Perimenopause: where your body starts doing weird things and then gaslights you about it.

In this episode of OvaryActive, Dr. Amy Voedisch and Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su dive into the "wait…what?" symptoms. Those random, head-scratching changes that pop up during the menopause transition. Think asthma out of nowhere, itchy ears that won't quit, or sudden dizziness that makes you question your balance and your sanity. Is it hormones? Is it aging? Is it both? Welcome to the gray area.

They are sharing what little research exists, where estrogen might be playing a role, and why so many of these symptoms live in the frustrating "we're not totally sure" category.

They also talk about whether menopausal hormone therapy helps, hurts, or lands squarely in the "we'll have to try and see" bucket.

Most importantly, this episode reinforces a core truth: you're not making this up. You're definitely not alone. And you're NOT crazy. This is really happening.

NOTE: Hey, we misspoke: BPPV is from the semicircular canals, not the ossicles. Thanks to listener Amy Patrick for spotting the error!

What you'll hear in this episode:

[0:29] We're talking WEIRD

[0:58] We have to give a disclaimer…because we're doctors.

[2:21] Can hormones fix it?

[3:50] Why am I out of breath?

[10:39] Okay, now I'm dizzy.

[12:47] I can't hear you!

[20:30] My ears are itchy?!

[22:54] My mouth is on fire!

[26:46] Why am I cold all the time? (I thought I was supposed be HOT!)

[29:44] This is really weird. My fingers are…buzzing?

[33:08] We hope you feel better. You're NOT crazy!

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Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.