keywords
menopause, perimenopause, women's health, symptoms, research, stress management, nutrition, sleep, doctor communication, PCOS

Summary

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, Navaz Habib and JP Errico engage with Andrea Donsky, a menopause researcher, to discuss the complexities of menopause and perimenopause. Andrea shares her personal journey into menopause research, highlighting the lack of awareness and understanding surrounding the symptoms women experience. The conversation delves into common symptoms, the impact of stress, the importance of nutrition, and the need for better communication between women and healthcare providers. Andrea emphasizes the significance of research in understanding menopause and the necessity for women to take control of their health during this phase of life.

Takeaways

• Andrea Donsky transitioned to menopause research after experiencing her own symptoms.
• Fatigue is the most common symptom reported by women in perimenopause.
• Many women are unaware of their perimenopausal status until symptoms become severe.
• Stress management is crucial for women experiencing menopause symptoms.
• Nutrition plays a foundational role in managing menopause symptoms.
• Doctor-patient communication regarding menopause is often inadequate.
• Women should not dismiss their health concerns as just part of aging.
• There are over 100 recognized symptoms of menopause and perimenopause.
• Research is needed to better understand the connection between PCOS and menopause.
• Women need to be proactive in managing their health during menopause.

Sound Bites

• "I had no idea that there was a word perimenopause."
• "Fatigue is the number one most common symptom."
• "We need to find ways to stimulate the parasympathetic better."