Today I’m talking about one of my very favorite topics, perimenopause.

I’ve just gone through perimenopause myself, and now I’m officially in menopause – woohoo!

I know firsthand how tricky this transition time can be. A few years ago, I went to a detox center in New York at the recommendation of one of my doctors. I usually don’t like these sort of drastic cleanses, but I was feeling good and thought I’d give it a try.

It didn’t go so well. In one week I lost 10 pounds, and I was already underweight. I became dehydrated, and my brain was so foggy that at one point when I looked at a clock, I didn’t know how to tell the time!

On my trip home, I began to struggle with my emotions. I experienced anxiety for the first time in my life, and almost had a panic attack on the plane.

At home, the anxiety continued, and I also began to feel claustrophobic. My poor husband! I went away a perfectly normal human and came home a total mess. I couldn’t get into an elevator or drive into an underground parking garage.

I’m happy to say that I no longer have any of these symptoms.

Now I understand that the harsh detox, which was supposed to support me, ended up stressing my system so much that it propelled me into perimenopausal syndrome.

My journey to re-balance my system took me deep into the world of perimenopause. I learned things I was never taught in school, things that many practitioners don’t even understand.

Be sure to watch this video for the full story, I have so much to share with you! I also talk about signs that you’re in perimenopause, some of which might surprise you:

In case you don’t have time to watch, here are some signs you might be in perimenopause:

• You’re experiencing strange new symptoms in your 40s
• Unexplained weight gain, especially around the belly
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• You feel angry and frustrated often
• You’re struggling with your partner and/or your children
• You’re having trouble sleeping
• Your cycles are varying and different than they used to be (irregular periods are sometimes the last symptom you’ll experience!)

If you’re feeling crazy, please know you’re not alone. There are things you can do to alleviate your suffering.

It’s really important to work with someone who knows how to protect your hormones during this phase.

In my practice, I see many women going through perimenopause, and I’d love to support you on your journey. I offer in-person sessions as well as virtual ones. You can call or text my office at (310) 319-1122 to get more information.

Stay tuned for my next video, where I talk about what’s happening hormonally during perimenopause, and specific things you can do to support yourself.

I really hope this helps!