In mid 40s F, recently went through surgical menopause, and now I’m seeing impact on my body. Weight gain in stomach and hips, fleshy skin, droopy breasts and sore joints from no estrogen.
Finally 6 months after surgery, I’ve been doing cardio and strength training at the gym. My grief for my past body is real. People tell me I should be grateful that my cancer don’t reoccur and that there are much worse things. But I am still sad.
Please note that I was never a smoking hot 10 but I was reasonably attractive before all thus happened. I’m not vain and just want to make the best of what I got.
Comments
Hormone replacement therapy is the easy route. A change in diet and exercise is the only other option. Soy products (like tofu and edamame), flaxseeds, nuts and seeds, dried fruits, and certain fruits like peaches and berries. These foods contain phytoestrogens, which can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.
Helped. Great ideas. My oncologist is anti HRT due to this cancer. So I am appreciative about other natural ways to mimic estrogen.
Strength training is such a great move post menopause. Muscle tone and joint support can really help. You might also explore a nutritionist familiar with post menopausal changes they can work wonders
It’s completely okay to grieve your body’s changes — that doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful. Surgical menopause is a major shift, and your feelings are valid. You’re doing amazing by showing up for yourself with exercise and care. Keep going — strength and grace can coexist with sadness.
Sadly even if you didn’t have cancer your body changes with perimenopause and menopause. I started perimenopause at 38; I’m 49 and still haven’t hit menopause yet 😭 Be kind to yourself
Don’t get down on yourself. I’m sure you’re still smoking hot just as you were before menopause 😊