You are so right, the problem I find here is that because I'm perimenopausal doctors just dismiss this as being normal. I had to search for a doctor who would take me seriously and work with me to help me to restore my hormones to a reasonable level. Still because of this time of life my hormones are all over the map, this combined with RSD pain makes it very difficult to measure hormone levels. I'm finding the best way for me to manage this is to keep track of my symptoms with a perimenopausal diary. My doctor then reviews it with me. It's been trial and error but I'm now taking cyclical progesterone in the form of a gel that I get in Europe and a small amount of testosterone (about 1/16th of a mans dosage) once every 3 days.

My dietary changes have helped improve things big time too. I do take many supplements but I still try to get the majority of my vitamins and minerals from my diet, but it's just not possible as I just can't eat that much.

I've eliminated almost all processed foods. I think that is a very key step as there are so many chemicals in processed foods. Be careful at the health food stores too, just because something has "organic" on the label doesn't always mean it's a healthier choice. I'm shocked at how much processed foods Whole Foods stocks on their shelves. There's nothing "whole" about a bag of Pirate booties, their answer to a Cheeses snack. Anyone see the documentary "Food Inc."? It's an eye opener that's for sure. If I don't know where the food is coming from I don't want to eat it. The fresher the better is my motto now. I try to support local farmers as much as possible. I still can't give up chocolate so I try to get the 70% dark chocolate to get the anti-oxidants.

Rest and relaxation is also key...

Wishing you all well.

MsL