Copyright mamamia
In 2023, the mood fluctuations — absent for so long — started again. This time, however, the zeitgeist was different, and after seeing Mia Freedman's posts about perimenopause, I began to log every mood shift and strange symptom against my cycle. My GP referred me to a female doctor at the same practice, who sent me straight to a gynaecologist at the forefront of women's health research. After listening to my story and looking over my mood logs she diagnosed me with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and attributed the return of symptoms to perimenopausal havoc. I started a treatment to stop ovulation, combined with HRT to provide a hormonal steady state. The treatment is not without lamentable side effects, but I am mentally well. I even have a new and supportive psychiatrist. It feels like a miracle, admittedly one that I could have done with a little earlier. Thankfully, I've had my children and the removal of my ovaries is a reliable, permanent solution. I'm also grateful that I don't have daughters who might have inherited these faulty genes. My biggest regret is not thinking to see a gynaecologist back in 2016. Sometimes I still feel that it was all my fault. However, the shift in attitude towards women's health seems positive. A time might come when women with similar experiences to mine won't be treated as strange or baffling. For too long we have paid the price for narrow-minded medical misogyny: dismissed, locked away, or over medicated. I can only hope that the sharing of experiences like mine will help turn the tide.If you or anyone you know needs to speak with an expert, please contact your GP or in Australia, contact Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636), all of which provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7.Feature Image: Supplied. Calling all women aged 30+! We want to hear how you take care of yourself! Complete our 3 minute survey for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! TAKE SURVEY ➤
