What Changed?
In my previous post, I shared how speaking with a menopause specialist helped me make sense of what I was experiencing.
It has been six weeks since that consultation session. I realise I have been feeling better: my sleep has improved, my mind feels clearer, and most noticeably, the "brain in the longkang" feeling that I experienced before is no longer so obvious.
It came from a few things working together (as prescribed by my menopause specialist doctor).
1) Supporting hormonal balance (Oestrogel* gel in the morning daily)
2) Improving sleep quality (200 mg magnesium glycinate every night)
3) Correcting underlying deficiencies (25,000 IU vitamin D3 once a week)
*Note: I already have a Mirena IUD (which provides a progesterone-like hormone (levonorgestrel)) to protect my uterine lining, so additional oral progesterone is not required.
Why Sleep Made Such a Big Difference
When my doctor said that my improvement was likely due to better sleep, it made sense. When sleep improves, other areas tend to improve as well. My thinking becomes clearer, my mood becomes more stable, my energy levels improve, and my cravings for sweet things reduce.
Sleep allows the body to recover and function more efficiently.
A More Stable Version of Me
What I am experiencing now does not feel like a temporary boost. It feels like a return to a more stable state. I feel less foggy, less reactive, and more consistent throughout the day.
What I'm Focusing on Next
Following my recent consultation at the 6th-week mark, I now have a clearer idea of what else to work on next on top of the treatment modalities mentioned above.
These are not drastic changes, but practical adjustments that I can build into my daily routine over time.
First, I'm working on adjusting my sleep schedule. The goal is to be asleep before 11:30 pm so that I can wake up around 8:00 am more consistently. Since better sleep has already made a noticeable difference, maintaining a regular sleep rhythm is a priority.
Second, I'm starting to build a morning exercise habit. The focus is not intensity, but consistency. Even a short session in the morning is enough to begin with. The aim is to make movement a regular part of my routine before work.
Third, I'll be scheduling a blood test (at the 16th week) to review my vitamin D3 levels (last I checked, I was in the deficiency band) and check my thyroid function. This is to ensure that there are no other underlying factors affecting my energy, mood, or overall well-being.
These steps feel manageable and realistic. More importantly, they feel aligned with where I am right now.
A Work in Progress
I may not have everything figured out. However, I am learning that this stage of life is not about doing more or pushing harder. It is about understanding my body better and responding in a more intentional way.
I will see how these changes work over the next few weeks and share an update.
My #PerimenopauseAndMenopause Series
If you're new to this series, here's what you can find out more:
Part 1: I Haven't Quite Felt Like Myself
Part 2: Breaking Down or Waking Up
Part 3: When Burnout Isn't Burnout
Part 4: A Visit That Made Me Feel Seen and Understood
