for some reason, female stuff seems to be the last taboo subject which everyone skirts (no pun intended) around.

I had that hormone blood test done (as well as a thyroid test) when I lost a lot of weight (I know, usually the opposite happens.) The test said I still had plenty of estrogen flowing around, but I knew what I knew. Sure enough, more and more of those symptoms began occurring over the following (this) year. I'm not taking hormones or anything, just kinda hangin' in there trying to not be too b****y.

lol Kathydwells
You'll get through it with dignity, grace and naturally blonde hair.

[ShallowsNole]

Sounds like you are perfectly normal unaltered fortysomething to me!

[kathydwells]

lol Kathydwells
You'll get through it with dignity, grace and naturally blonde hair.

Yep I am proud of it. :biggrin:

This was just sent to me via email. Sounds like it would go good in this here thread.

Attitude is Everything.

There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and noticed she had only three hairs on her head.

"Well," she said, "I think I'll braid my hair today." So she did and she had a wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head.

"H-M-M, " she said, "I think I'll part my hair down the middle today."

So she did and she had a grand day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head.

"Well," she said, "Today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail." So she did and she had a fun, fun day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head.

"YEA!" she exclaimed, "I don't have to fix my hair today!"

Attitude is everything.

[Lady D]

:oops: I too was like clockwork every 28 days until April 2005. I wouldn't think he would take this off as he didn't bother taking off all the talk about the guy on the beach with the two sombreros, one covering his face and one the other part. That was too funny! Kathy, I like the Attitude is Everything.

[dbuck]

That's good KDW!

Sincerely,
Weepy, Itchy, and b*t**y

[Johnrudy]

Yes, that is definately peri-menopausal and you probably should get another 2nd opinion. Mid-40's is not too young. Thyroid too should be checked.

But, the bigger question would be, if your doc didn't not suspect menopause, what was his/her thoughts on your symptoms???

I'm 49 and semi-peri-menopausal. My symptoms are not as extreme as yours - yet. Just irregular and extremely irritable sometimes. Zoloft does reallly help! :cool:

[Lady D]

My doctor didn't really have any thoughts on my symptoms. She just has this smile on her face, and doesn't offer any other explanation, just says I am too young. I have one other symptom that has to do with a lack of estrogen I think, but cannot disclose what it is. Kurt would probably yank this post off if I mentioned it. I probably should find me another doctor. They have never found anything wrong with me health wise. I am fatigued alot so could that be a thyroid problem? But I also experience alot of nights of not sleeping well. And unfortunately, a little over a year ago I was a good weight and now I have gained a good bit I am trying to get that back off. And do I exercise.

[Smiling JOe]

I thought it was called, "mental pause.":floor:

[Lady D]

Smiling Joe, I agree! Hee Hee! Things do make you more mental during all of this.

[Miss Kitty]

I thought it was called, "mental pause.":floor:

That's right and...Men will pause!!!

[Ocean Lover]

Attitude is everything.[/size][/font]




Loved this. :clap_1:

[CastlesOfSand]

That's right and...Men will pause!!!

:floor: I love Miss Kitty!!!! I too am having these little signs.

[audie]

great - something else to look forward to now that i turned 40 :blink:

[Lady D]

The thing I worry about getting is osteoporosis. A woman I work just turned 50 and she stopped two years ago at 48. But I drink alot of milk so hopefully I won't have the brittle bone problem. She does. But is is 5 ft. 8 in. tall and only weighs 115 lbs. Way under weight for her height. One friend of hers told her she has food issues! I believe it also. She used to eat a half of a half of a sandwich and nothing else for lunch. She never eats all of anything she fixes and she eats lean cuisine meals for lunch and doesn't need to be on those. She rarely eats all of that.

[Cil]

You don't have to drink milk to get calcium, though.

Yogurt and dark leafy green vegies are excellent sources of calcium.

Exercise and sunshine is good for your bones, too.

These days, now the scientists are saying that taking calcium supplements may not do much good at all.

Better to meet calcium requirements through food (rss.topix.net/content/revhealth/1005764876237790598737215026591313303521)

[iwishiwasthere]

My doctor didn't really have any thoughts on my symptoms. She just has this smile on her face, and doesn't offer any other explanation, just says I am too young. I have one other symptom that has to do with a lack of estrogen I think, but cannot disclose what it is. Kurt would probably yank this post off if I mentioned it. I probably should find me another doctor. They have never found anything wrong with me health wise. I am fatigued alot so could that be a thyroid problem? But I also experience alot of nights of not sleeping well. And unfortunately, a little over a year ago I was a good weight and now I have gained a good bit I am trying to get that back off. And do I exercise.


Have your doctor do as thyroid test....simple blood work. Mine was borderline and he put me on synthroid...made a world of difference. At least you will know what it is not. As fo the second opinion, that is a good idea.

[Donna]

Consider, friends...that if women seem crazy several days out of every month due to low estrogen levels...men are there all the time! And (often) these are the men who are telling you there is nothing going on. Just a little perspective.

Here's another perspective: My mother and all her friends are in their mid-to-late 80s and one just passed away at a healthy age 101. They are never in the hospital, none have had breast (or any other kinds of) cancer. And none of them had hysterectomies. I asked myself what the common denominators might be. Well, they live in a small town where the little old ladies are administered to as if they were Chinese Empresses, for starters. So no stress. But part two is that not a single one of them had estrogen replacement therapy (ERT). They just got crazy for a few years (And with some, who would have known the difference? Beware the woman who says she could tell no difference.) and managed to grind their way through it.

Now the good news, from a post-menopausal female. This stuff ends. You will stop having hot flashes. You will once again be able to drink a glass of wine without taking a cold shower afterwards. Your skin will once again become smooth and silky, without that flushed look. You will stop retaining water, although age and/or inactivity can result in our having a pretty good grip on our solids. You will regain the urge to merge. And you will have done it without the possibility of risking your life by taking hormones that nature had an idea you no longer needed.

Hang in there, lady friends. Now, why in the world would you want to lose your edge, having come this far in life?!? :lolabove:

[Lady D]

I have no problem eating dark leafy green vegetables and love yogurt. I eat alot of salads. Love raw spinach as a salad. Cannot get out and enjoy the sun much here for the mosquitoes and incidences of west nile virus here. We take a evening walk though. We were bike riding until about 5 weeks ago because I injured the back of my right leg, had shooting pains up the back of my leg for about two or three weeks and had to lay off of riding. Trying to get back to some exercise so I can get back out on our bikes. I do not take calcium tablets. I do eat alot of cottage cheese and drink a good bit of milk though. The woman I work with that has osteoporosis is already developing that hump in her back and she just turned 50 last month.

[Cil]

Lady
That's scary about your friend with the hump in her back. Is she by any chance on the short-of-stature side? I've heard that this can be more of a problem with shorter people.
I love salads. I really kind of freak out if I don't get them regularly. I hope this helps me, but I'd do it anyway.
Donna
Thanks for the encouraging words. I really am not interested in taking hormone therapy, but after what I was dealing with back in November, I am kind of glad to *know* (maybe it's sort of a version of the placebo effect) that I have that little package of estrogen pills in a drawer. There is no majestic Chinese Empress treatment here, but I am working on my self esteem and just try to take care of myself--sometimes I have to snarl a bit because I have always lived with men (husbands and sons) and they can occasionally be clueless. ;-)

[Lady D]

:roll: Cil, she actually is around 5'7" or 5'8" but only weighs around 115 pounds. Her legs look like pencils and the skin around her knees is wrinkly because of no meat on her. She says she has fibromyalgia also. I do get tired of hearing her moaning and groaning across from my desk. It gets on my nerves. I am the short one at 5'4" but I do not have that problem, thank goodness!

[Paula]

Ask your doctor for a bone density exam and you'll get a baseline on your bone density now and can track it for potential osteoporosis. Also, there's a supplement you can get at the grocery store called "Estroven" I think. I believe it's all herbal (black cohosh and things like that). Good stuff! And I think mental pause is fun -- at least you get to say "don't mess with me" and people listen because they get scared.

[Lady D]

Paula, I may have some of that. I have something up in my cabinet. Maybe I will get it out and check the date on it. I have what is called Healthy Woman Soy Menopause Supplement. And it is still in date. Until the end of June anyway. There were only 28 to the box. Any other herbal things you know about that wouldn't be harmful but would be helpful. I have been grumpier than usual and more often.

[dbuck]

Thanks Donna, sometimes I wonder if life will ever be normal again.

[Johnrudy]

Thanks Donna, sometimes I wonder if life will ever be normal again.
Oh no... is it REALLY THAT bad?? Which is the worst symptom?

[Donna]

Hot flashes are pretty bad, like your body is a furnace with a non-functioning thermostat. You wake up in the middle of the night, blazing hot and drenched. So you're always dealing with some level of sleep deprivation, too. :eek:

[Lady D]

:( Sleep disturbance, and of course, the fatigue because of the sleep troubles. And the creepy crawly sensations like something is always crawling on me. I hate that. The flushed feelings I occasionally have on my face and back of my neck haven't gotten that bad yet to bother me much, nor the chills on my arms either. I don't like the achiness and tenderness in my joints. The book I have says that can be a symptom. Have tenderness pretty much month round in an area women are very familiar with being sore!

[dbuck]

Oh no... is it REALLY THAT bad?? Which is the worst symptom?Johnrudy, I have alot of night sweats, that I can deal with. But waking up at 2 and staying awake until 4 was KILLING me. During that 2 hours I guess you could say I was having anxiety attacks, worrying about things that would be a passing thought in the day but at 2 a.m. it was a monumental worry.:eek: Just total brain chatter. Finally got something to take care of that. But the fatigue and itchy skin are also very bothersome. Now I take Fero something (iron), because I have become anemic. It's just one thing after another. And what's even worse...I'm not as sharpe mentally as I once was, boy I hate to admit that.:bang:

[Paula]

It really is different from person to person. Mine wasn't that bad at all -- took that over the counter herbal stuff I got at the grocery store and felt pretty much fine within a few weeks of starting that stuff. (My mom and one of my sisters was pretty much the same way -- no big deal). I think I was on it less than 6 months and am doing nothing at all now. Just living like usual, though I still like to use the mental pause warnings when I want to(e.g., "Don't mess with me") -- no one really needs to know I'm actually fine. :cool:

[Lady D]

dbuck, I take one 120 mg capsule daily of Ginkgo Biloba. You can buy it at Walmart or most pharmacies or health food stores. It helps maintain circulation to the arms, legs, and brain. And in addition, it helps improve memory, especially occasional mild memory problems associated with aging. I have been taking it for a long time. I've noticed a difference.

[dbuck]

dbuck, I take one 120 mg capsule daily of Ginkgo Biloba. You can buy it at Walmart or most pharmacies or health food stores. It helps maintain circulation to the arms, legs, and brain. And in addition, it helps improve memory, especially occasional mild memory problems associated with aging. I have been taking it for a long time. I've noticed a difference.
Thanks lady, I have wondered if Ginkgo really worked. I will give it a try. I take every other vitamin known to man, may as well add Ginkgo.

[Johnrudy]

ITCHY SKIN???? Several of you have mentioned that. Brother, I have that ALL the time and didn't know that was a menopausal sign. THAT really DOES drive me bezerk. I slather on lotion, I keep a back scrather in every room, and resort to Benedryl some times. Oh good grief.

The sleep deprivation will be a problem, seeing as I am an exceptionally light sleeper already.

[Beachlover2]

Sleep deprivation is a huge problem. I have a friend who is a nurse and feels that the b*t*h comes out due to lack of sleep. I spend most nights waking up a million times either taking the covers off and turning on the fan from night sweats - too waking up freezing and covering up again. Getting old isn't easy!!!!

[whitesands]

Another thing to check out, if you like, are "bio-identical" hormones. Suzanne Sommers and Robyn McGraw (Dr. Phil's better half) are huge fans.

[Cil]

white sands (pretty username!)
What are bio-identical hormones? Is it like synthetic estrogen or something?

[Ocean Lover]

white sands (pretty username!)
What are bio-identical hormones? Is it like synthetic estrogen or something?

I was always hoping by the time I reached MP there would be some kind of mirace pill that would make symptoms non-existant. Could this be it?

[Miss Kitty]

I've been taking Estroven (otc) daily. My symptoms were not so bad...just got a bit warm. Sleep issues come and go...kinda' like my memory. However, I haven't forgotten how much I USED to weigh! :biggrin:

[whitesands]

white sands (pretty username!)
What are bio-identical hormones? Is it like synthetic estrogen or something?

Thanks for the compliment Cil :oops: :wub:

Bioidentical hormones are biologically identical to our own natural hormones...estrogen, etc. I first heard about this on Larry King. He had Suzanne Somers on as a guest. She swears by them.

Here's an "overview" I found that pretty much says it all in a nutshell click here (www.thirdage.com/news/articles/ALT02/05/06/29/ALT02050629-01.html#81). If you want to do a google search, you'll find a boatload more stuff about them too.

[Lady D]

This book I have references perimenopause symptoms to be menstrual irregularities, weight gain, fluid retention, sore breasts, aches and pains, tricky gut, migraines, sleep disruption, fatigue and decreasing short term memory.

Menopause symptoms, hot flashes, night sweats, dryness, eyes, mouth, nose, etc., decreased libido, dizziness, migraines, sleep disorder, fatigue, achiness, formication, which is the itchy feeling or crawling sensation, decreased short term memory, emotional extremes: depression, sadness and grief, apathy, rage, intolerance.

Unfortunately, I am experiencing a few out of the second category, like the itchy feeling or crawling sensation, and intolerance more so than ever at times. The dryness of the eyes and nose also. Just about all in the first category, have headaches but don't think they are migraines though. Looks like I am an in between person.

[audie]

another symptom i am loving - acne !!! i get one zit healed and two more pop up. it's almost like reverse puberty.

[Lady D]

I have to honestly say I don't have a problem with that. Hardly had any as a teenager. Thanks to Noxema every day! It really works. I would work extra hard to get rid of one of those at my age!

[Lady D]

I am reviving this thread. I am finally starting to have more than flushed feelings. Am having total hot flashes on occasion, not all the time, where I am hot one minute and turn the air down or turn a fan on me and then turn it off. Not having night sweats much but have on occasion. And I am tired of the weight problem when I do not overeat, nor do I eat after 6:00 p.m.! And I know for sure weight gain is one of the issues that is common. Harder to get the weight off. Swelling around the ankles. And now another thing is coming up, farther apart cycles, like two months apart. The past two, one just under two months apart, and this one just over two months apart since the previous one. Is this common??? Don't want to embarrass any men on here, this really should be moved to the sports and recreation section where the the SoWell in Sowal thread is.

Better yet, we need a section for topics for ladies only on here.

[Minnie]

I recommend the Wisdom of Menopause by Dr. Christine Northrup, it will answer all your questions and offers some suggestions for relief, but should not be replaced by talking to your Doctor.

[Lady D]

I recommend the Wisdom of Menopause by Dr. Christine Northrup, it will answer all your questions and offers some suggestions for relief, but should not be replaced by talking to your Doctor.

I do talk to my gynecologist. Two years ago she said there was no way I was having pre-menopausal symptoms, flushed feelings constantly on my neck and face and upper body. Saying I was too young. Now over the past year at least at times I am skipping, I've skipped two times in a row now. Never done that before but have about two or three other times spread out over the past two years. All she said back in March was that you almost skipped a month. I go back next month and will tell her that I went 9 weeks between this time. I am keeping up with them. I mark my calendar at the beginning.

[Mermaid]

:( Sleep disturbance, and of course, the fatigue because of the sleep troubles. And the creepy crawly sensations like something is always crawling on me. I hate that. The flushed feelings I occasionally have on my face and back of my neck haven't gotten that bad yet to bother me much, nor the chills on my arms either. I don't like the achiness and tenderness in my joints. The book I have says that can be a symptom. Have tenderness pretty much month round in an area women are very familiar with being sore!

That happened to me last week! All day long I felt that strange sensation. Do you know what it turned out to be? I was out in the garden and two little inch worms got under my clothes and started running the inch worm marathon all over my back and shoulders and arms. They were the cutest little things. Not that that stopped me from flushing them down the toilet once I nabbed them!

I was in the library yesterday and saw two books on the new book shelf, side by side. A mother-daughter pair of books if ever I saw them. The first was The Everything Health Guide to PMS and the other was The Everything Health Guide to Menopause. Something for whatever end of the spectrum you are on. :biggrin:

I feel cheated of an experience because I think I've skipped over menopause. I had/have a few warm flushes here and there and that's it. No more periods any more. I am no longer a productive female. Poof! Here one minute and gone the next. I was so looking forward to all the drama (at least for just a little bit of time) but it never happened.

[Lady D]

That happened to me last week! All day long I felt that strange sensation. Do you know what it turned out to be? I was out in the garden and two little inch worms got under my clothes and started running the inch worm marathon all over my back and shoulders and arms. They were the cutest little things. Not that that stopped me from flushing them down the toilet once I nabbed them!

I was in the library yesterday and saw two books on the new book shelf, side by side. A mother-daughter pair of books if ever I saw them. The first was The Everything Health Guide to PMS and the other was The Everything Health Guide to Menopause. Something for whatever end of the spectrum you are on. :biggrin:

I feel cheated of an experience because I think I've skipped over menopause. I had/have a few warm flushes here and there and that's it. No more periods any more. I am no longer a productive female. Poof! Here one minute and gone the next. I was so looking forward to all the drama (at least for just a little bit of time) but it never happened.

I haven't had many problems with actual hot flashes, but one night I woke up ringing wet with sweat. I've never done that before that time. Hopefully that will be the only time. I cannot seem to be comfortable anymore temp wise. I am 48, have been going through the cycle thing since I turned 11. I hope I am getting close to stopping. I know this can go on for years and years. I've already been experiencing some things for about two or three years now. I hope I will stop like that, poof.

Minnie and Mermaid, thanks for the book suggestions. Might look for them on Amazon.

[cp]

three things ladies:
1. i just always start reading and didn't notice any dates until Ladyd called Miss Kitty by another name in one post!
2. Welcome to my world ,actually the only problem I have still are the "personal summer" moments!
3. If you get the chance to go to the musical "Menopause" go! I saw when I was in Jax,too funny!

[Mermaid]

http://www.amazon.com/Everything-Health-Guide-Menopause-control/dp/1598694057/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1211512581&sr=1-1

You might find it at the library like I did. The call number is 618.175, so you can find it easily in the stacks. Some of the chapter titles:

Perimenopause--adjusting to the changes
Coping with hot flashes
The new you--managing physical changes
Managing Cognitive and Neurological changes (my mind, where did it go?)
But I'm still a woman, right?--menopause and sexuality
Deciding whether hormone therapy is right for you
Alternatives to MHT

and more. the book looks pretty easy to read and understandable.

[Lady D]

three things ladies:
1. i just always start reading and didn't notice any dates until Ladyd called Miss Kitty by another name in one post!
2. Welcome to my world ,actually the only problem I have still are the "personal summer" moments!
3. If you get the chance to go to the musical "Menopause" go! I saw when I was in Jax,too funny!

Hey CP, I guess my brain is not functioning normal, I'm confused by your #1 point. A good while ago Miss Kitty used to be Sueshore. Maybe that is what you are referring to as to me calling her something else.

It really must not be functioning normal, don't get #2 either. :lol: Now Menopause the musical has already been here and gone, about a month or so ago. I am sure it was funny.

[Johnrudy]

My doc told me that you need to complete one full year w/o a period to assume your cycle is complete and you are no longer fertile. Just be careful!

I have gone months and months thinking I'm finally done, then boom - - with no warning at all, I can be at church or at a concert and I'm panicking to find that one emergency tampon in the bottom of my cosmetic bag and searching for a restroom in an unfamiliar place. Bizarre. Then I have 4 - 5 more regular to semi-regular months and then I'll have another stretch of 6 months when I think I'm done again. :roll:

Just make sure you are prepared when you least expect it.

.

[Lady D]

My doc told me that you need to complete one full year w/o a period to assume your cycle is complete and you are no longer fertile. Just be careful!

I have gone months and months thinking I'm finally done, then boom - - with no warning at all, I can be at church or at a concert and I'm panicking to find that one emergency tampon in the bottom of my cosmetic bag and searching for a restroom in an unfamiliar place. Bizarre. Then I have 4 - 5 more regular to semi-regular months and then I'll have another stretch of 6 months when I think I'm done again. :roll:

Just make sure you are prepared when you least expect it.

.


I've heard that also. And I am always prepared. I keep one in the glove compartment, in my purse, some at work. A co-worker of mine did just all of a sudden stop, and at 48 years old.

[Mystified]

Now the 'experts' claim that 15 minutes of sun (w/o sunscreen) 3 x's a week can inhibit cancer's. Jeessh!!!

[2bohemians]

Ok ... while we are all on this subject of girly issues ....
Have you ladies heard of the Diva Cup (http://www.divacup.com/) ?

[Lady D]

Ok ... while we are all on this subject of girly issues ....
Have you ladies heard of the Diva Cup (http://www.divacup.com/) ?

I haven't. Will have to check that out.

[Cil]

Ok ... while we are all on this subject of girly issues ....
Have you ladies heard of the Diva Cup (http://www.divacup.com/) ?
heh
Yeah, I had one (back in the days when I needed it!) It was *not* the actual Diva Cup, just an earlier version of it, same exact concept.
It actually was okay, it worked and everything, but for some reason, I don't know if it was a coinky-dink or not, once I had kids I quit using it.
When this thread began, I was 51, now it's almost precisely two years later and I am that much further down the menopause road. Still keep a box of OBs in the drawer (and one in the purse) but it has been a full year without a period, a quiet winter/spring with few flashes, and I just gulp the occasional herbal supplement, Hot Flash, made by Source Naturals..
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GFSVMSHot Flash
I had some major "power surges" last summer, and may yet again this year, we'll see.

[ShallowsNole]

Diva Cup...I can just picture being at a game, khaki shorts, climbing to row way-up-there, and the dang thing get out of place or tip over. :yikes: Fortunately, I no longer have to worry about THAT...:D

And to whoever said to "be careful" when you start skipping around, amen! My mom told me she stopped using whatever it was she used the first time she missed, at the age of 41. I was born two weeks after her 42nd b'day! :eek:

[Beach Runner]

You probably haven't heard Afroman sing "Colt 45" (it's hilarious, but nasty :floor:). Here are the beginning lyrics:

Hey, check this out, man.
There was this blind man, right?
He was feelin' his way down the street with a stick, right?
He walked past this fish market, you know what I'm sayin'?
He stopped, he took a deep breath, and he said,
"Snfffffff, woooo! Good morning, ladies!"

I can relate to these lyrics because, thanks to menopause and a low estrogen level, I have had vaginitis since January. It's so embarrassing. I've been on several rounds of meds, including Clindesse, Metronidazole (which makes you sick as a dog if you have just one glass of wine), Flagyl, and Gynacort. Now I'm on Estrace twice a week and RePHresh once a week. Part of the problem is that I can't take any oral antifungals because I have long QT syndrome (heart abnormality). There is a long list of meds (including antifungals, certain antibiotics like a Z-Pac, anything OTC with a "D" in it such as Robitussin D, etc.) that could give me a fatal heart arrhythmia. The antifungal Fluconazole would probably take care of it, but my primary physician told me that under no circumstances should I take that.

Hubby calls me "Stinky.":lol::funn::rolling::rofl::biggrin:

[Cil]

Diva Cup...I can just picture being at a game, khaki shorts, climbing to row way-up-there, and the dang thing get out of place or tip over.
No, that wasn't a problem, believe me. It did work. Certainly it is not for a woman who is uncomfortable poking around "down there," though. It is obviously, um, *different* from using tampons or whatever.

And to whoever said to "be careful" when you start skipping around, amen! My mom told me she stopped using whatever it was she used the first time she missed, at the age of 41. I was born two weeks after her 42nd b'day! :eek:
heehee--but what a happy surprise you were, ShallowsNole.
At the height of the Depression, my mom and her identical twin were born right around their mom's 42 birthday (they had two strapping teenage brothers).
But I've been "fixed" so am not too worried about being fertile.
I could always feel my ovulation--haven't felt that in quite a while.

[Lady D]

heh
Yeah, I had one (back in the days when I needed it!) It was *not* the actual Diva Cup, just an earlier version of it, same exact concept.
It actually was okay, it worked and everything, but for some reason, I don't know if it was a coinky-dink or not, once I had kids I quit using it.
When this thread began, I was 51, now it's almost precisely two years later and I am that much further down the menopause road. Still keep a box of OBs in the drawer (and one in the purse) but it has been a full year without a period, a quiet winter/spring with few flashes, and I just gulp the occasional herbal supplement, Hot Flash, made by Source Naturals..
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GFSVMSHot Flash
I had some major "power surges" last summer, and may yet again this year, we'll see.

Don't think I'm in the market for the Diva Cup. I have some natural type supplement at the house that I have used when needed.

[jensieblue]

Oh, baby...sounds to me like you are well on your way. I too had a doctor tell me I was "way too young". What are these guys learning in med school. After living through the night sweats, jerky legs and irritability ( really more of a prob for my husband than me) the same doctor told me he thought I might be menopausal and should take hormones. I know your friends on the site have good recommendations for you. I know soy products are said to be helpful and contain an organic form of estrogen. I had a friend who took something called black cohash? but she couldn't decide if it was helping. The good news is it ends and life post menopausal is great!!!!!

[Lady D]

Oh, baby...sounds to me like you are well on your way. I too had a doctor tell me I was "way too young". What are these guys learning in med school. After living through the night sweats, jerky legs and irritability ( really more of a prob for my husband than me) the same doctor told me he thought I might be menopausal and should take hormones. I know your friends on the site have good recommendations for you. I know soy products are said to be helpful and contain an organic form of estrogen. I had a friend who took something called black cohash? but she couldn't decide if it was helping. The good news is it ends and life post menopausal is great!!!!!

Well, what showed up yesterday is non-existent today. And I know about the jerky leg thing. That has happened to me many times over the course of a few years. I believe I have something that has the soy in it at the house. Haven't had to use ot often though, but I do when I have the worst of the symptoms.

[Mystified]

'Colt 45'

Good one!!

[Ocean Lover]

Diva Cup...I can just picture being at a game, khaki shorts, climbing to row way-up-there, and the dang thing get out of place or tip over. :yikes: Fortunately, I no longer have to worry about THAT...:D

And to whoever said to "be careful" when you start skipping around, amen! My mom told me she stopped using whatever it was she used the first time she missed, at the age of 41. I was born two weeks after her 42nd b'day! :eek:

At first I read this way to literally.:lol: I have a friend that still refers to her last child as a v-baby. So I guess you were an m-baby. Thank God for that.;-)




You probably haven't heard Afroman sing "Colt 45" (it's hilarious, but nasty :floor:). Here are the beginning lyrics:

Hey, check this out, man.
There was this blind man, right?
He was feelin' his way down the street with a stick, right?
He walked past this fish market, you know what I'm sayin'?
He stopped, he took a deep breath, and he said,
"Snfffffff, woooo! Good morning, ladies!"

I can relate to these lyrics because, thanks to menopause and a low estrogen level, I have had vaginitis since January. It's so embarrassing. I've been on several rounds of meds, including Clindesse, Metronidazole (which makes you sick as a dog if you have just one glass of wine), Flagyl, and Gynacort. Now I'm on Estrace twice a week and RePHresh once a week. Part of the problem is that I can't take any oral antifungals because I have long QT syndrome (heart abnormality). There is a long list of meds (including antifungals, certain antibiotics like a Z-Pac, anything OTC with a "D" in it such as Robitussin D, etc.) that could give me a fatal heart arrhythmia. The antifungal Fluconazole would probably take care of it, but my primary physician told me that under no circumstances should I take that.

Hubby calls me "Stinky.":lol::funn::rolling::rofl::biggrin:

BR, your honesty is refreshing. haha God love ya.:wub:

Don't think I'm in the market for the Diva Cup. I have some natural type supplement at the house that I have used when needed.

Me either, I have a weak constitution.

[Minnie]

You probably haven't heard Afroman sing "Colt 45" (it's hilarious, but nasty :floor:). Here are the beginning lyrics:

Hey, check this out, man.
There was this blind man, right?
He was feelin' his way down the street with a stick, right?
He walked past this fish market, you know what I'm sayin'?
He stopped, he took a deep breath, and he said,
"Snfffffff, woooo! Good morning, ladies!"

I can relate to these lyrics because, thanks to menopause and a low estrogen level, I have had vaginitis since January. It's so embarrassing. I've been on several rounds of meds, including Clindesse, Metronidazole (which makes you sick as a dog if you have just one glass of wine), Flagyl, and Gynacort. Now I'm on Estrace twice a week and RePHresh once a week. Part of the problem is that I can't take any oral antifungals because I have long QT syndrome (heart abnormality). There is a long list of meds (including antifungals, certain antibiotics like a Z-Pac, anything OTC with a "D" in it such as Robitussin D, etc.) that could give me a fatal heart arrhythmia. The antifungal Fluconazole would probably take care of it, but my primary physician told me that under no circumstances should I take that.

Hubby calls me "Stinky.":lol::funn::rolling::rofl::biggrin:

Live culture yogurt everyday.

[Lady D]

Live culture yogurt everyday.

I eat that everyday. Dannon Activa.

[Beach Runner]

Live culture yogurt everyday.
Catch-22. Due to eating a high potassium diet (South Beach -- lots of V-8 juice, turkey, salmon, spinach, tomatoes, almonds, white beans, broccoli, soy) and a lot of yogurt for my "condition," my potassium level is slightly high. So my primary physician told me to cut out any food that is high in potassium for a month and then get my potassium level rechecked. BTW he also ran some other tests that came back normal.

[youngeryou]

Hi everybody,

For the ladies who worry about menopause and the constelation of symptoms, I have good news for you. Hormones are tremendously important for optimal health. We age because our hormone levels decrease. Maintaining optimal balance of Estrogens, Progesterone and all other hormones will help you achieve a healthy life. All hormones work in a symphony. Salivary or urine levels are necesary to monitor your levels. Hormones are necesary for prevention of diseases of aging including Alzheimer's, osteoporosis, cardiovascular etc.

Men also be aware that low Testosterone levels put them at risk of degenerative diseases. Optimal hormonal balance is strongly recommended for health and longevity.
Further information is found in our website. I will be glad to help.

Rodney D. Soto, M.D.
www.yyinstitute.com:D

[Lady D]

Hi everybody,

For the ladies who worry about menopause and the constelation of symptoms, I have good news for you. Hormones are tremendously important for optimal health. We age because our hormone levels decrease. Maintaining optimal balance of Estrogens, Progesterone and all other hormones will help you achieve a healthy life. All hormones work in a symphony. Salivary or urine levels are necesary to monitor your levels. Hormones are necesary for prevention of diseases of aging including Alzheimer's, osteoporosis, cardiovascular etc.

Men also be aware that low Testosterone levels put them at risk of degenerative diseases. Optimal hormonal balance is strongly recommended for health and longevity.
Further information is found in our website. I will be glad to help.

Rodney D. Soto, M.D.
www.yyinstitute.com:D

Yeah, but there is always talk that hormone replacement therapy can increase the risk of breast cancer.

[organicmama]

Ok ... while we are all on this subject of girly issues ....
Have you ladies heard of the Diva Cup (http://www.divacup.com/) ?

Do they work? I've been pondering them, but after three kids.... I don't know about that. I'll leave out the gory details about my fears....:floor:

I tried one similar to it years ago, pre-kids, and it wasn't so great. If there are moms who have used it and it's worked for them, I'd be willing to give it a try.

[organicmama]

Yeah, but there is always talk that hormone replacement therapy can increase the risk of breast cancer.

You are totally right, but it also depends on what hormones are being balanced and how. Finding the right balance....

This is not scientific in the way that I going to state this, but basically you can balance your estrogen (or more specifically the family of estrogens) through your progesterone levels. Also, pregnenolone is the "daddy" of all hormones and can be beneficial in synthesizing other hormones in your body. Again, not scientific and I don't want to be "nailed" for not being right on target with terminology, but trying to demonstrate that they are all related and it's not just taking an estrogen pill to increase your levels.

There have been a number of breast cancer cases in my birth mother's family, including her and my cousin, who was 27 at the time. It's part of the reason that I chose to breastfeed for 27-28 months each kid. 7 years of nursing total, almost straight through, except the Wedge (middle child) was weaned at the time we found out we were pg with Little Guy, so I had 9 months off.:yikes: It's also why I love soy, but I don't eat as much as I used to. I've read & heard too many negatives about it and don't digest it well.

[30A Skunkape]

You are totally right, but it also depends on what hormones are being balanced and how. Finding the right balance....

This is not scientific in the way that I going to state this, but basically you can balance your estrogen (or more specifically the family of estrogens) through your progesterone levels. Also, pregnenolone is the "daddy" of all hormones and can be beneficial in synthesizing other hormones in your body. Again, not scientific and I don't want to be "nailed" for not being right on target with terminology, but trying to demonstrate that they are all related and it's not just taking an estrogen pill to increase your levels.

There have been a number of breast cancer cases in my birth mother's family, including her and my cousin, who was 27 at the time. It's part of the reason that I chose to breastfeed for 27-28 months each kid. 7 years of nursing total, almost straight through, except the Wedge (middle child) was weaned at the time we found out we were pg with Little Guy, so I had 9 months off.:yikes: It's also why I love soy, but I don't eat as much as I used to. I've read & heard too many negatives about it and don't digest it well.

That is incredible. In my way of thinking you can pretty much tack 7 years on to your menarche age, and as I am sure you know, a later onset menarche is beneficial in reducing your risk of breast cancer. :clap:

[Cil]

It's also why I love soy, but I don't eat as much as I used to. I've read & heard too many negatives about it and don't digest it well.
Have you read all the scary anti-soy stuff that the Weston Price Foundation puts out?
(I am not a vegetarian, and am all for organic dairy and grass-fed beef, but I don't think tofu will kill me, either.)
However, avoiding soybean oil is almost as difficult as cutting high fructose corn syrup out of your diet.
I agree that finding *balance* is the key.

[2bohemians]

Do they work? I've been pondering them, but after three kids.... I don't know about that. I'll leave out the gory details about my fears....:floor:

I tried one similar to it years ago, pre-kids, and it wasn't so great. If there are moms who have used it and it's worked for them, I'd be willing to give it a try.

We will spare everyone on the board the details of everything but will be happy to share with anyone who is interested. Yes, they work and they work great -- honestly it's changed everything .... like we said, we will spare the details unless someone asks. Read some of the testimonials on their website (http://www.divacup.com/) --- they are true! It kind of makes us angry that most women out there don't even know this product is an option. We love the product and feel great about helping out the environment by cutting down on feminine products in the trash. These cups are available in Blue Mountain Beach at For The Health of It.

[organicmama]

Have you read all the scary anti-soy stuff that the Weston Price Foundation puts out?
(I am not a vegetarian, and am all for organic dairy and grass-fed beef, but I don't think tofu will kill me, either.)
However, avoiding soybean oil is almost as difficult as cutting high fructose corn syrup out of your diet.
I agree that finding *balance* is the key.

I didn't cut it out. I just cut down on it & haven't been vegetarian in 3 years, after 8 years of no meat. Actually I love soy. But if I eat too much of it, my "tummy" hurts. Mr. OM calls it "Vegetarian Chitlins.":floor:

I read stuff put out by a lefty mag over 12 years ago but not Weston Price. I try to find a middle ground on all info I read whether pro-holistic or pro-medical. Accepting the crazy lit out there (on both sides) at face value will make you paranoid.

[organicmama]

We will spare everyone on the board the details of everything but will be happy to share with anyone who is interested. Yes, they work and they work great -- honestly it's changed everything .... like we said, we will spare the details unless someone asks. Read some of the testimonials on their website (http://www.divacup.com/) --- they are true! It kind of makes us angry that most women out there don't even know this product is an option. We love the product and feel great about helping out the environment by cutting down on feminine products in the trash. These cups are available in Blue Mountain Beach at For The Health of It.

:clap:

Yep, no gory details, but glad to know it works. Times are changing and people are seeking prodicts with less impact. Periods are such a quiet subject that it'll probably be the last frontier regarding environment & wastefulness.

[organicmama]

That is incredible. In my way of thinking you can pretty much tack 7 years on to your menarche age, and as I am sure you know, a later onset menarche is beneficial in reducing your risk of breast cancer. :clap:

Yep & anything that'll keep that beast away from me rocks.... although Little Guy is cut off by the end of the year and I will be glad NOT to be a nutrient-supplier anymore.:floor: It'll be the first time since Dec 2000 that I wasn't growing or feeding someone.:clap: No more!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Beach Runner]

So, Skunky, does that mean that since my periods were about every three months due to a benign pituitary problem that I am less likely to get bc due to way low estrogen levels? That's what my doctor at Peachtree Women's Clinic in Atlanta told me.

[organicmama]

So, Skunky, does that mean that since my periods were about every three months due to a benign pituitary problem that I am less likely to get bc due to way low estrogen levels? That's what my doctor at Peachtree Women's Clinic in Atlanta told me.

My cousin has the same problem, but her period has not shown up since the birth of her 7 1/2 year old. She's tried EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN medical & holistic and nothing has helped. On our own, we kind of came to the same "unofficial" conclusion. She's super-healthy otherwise and is 40 years old. She has been told that even though there's a possibility she's ovulating monthly, she might never get her period back.

Skunky, on a pediatric take on the whole low estrogen level thing, does the fact that low estrogen levels resulting in labial adhesion possibly mean there's less of a chance of a child eventually having bc? I know there's a zillion factors that can change between now and adulthood, but it's been a thought on my mind that I've always wondered about and never asked an MD.

[30A Skunkape]

My cousin has the same problem, but her period has not shown up since the birth of her 7 1/2 year old. She's tried EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN medical & holistic and nothing has helped. On our own, we kind of came to the same "unofficial" conclusion. She's super-healthy otherwise and is 40 years old. She has been told that even though there's a possibility she's ovulating monthly, she might never get her period back.

Skunky, on a pediatric take on the whole low estrogen level thing, does the fact that low estrogen levels resulting in labial adhesion possibly mean there's less of a chance of a child eventually having bc? I know there's a zillion factors that can change between now and adulthood, but it's been a thought on my mind that I've always wondered about and never asked an MD.

I am not sure about low estrogens relationship to this condition-I thought it was more due to inflammation and not a hormonal issue as it occurs in little tots.

[organicmama]

I am not sure about low estrogens relationship to this condition-I thought it was more due to inflammation and not a hormonal issue as it occurs in little tots.

Thanks for the clarification. Total misconception because of the treatment being an estrogen cream. Next & hopefully final question about it: Could the inflammation have been caused by thrush/yeast infection?

[Lady D]

I'm so tired of the menopausal symptoms. I am on Provera for 10 days to try to straighten back out my cycles. Not to mention I am having issues with what I am afraid might be a UTI and will probably end up back in the gyn office next week or the place across the street.

I hate the burning and the stinging and pelvic pressure, the lower back and side discomfort, etc. Not to mention other discomfort also that I won't go into details over. I wish I would just stop having them, as this stuff is driving me crazy and is downright annoying and uncomfortable at times. :bang:

[Beach Runner]

Menopause. :( I'm still called Stinky. Sick of it. But I am dealing with daughter's and mother's problems that are more pressing. So I guess Stinky is my destiny until I help those who I love more than myself. There are only so many trips that one can make to Atlanta to doctor appointments for loved ones without mentally crashing due to the stress of the traffic.:(

[30A Skunkape]

Paging Dr JDarg, to the GYN suite...STAT!!!:floor:

[jdarg]

Paging Dr JDarg, to the GYN suite...STAT!!!:floor:

I'd rather French kiss a unicorn. But carry on everyone.

[Beach Runner]

I'd rather French kiss a unicorn. But carry on everyone.
LOL.

But I miss the you-know-what from Big D. :blush: Heck, I'm embarrassed to get a pedicure for fear that, well, you know.

[jdarg]

LOL.

But I miss the you-know-what from Big D. :blush: Heck, I'm embarrassed to get a pedicure for fear that, well, you know.


Oh sheet BR!!!! TMI!! You are totally going for shock factor today!:shock:

[30A Skunkape]

:wacko:

[BeachSiO2]

How I got on this thread, I will never admit. If i hurt feelings, I am sorry but there must be a haiku or few in there...

Sharing my symptoms
For all sowal peeps to see
My "privates" no more

Stinky and toe nails
Was that a Big D shout out
Shock and awe no doubt


Hot flashes a gift
My vajajay on display
Unicorn lovin'

:leaving:

[30A Skunkape]

How I got on this thread, I will never admit how. If i hurt feelings, I am sorry but there must be a haiku or few in there...

Sharing my symptoms
For all sowal peeps to see
My "privates" no more

Stinky and toe nails
Was that a Big D shout out
Shock and awe no doubt


Hot flashes a gift
My vajajay on display
Unicorn lovin'

:leaving:

HALL OF FAME!!!
:clap::clap::clap::clap::clap::clap::clap::clap::c lap::clap::clap:

[jdarg]

One thing I am learning about hormones- ya just have to keep laughing.:lol:

[DD]

LOL.

But I miss the you-know-what from Big D. :blush: Heck, I'm embarrassed to get a pedicure for fear that, well, you know.

:blink::floor:

[Miss Kitty]

How I got on this thread, I will never admit how. If i hurt feelings, I am sorry but there must be a haiku or few in there...

Sharing my symptoms
For all sowal peeps to see
My "privates" no more

Stinky and toe nails
Was that a Big D shout out
Shock and awe no doubt


Hot flashes a gift
My vajajay on display
Unicorn lovin'

:leaving:


I. Think. I. Am. Going. To. Die. Laughing. :floor::rolling::rofl::funn::lol:

BeachS...these will have their own chapter in the Book! Thanks for visiting the TMI thread of all time! :clap:

[cp]

[quote=BeachSiO2;435038]How I got on this thread, I will never admit how. If i hurt feelings, I am sorry but there must be a haiku or few in there...

Sharing my symptoms
For all sowal peeps to see
My "privates" no more

Stinky and toe nails
Was that a Big D shout out
Shock and awe no doubt


Hot flashes a gift
My vajajay on display
Unicorn lovin'

think this will fit in the new sowal cookbook????

[Beach Runner]

Oh sheet BR!!!! TMI!! You are totally going for shock factor today!:shock:
You got dat right!

:wacko:
You feel my pain. Thanks.

How I got on this thread, I will never admit how. If i hurt feelings, I am sorry but there must be a haiku or few in there...

Sharing my symptoms
For all sowal peeps to see
My "privates" no more

Stinky and toe nails
Was that a Big D shout out
Shock and awe no doubt


Hot flashes a gift
My vajajay on display
Unicorn lovin'

:leaving:
You get me! :wub:

HALL OF FAME!!!
:clap:
Fer sure!:clap:

One thing I am learning about hormones- ya just have to keep laughing.:lol:
You got dat right as well.:biggrin:

I. Think. I. Am. Going. To. Die. Laughing. :floor:

BeachS...these will have their own chapter in the Book! Thanks for visiting the TMI thread of all time! :clap:
That would be how one would characterize moi. Merci beaucoup.:lol:

[quote=BeachSiO2;435038]How I got on this thread, I will never admit how. If i hurt feelings, I am sorry but there must be a haiku or few in there...

Sharing my symptoms
For all sowal peeps to see
My "privates" no more

Stinky and toe nails
Was that a Big D shout out
Shock and awe no doubt


Hot flashes a gift
My vajajay on display
Unicorn lovin'

think this will fit in the new sowal cookbook????
In the fish recipes section? :biggrin::lol::floor::funn::rolling:

[BeachSiO2]

I. Think. I. Am. Going. To. Die. Laughing. :floor::rolling::rofl::funn::lol:

BeachS...these will have their own chapter in the Book! Thanks for visiting the TMI thread of all time! :clap:

:biggrin: For you and "others", anything!

[quote=BeachSiO2;435038]
think this will fit in the new sowal cookbook????

:biggrin::biggrin: No, i need my own book..
You get me! :wub:


:biggrin::biggrin::biggrin: Luckily not, but I feel we all need a little levity.

[BeachSiO2]

HALL OF FAME!!!
:clap::clap::clap::clap::clap::clap::clap::clap::c lap::clap::clap:

Thanks [insert "take a bow smiley"]. I truly appreciate it. On another note, I am glad you're the doc, and not me ;-)

[jdarg]

BeachSiO2 will now know all there is to know about menopause, among other female complaints.

Your wife is going to think you are sooo sensitive and caring for taking the time to learn about women's "stuff".:lol:

[BeachSiO2]

BeachSiO2 will now know all there is to know about menopause, among other female complaints.

Your wife is going to think you are sooo sensitive and caring for taking the time to learn about women's "stuff".:lol:

I shared all this stuff with her before we left for dinner and in reference to the haikus she said, "you kill me." That's a lottery winning ticket folks!

On the other hand, when things really suck for her (us), I will just write more haikus :biggrin:

[peapod1980]

Paging Dr JDarg, to the GYN suite...STAT!!!:floor:

But I miss the you-know-what from Big D. :blush: Heck, I'm embarrassed to get a pedicure for fear that, well, you know.
I think maybe it'd be better to deploy Colonel Angus.

[Beach Runner]

I think maybe it'd be better to deploy Colonel Angus.
That's one of the funniest SNL skits ever. :floor:

[Lady D]

I don't think I need to be posting anymore on this thread. I guess I thought with this being a health and wellness part of the forum anyone could post what they wanted on here relating to health and wellness issues. I guess not.

Anyway, I have read way worse things on this entire forum than talking about certain health issues, whether female or male. I would not think anything of anyone else on here talking about certain health issues they have whether personal or not.

It is something we all have to deal with and men I am sure know about women's health issues, husbands for sure. I am signing off of this thread. Too much joking going on.

[elgordoboy]

How I got on this thread, I will never admit. If i hurt feelings, I am sorry but there must be a haiku or few in there...

Sharing my symptoms
For all sowal peeps to see
My "privates" no more

Stinky and toe nails
Was that a Big D shout out
Shock and awe no doubt


Hot flashes a gift
My vajajay on display
Unicorn lovin'

:leaving:
Hilarious! Someone recommended I come find this and have a great laugh. After reading the thread looking for the haiku I must say....my eyes are bleeding.
But you ladies do have my sympathy. In the very rare times I am in a relationship I am very aware of how hard it would be for me to be a woman. I don't like having to comb my hair regularly and I am sometimes too lazy to go pee, I can't imagine having to keep up with what you all do. You guys are tough :clap:

[Beach Runner]

Sorry for my part in offending you or anyone else, Lady D. :blush:

Menopausal symtoms can be quite a nuisance. Sometimes I have to laugh about it to keep from getting too depressed.

[Lady D]

Sorry for my part in offending you or anyone else, Lady D. :blush:

Menopausal symtoms can be quite a nuisance. Sometimes I have to laugh about it to keep from getting too depressed.

Hey Beach Runner , :wave: I just don't want to go to go into too many details as there are certain people on here that won't think anything about hammering you about something they feel is too personal that they feel shouldn't be discussed. So I try to watch what I say.

[30A Skunkape]

LadyD, some people just don't want to hear about this stuff. At the same time, I think it is healthy for you to discuss these topics in a non-intimidating environment. I think it would be great if you spearheaded a women's health group. Might I suggest you form a private group and anyone who requests the password knows they have a place to frankly discuss health topics? Just a thought:wave:

[Lady D]

LadyD, some people just don't want to hear about this stuff. At the same time, I think it is healthy for you to discuss these topics in a non-intimidating environment. I think it would be great if you spearheaded a women's health group. Might I suggest you form a private group and anyone who requests the password knows they have a place to frankly discuss health topics? Just a thought:wave:

Well I suggested a women's only section on this forum for that purpose and even mentioned it to DD and maybe Kurt through a private message. People look at this stuff like it is taboo or something I guess. I know it is a thought of yours and thanks but I might as well just forget about that.

[elgordoboy]

Well I suggested a women's only section on this forum for that purpose and even mentioned it to DD and maybe Kurt through a private message. People look at this stuff like it is taboo or something I guess. I know it is a thought of yours and thanks but I might as well just forget about that.
The subject matter isn't taboo, is having fun discussing it to be taboo? Skunky's idea seems to fit the bill, make a group and invite only ones who promise to be serious all the time. Once again I am truly sorry for those with the ill zingers and who suffer from other symptoms of menopause. I was living with my mom when she went through it all and I suffered as well.

[Beach Runner]

I'm pretty much "tell it like I see it." That's the way I roll. Some people admire me for it, and others are shocked by it.

I don't understand why people are reluctant to discuss matters that are just part of being a human being. I don't like keeping up a facade that nothing embarrassing exists as we dress in our pretty church clothes with smiles on our faces pretending that our worlds are perfect and that we have no problems.

[organicmama]

I'm so tired of the menopausal symptoms. I am on Provera for 10 days to try to straighten back out my cycles. Not to mention I am having issues with what I am afraid might be a UTI and will probably end up back in the gyn office next week or the place across the street.

I hate the burning and the stinging and pelvic pressure, the lower back and side discomfort, etc. Not to mention other discomfort also that I won't go into details over. I wish I would just stop having them, as this stuff is driving me crazy and is downright annoying and uncomfortable at times. :bang:

UTIs.... avoid sodas and any other carbonated drinks. When you are having one, avoid caffeine. Go straight to your local health food store and get cranberry juice concentrate and mix into water WITHOUT sweetener. Drink the heck outta it. The active consituents in the cranberries don't allow the nasty stuff to stick to your urethra.

Don't take any supplement with cornsilk in it with the cranberry juice. Both work, but the cranberry juice does better than even prescriptions or over the counter things like AZO.

This is coming from someone who had 2 cases of kidney stones and zillions of UTIs before I was 21. I've been pretty free of them ALL for the past 14 years by avoiding the heck outta sodas. If I drink one, I feel it in my left kidney. No kidding. I learned to LOVE cranberry juice.

[organicmama]

I'm pretty much "tell it like I see it." That's the way I roll. Some people admire me for it, and others are shocked by it.

I don't understand why people are reluctant to discuss matters that are just part of being a human being. I don't like keeping up a facade that nothing embarrassing exists as we dress in our pretty church clothes with smiles on our faces pretending that our worlds are perfect and that we have no problems.

I'm the same way. :biggrin: I grew up the middle child between two nasty brothers. Nothing was sacred. Also, my mama didn't tell me shee-it about what to expect from periods to puberty to.... anything. And her experiences with her two pregnancies (I'm not biological) are TOTALLY different from mine. I had to find my own way.

My girls know pretty much everything they can about their bodies, what to expect, etc. right now. The only thing I haven't explained is the mechanics of the sperm getting from the man to the woman. :shock: I'm not ready for that one, although precocious little Zoe is already asking "How?" (Skunky, I know you're laughing at the fact that it's her.) They know correct terms for both male and female anatomy.

Being able to talk sensitively and even joke about women's health issues with a great group is very important to me. Maybe at the top of a touchy subject, the orginal posters can put a note that it's sensitive and for people not to head to the gutter with it.

Elgordoboy, all this info will just help you one day. Mr. OM is very good at dealing with feminine issues and that's what makes him a great hubby!

[organicmama]

On a serious note, Dr. Soto is working wonders on Mr. OM. He's getting better for the first time in years and it all has to do with his endocrine system (certain glands in particular) and his digestive system. So, for those with hormone problems in the area, he's wonderful.

Heather at Professional Compounding Services says he's 1 of her 2 favourite doctors in the area and had nothing but wonderful things to say about his expertise.

Tootsie, it's even better than what I told you on the phone a few weeks ago!

[Lady D]

UTIs.... avoid sodas and any other carbonated drinks. When you are having one, avoid caffeine. Go straight to your local health food store and get cranberry juice concentrate and mix into water WITHOUT sweetener. Drink the heck outta it. The active consituents in the cranberries don't allow the nasty stuff to stick to your urethra.

Don't take any supplement with cornsilk in it with the cranberry juice. Both work, but the cranberry juice does better than even prescriptions or over the counter things like AZO.

This is coming from someone who had 2 cases of kidney stones and zillions of UTIs before I was 21. I've been pretty free of them ALL for the past 14 years by avoiding the heck outta sodas. If I drink one, I feel it in my left kidney. No kidding. I learned to LOVE cranberry juice.

Thanks Beach Runner for your thoughts and organicmama, thanks for your comments also. Well, I bought bottles of already mixed up cranberry juice and have been drinking a good deal of it along with water. Nothing else. No caffeine. No sodas. I didn't think about the health food store here. The bottles I have do have too much sugar but I would not have thought about any at that place. I have cranberry softgels also, would they work???

[jdarg]

SoWal.com has the private group option. Get as down and graphic as you want, by invitation only.:wave:

[organicmama]

SoWal.com has the private group option. Get as down and graphic as you want, by invitation only.:wave:

It's still semi-public, though. If that was an option and truly private, it would be cool.

[organicmama]

Thanks Beach Runner for your thoughts and organicmama, thanks for your comments also. Well, I bought bottles of already mixed up cranberry juice and have been drinking a good deal of it along with water. Nothing else. No caffeine. No sodas. I didn't think about the health food store here. The bottles I have do have too much sugar but I would not have thought about any at that place. I have cranberry softgels also, would they work???

Cranberry juice concentrate is about as thick as blood.:eek: It's TART but works wonders. My thoughts on the softgels... you can do them also, but it takes more to digest them. The juice really goes right through you (literally), no digestion needed, so it works faster. It was always my recommendation to customers when working in the nutrition dept of various health food stores.

I also recommend mixing it with higher concentration of cranberry juice than the directions call for. Whatever you can stomach taste-wise. I've been known to tilt the little bottle up and drink it sans H20 when I was really in pain.

[elgordoboy]

It's still semi-public, though. If that was an option and truly private, it would be cool.
I thought I saw password protected somewhere, that would be about as private as it can get netwise it seems. Or are the posts viewable and the pw needed just for posting? I'll start making a list of who we won't invite!

[organicmama]

I thought I saw password protected somewhere, that would be about as private as it can get netwise it seems. Or are the posts viewable and the pw needed just for posting? I'll start making a list of who we won't invite!

I don't know if they can be password protected or not. You can go onto the groups and see posts. You just can't post if you're not a member.

You're silly.:floor:Do you have your little notebook handy keeping up with all the little details of womanhood?

I was about to start a thread asking if that was you shooting off fireworks down the road on this non-holiday evening.:biggrin:

[elgordoboy]

I don't know if they can be password protected or not. You can go onto the groups and see posts. You just can't post if you're not a member.

You're silly.:floor:Do you have your little notebook handy keeping up with all the little details of womanhood?

I was about to start a thread asking if that was you shooting off fireworks down the road on this non-holiday evening.:biggrin:
I thought the fireworks were thunder at first and was going to climb under my bed again (how about that lightning and thunder earlier right over us?..I havne't been viscerally scared like that in a while).

[jdarg]

It's still semi-public, though. If that was an option and truly private, it would be cool.

As I said, invitation only. Only those allowed to join can participate. How much more private does it get- y'all choose the members! Really, let's push this option. Because then the general public won't bump into these too personal topics unless they are really looking for them.

Let's think about this for a moment. You are standing in line at Seagrove Market, waiting for your grouper sammy, and you strike up a conversation with the person behind you. You both discover that you both are SoWallers. "So, what is your screen name?" Then you reply "_______". Then the other SoWaller recoils in fear---- "Um, have to be going, and sorry about that personal issue that you have going on..."

I had SoWal.com friends for dinner tonight. We looked at this thread. General consensus? TMI!!!

[Beachmom]

Ditto!:eek:

[Mango]

Here are instructions for starting a group. Anyone can start one and you can set it to invitation only. The person who starts the group should be sure they can receive pm's, so if someone wishes to join, they can send a pm to the group starter to ask to be on the group list.

How to Start a Social Group
Go to User CP
Under Networking click on Social Groups

You will then see all the Groups that have been started.
Pan down to the bottom of the page and click in the blue area -Start Social Group
Then follow instructions from there.

[Johnrudy]

I'm confused. Why would anybody care to take the time to read a thread that is appropriately titled Menopausal Symptoms if they are not already interested or curious? Wouldn't the title be an obvious giveaway that there might be some uncomfortable material or TMI? I think if a person is forewarned then they need to be prepared of what's ahead.

What might be a turn off for one could be helpful to another.

If people are uncomfortable, don't return to the thread in the health & Wellness forum.

:idontno:

[30A Skunkape]

I'm confused. Why would anybody care to take the time to read a thread that is appropriately titled Menopausal Symptoms if they are not already interested or curious? Wouldn't the title be an obvious giveaway that there might be some uncomfortable material or TMI? I think if a person is forewarned then they need to be prepared of what's ahead.

What might be a turn off for one could be helpful to another.

If people are uncomfortable, don't return to the thread in the health & Wellness forum.

:idontno:

I think the thread is useful. However, the utility is diminished when the discussion gets too graphic.

[jdarg]

I think the thread is useful. However, the utility is diminished when the discussion gets too graphic.

I agree, Skunky.

I guess I will never understand why the sharing of such extremely personal health info is so necessary to gain general info about a health topic. If I really need to know something, I ask my doctors, read a medical book, or go to appropriate medical websites (and not their message boards) to find info. But I have to remember, that's just me. Carry on y'all!

[Johnrudy]

I think the thread is useful. However, the utility is diminished when the discussion gets too graphic.

I agree, Skunky.

I guess I will never understand why the sharing of such extremely personal health info is so necessary to gain general info about a health topic. If I really need to know something, I ask my doctors, read a medical book, or go to appropriate medical websites (and not their message boards) to find info. But I have to remember, that's just me. Carry on y'all!

Yes, I agree. It was too graphic.

[Beach Runner]

This is a thread on menopausal syptoms. I am having a menopausal symptom that (a) I never knew existed until January, and (b) has been going on since then. I have been to two doctors, have taken many medications, and have done much research on the Internet. I have tried what has been suggested in this thread and in pm's. I am not embarrassed by talking about this in this thread any more than I would be embarrassed by talking about another illness on a thread related to it. I am just tired of having my quality of life affected by it, and I am tired of feeling self conscious when I get too close to people.

If any of you know of any remedies, please pm me. And again I am sorry for being too frank and offending any of you.:(

[aleonard]

Last year I had to deal with a slight issue that caused me to temporarily have menopausal symptoms. All I can say is, if you have a hot flash, there ain't nothing private about it:shock:

[Lady D]

Yes, I agree. It was too graphic.

What was considered too graphic? :idontno: I haven't read anything that seemed to graphic in my thread and nothing I posted was what I considered too graphic and going into detail. I would shock some people if I really went into detail which I don't. And if it has to do with a bladder infection and the symptoms, every woman knows what those symptoms are and men also. I will start a social group for those that want to participate.

[aleonard]

Private...graphic....secret club.......I want in:blink:

[John R]

this is a public forum, so anything within reason is fair game, unless smited by the supreme admin. i have learned quite a bit on this thread. so, if i see some of you out and about, don't be too upset if i stand a couple of feet away, until i think it's safe to enter the impact zone...

i feel comfortable enough to share this with you.


http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e53/rosenrosen15/pink.jpg

[organicmama]

Next time I see you, if I whack you on your head for being a temporarily unenlightened male, is that okay also?:biggrin:

this is a public forum, so anything within reason is fair game, unless smited by the supreme admin. i have learned quite a bit on this thread. so, if i see some of you out and about, don't be too upset if i stand a couple of feet away, until i think it's safe to enter the impact zone...

i feel comfortable enough to share this with you.


http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e53/rosenrosen15/pink.jpg

[John R]

Next time I see you, if I whack you on your head for being a temporarily unenlightened male, is that okay also?:biggrin:

pink not my color??

[organicmama]

It's been solved. Lady D created a private group and so it can be discussed within a more comfortable setting.

I see all points on this. Part of it is that we have become a very close knit group and when women need support for issues, where do they go first? Their girlfriends. We have a WIDE range of people here with a lot of different kinds of knowledge. What better place to ask for opinions/direction to research? It was labeled correctly and if anyone didn't want to get involved they didn't have to. And yes, it's a public forum, so anyone could get involved, even those that it doesn't affect. That's all that happened.

Nothing got to graphic except for people taking it further in their minds, but because of the general sensitivity, the topics at hand can be still discussed between those who seek the support on the private group.

[organicmama]

pink not my color??

Had nada to do with the picture. That was funny as hail. It was the standing a couple of feet away comment.:floor: And I am LMAO at you.

[Johnrudy]

It's been solved. Lady D created a private group and so it can be discussed within a more comfortable setting.

I see all points on this. Part of it is that we have become a very close knit group and when women need support for issues, where do they go first? Their girlfriends. We have a WIDE range of people here with a lot of different kinds of knowledge. What better place to ask for opinions/direction to research? It was labeled correctly and if anyone didn't want to get involved they didn't have to. And yes, it's a public forum, so anyone could get involved, even those that it doesn't affect. That's all that happened.

Nothing got to graphic except for people taking it further in their minds, but because of the general sensitivity, the topics at hand can be still discussed between those who seek the support on the private group.

Kudos to LadyD for spearheading this dilemma and creating the best solution for all. :clap: