--- title: Coping with Perimenopause date: 2022-08-02T21:59:39-04:00 author: OBOS Admin canonical_url: "https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-coping-with-perimenopause" section: "Stories & Conversations" --- [Donate](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/donate) [Stories & Conversations](/stories-conversations)# Coping with Perimenopause JF discusses her perimenopause symptoms. She explains her diffculty with the healthcare system as it relates to perimenopause and how her self-advocacy resulted in her seeing a perimenopause specialist. ## Transcript **OBOS Today:** Could you tell me why you wanted to start—why you wanted to talk about this today? **JF:** Yeah, I want to talk about perimenopause, which is a thing I am currently experiencing. **OBOS Today:** What have you been experiencing? Can you tell me about that? **JF:** Oh. Um. Yeah! I’m experiencing so many things! \[*laughing*\] Um, I started perimenopause a couple of years ago. I like skipped a whole cycle and after that happened— which was really unpleasant because I got, like, PMSed and then just stayed PMSed for a month. Um, and I’ve just had a bunch of symptoms since then. I’ve had IBS that I never had before; I had a migraine for the first time in 30 years; but primarily for the last couple of years, I’ve been getting my period, like, more frequently and for longer? Like, a sped-up cycle where my bleeding periods are longer, and then also they come more frequently—But in the last—like, since the new year, I’ve shifted into like perimenopause high gear. Um, I’m on, like, Day— I don’t even know, like fifty-some-odd of my cycle right now. Um. \[*laughs*\] And—yeah, and I’m having mood swings, I’m having fatigue, I’m having like this brain fog where I can’t make my thoughts work, I’m having acid reflux, like, whoa? It’s like—it’s a lot! And I find myself feeling really angry, because like this is something that slightly more than half the population goes through, and it is so hard to get a straight answer about what might help with any of it. Um. I had to go—I had to, like, really do a lot of intense, like, self-advocacy to get in to see a perimenopause specialist, who I have an appointment with for next week, ‘cause, like, the automatic thing would be to just send you to some random gynecologist—which, like, perimenopause is like a whole systems thing, and a gynecologist mostly doesn’t—like, I’m sure they’re lovely people, but like—anyway, it’s been a lot! It’s been a lot, and nobody talks about it. ![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)Topics - [ menopause & perimenopause](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/subject-area/menopause-perimenopause) - [perimenopause](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/perimenopause) ![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)### *Why You Can* **Trust Us** - We rigorously evaluate all content - We embrace a reproductive justice framework - We don’t accept ads or sell products - We reject funding from the pharmaceutical industry - We counter misinformation and disinformation - We address the social, political, and economic factors that affect health and sexuality [read more](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/why-you-can-trust-us) Share [](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();) ##### More to Explore [ResourcesRead ## What Fresh Hell Is This? Perimenopause, Menopause, Other Indignities, and You Tips for taking care of yourself and getting through perimenopause and menopause. ![The book cover to What Fresh Hell Is This: red, white, and orange flames are in the background with the title in black bold letters on the left.](data:image/png;base64,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) Tips for taking care of yourself and getting through perimenopause and menopause.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/what-fresh-hell-is-this-perimenopause-menopause-other-indignities-and-you) [Stories & ConversationsRead ## Sharing What I Learned about Perimenopause Nina shares how her experience with perimenopause led her to co-found Women Living Better, a resource that demystifies the menopause transition. ![Nina_Coslov](data:image/png;base64,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) Nina shares how her experience with perimenopause led her to co-found Women Living Better, a resource that demystifies the menopause transition.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-the-very-early-perimenopause) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Finding a Perimenopause Specialist JF recalls the research she did to find a perimenopause specialist in her area who would accept her insurance. ![My Story- Finding a Perimenopause Specialist](data:image/png;base64,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) JF recalls the research she did to find a perimenopause specialist in her area who would accept her insurance.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-finding-a-perimenopause-specialist) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Recognizing My Symptoms of Perimenopause on My Own JF shares the difficulties of living with perimenopause, a condition for which there is little research and no consensus on symptoms. ![My Story- Recognizing My Symptoms of Perimenopause on My Own](data:image/png;base64,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) JF shares the difficulties of living with perimenopause, a condition for which there is little research and no consensus on symptoms.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-recognizing-my-symptoms-of-perimenopause-on-my-own) [ResourcesRead ## CeMCOR: The Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research A broad collection of information about menstrual health. Topic areas include fertility, heavy flow, hot flashes, cramps and painful periods, contraception, and more. ![CeMCOR-The Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research](data:image/png;base64,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) A broad collection of information about menstrual health. Topic areas include fertility, heavy flow, hot flashes, cramps and painful periods, contraception, and more.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/cemcor-the-centre-for-menstrual-cycle-and-ovulation-research) [ResourcesRead ## Common Signs and Symptoms of Perimenopause This evidence-based, feminist resource aims to demystify perimenopause and normalize the symptoms that often start before periods become irregular. ![An image of an older white woman in a blue shirt lying on a bed with her hands on her head. On her night stand is a white fan facing her.](data:image/png;base64,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) This evidence-based, feminist resource aims to demystify perimenopause and normalize the symptoms that often start before periods become irregular.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/common-perimenopause-symptoms) [ResourcesWatch ## Conversation with Dr. Jen Gunter: The Menopause Manifesto An interview with Dr. Jen Gunter on rethinking menopause and her book, The Menopause Manifesto: Own Your Health with Facts and Feminism. ![Jen Gunter](data:image/png;base64,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) An interview with Dr. Jen Gunter on rethinking menopause and her book, The Menopause Manifesto: Own Your Health with Facts and Feminism.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/conversation-with-dr-jen-gunter-the-menopause-manifesto) [Stories & ConversationsRead ## Perimenopause: The Ugly, The Bad, and The Good! Our Bodies Ourselves content expert Ann Marie Meyer offers encouragement in facing the many sides of perimenopause and its symptoms. ![Headshot of Ann Marie Meyer](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAgCAIAAAD8GO2jAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAEqUlEQVRIiWVWwa4jNw6sKrLtyQuyCQIkpz3sh+3X72mxyGWAJDNv3KzKQWqPZyPIhqxuschikTL//S+S4AHdq+6/6P5D3d94fGDfU4dZZ/QIP5/59Jg/3ufjp8dvvz/+8/Ed//0MfAY+AX8Cf77h/CfwM/qHn25v/7jfPxy3W1WpAYBfJwmAJEHwWhEQIZKkyBZRhAivYwLUoJatbWLb1Yvpa4gkJakksYoldalLt9b9qLebfr0XfiyggQYO4P4Bt8IhNbsoPV3rF/dJiSVJVWIJJakEIYRg2uDpnO6fx/DxPw8+3gB/j7xBB1zfU0exRAkSxIYAgQJLLEqqVnWpi9VQm1KoAmSQAQAwafiN/nQLfs+Hd7xJt+/cb6ib1FKJIqUNgAKX511V1V3VzS5UhyqoDJXXMZEiWrkX3o/4O9QD9+he00fqRh1iSfUCcEWw3e/uPkpHszosgxN2ux6LNUpo4SZ8qcwNeKCtG86jXI1qqkmJwksEJZWqqo/qo46j6zi0WeKEPamaqh19C0flS+U8kAc07OjgtKKCilx+XPxg89PVXcfRx9F9tPpgVSCD56S6qk7VUgNaeVfOynR4UmFHJRcjLSmhUd9E8A3GraubalBLPzWukkQRxRRdzEOZSk5woLCxAKIt05ccVKlKvQHq6K6jVU2WgTZqXNI6KYSwkKJP2gomMoQRLIaEgN7WhVVZVVtFC6O71U0q4AQ1lkhupQImLMwDM3TO0GFQoRAxxCq0jaELY/FU3XWsglABnEDyMp84qaTjgYeZEw6dMQ0FggkSaV4RUKJUuoiq6lJ3VRVVWFEs60jStj3jqbjgYsqpwGDoEItD9OoYmyItlBUJS1WlXrKnlBDL/bhmWjPlKU+lC9ZYjgARYbIa0AWwm53Wp8SNwY0HkmEQJ1WsUktdOpc0pEiRKGb1tYjx/wFIu5NuKK1iFLduggosFlULlqw1RYsSLTH7ZZLIE2A38ss8LlRQ1/Pl2PN9PZ14+rQIxBIZmYDQy02jS3/rsnmOEOE319LXucbV76/rZn+DQIur1JogcrXjBAGyF8lKLdZEsH8/rQe89tfODiToy5fe4AFyDSeJHdGIAsSOY+9HcfBcvzi0PFoutnIBhGvreTi2bdEGQTuw155tZ9Z6vbmR4I1BZ7HdBBQwjRDeRMTJ2I7HQwtcR8aescczHttjj217YhtObCywrF6S3rqNNol+WrdnrCImQrgAMuecM3N6zpmFNPbsgFYocHhR1gIYMoVwWfdk+z6mDBgBQAenc54zp9f3mj53KJnEwYQvYmgGyo0RlqlF/XjGGpOTkEpeAM7HzDnnOec5c84rBsZwkJVPBGniII7VXLMommxyzxkqIHwBTM7Zpp/WF1c+7dNwaPMSE5FmDqYZPRNgOyuTMuhkQASYvwGcDz8xLveXTsyrjppp7AQQRoyldI8tg7Pq2qCdmcwG8Jyele2n+xN610J20ab338zXIrgqwDbswOC6TTKTZXGeSV7WJ5nAhjf7QFbPWfVFgOsewbMOHC9JXADjjLPlvysuax3bDlcFLNNXH+vdo77ubIjngK+aeQF+zmtzXUPXi1hHwuAvm4RP5EVdomAAAAAASUVORK5CYII=) Our Bodies Ourselves content expert Ann Marie Meyer offers encouragement in facing the many sides of perimenopause and its symptoms.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-perimenopause-the-ugly-the-bad-and-the-good)