I understand why women feel so invisible in the health care system
Women are ignored and dismissed in the medical system with our vague symptoms of feeling off, brain fog, anxiousness, depression and a listlessness that can't be explained. These are all tell tale signs of peri-menopause and menopause. A doctor is more likely to prescribe anti-depressants than hormone therapy or discuss natural methods. It's also why the highest rate of suicidal ideation for women is between 45-55. We are led to believe it is all in our heads, when it's our biochemistry going haywire.
In my case, my family doctor retired during covid and was replaced with a new doctor who didn't know me, nor took the time to review my files. Things were being missed, dismissed or referred to every specialist but an OB. So I turned to a naturopath in town, Dr Carly Wedler, to help understand what is wrong.
At the time, I couldn't stop fidgeting, scratching at my skin or keep eye contact. In an hour long appointment you can actually root out issues. At first, neither Dr Carly or I though this could be perimenopause. I am was and am young. At the time I was 46, fit, high level of exercise, excellent diet and my blood work indicated all my hormone levels were normal except my thyroid. I've had hashimoto's for 20 years and my medication never varied but suddenly I was hyperthyroid not hypo.
It turns out a shift to hyper and a need to reduce your medication can be an early sign of menopause. My meds have reduced 5 times in 2 years. Hyperthyroid causes agitation, scratching and a rapid heart beat. Not all of this resolved by changing my medication. Dr Carly suggested doing a DUTCH test. In a 6 month window all my hormones turned off. At 46 I had no measurable estrogen or progesterone but thanks to my heavy strength training regime I still had adequate testosterone.
Under Dr. Carly's supervision we tried a natural approach to offset my symptoms but after 3 months she suggested I needed HRT or hormone therapy to combat my symptoms.
If it wasn't for Dr. Carly I would be lost in the medical system. She saw a connection between what seemed as unconnected issues and gave me the tools to seek the care I need.
Depending on the level of care you need, a naturopath is a great option to combat menopause. Not everyone needs or can take HRT. Through a naturopath you can mitigate many of the symptoms.
