My perimenopause symptoms never included hot flashes. If you’re over 40 and you feel numb, unmotivated, and not like yourself, this is why I started HRT for perimenopause at 45.
I almost missed the signs. What I had was harder to name, and it started getting in the way of my work and my life. I waited 2 months for a doctor’s appointment to find out what was going on.
When I got there, my doctor asked if I was sure it wasn’t depression. I was sure. She prescribed the lowest dose of HRT, and I’m sharing how my first week went, including the side effect I had no idea was connected.
This is an audio episode from the Behind the Body podcast, so it’s just me talking to you like a friend.
I’m not a doctor, and this isn’t a recommendation. It’s my experience, shared as openly as I can.
⏰ TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Starting HRT for perimenopause at 45
0:23 New every-other-week schedule
1:33 When my perimenopause symptoms started
3:28 Perimenopause fatigue and feeling numb
4:28 When symptoms get in the way of work
4:41 Not wanting to cook or eat
5:02 Perimenopause brain fog and forgetting words
5:41 Sunday night dread (the “doom” feeling)
6:56 What I found on r/perimenopause on Reddit
7:46 Calling my endocrinologist about my symptoms
9:01 Why I kept a perimenopause symptom log
9:56 What my doctor said about my symptoms
10:31 No hot flashes: my HRT prescription
10:55 Day 3 on HRT: how I felt
12:50 HRT isn’t for everyone
13:18 My HRT follow-up plan with my doctor
14:23 HRT side effects I noticed in week 1
16:25 Wrap up and where to find me
RESOURCES:
💪 THE STRONG CORE METHOD: My 4-week at-home core program for women over 40, built for every level, even if you’ve never worked out a day in your life. 12 guided workouts per level with video demos, 20 minutes, 3 times a week, to build a stronger, more defined stomach:
📝 FREE FAT LOSS FORMULA WORKBOOK: Calculate your maintenance calories, your protein target, and your exact calorie deficit:
🎯 FREE METABOLISM TYPE QUIZ: Find out what’s stalling your weight loss after 40 and get your personalized action plan, so you leave with next steps built for you:
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👋🏻 ABOUT ME:
I’m Andrea, a double-certified NASM Nutrition and Fitness Coach and founder of Behind the Body. For 20 years, I under-ate, avoided weights, and lived on cardio, chasing skinny, and none of it gave me a body I was proud of. In my mid-30s, I changed my approach: more protein, real strength training, and a plan that fit my life. I lost 20 pounds, and 10 years later, at 45, I’m still maintaining it through perimenopause. I help women over 40 simplify their approach, build real strength, and get results that last. Every week, I cover the science, the strategy, and the honest truth about fat loss and maintenance for women over 40.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, exercise, or health routine. Results vary. Andrea is a NASM-certified Nutrition and Fitness Coach, not a doctor or registered dietitian.
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