77. Is It Perimenopause? 100+ Symptoms and How to Advocate for Yourself, with Meghan Rabbitt

Are you in your late 30s or your 40s and wondering if your sudden mood swings, brain fog, or even itchy ears are just stress—or if they are the start of perimenopause? You’re NOT alone, and it is perfectly normal to feel confused.In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, Cheryl is joined by veteran health journalist Meghan Rabbitt, author of the incredibly comprehensive new book, The New Rules of Women’s Health: Your Guide to Thriving at Every Age. We dive into why we need to move beyond "bikini medicine" and look at the whole picture of women's health. Meghan shares her expert research on decoding perimenopause, prepping for doctor appointments, and what your past pregnancies might reveal about your future heart health.What You’ll Learn:✔ The Symptom Checklist: Perimenopause encompasses over 100 different symptoms, including surprising ones✔ How to Prep for the Doctor: Treat your doctor's appointment like a meeting with your accountant by bringing a prioritized list of your symptoms ✔ The "Advocate" Strategy: Bringing a trusted friend or partner to your appointment is a game-changer  ✔ The Upsides of Menopause: The transition can lead to increased confidence, stepping into your own power, and caring less about the little things 🎯 OMG Moment:Track your symptoms. Know yourself. You'll be empowered to speak up and to get the care - and the discussions about that care - that you need.Take Action Today:Read the Book: Get Meghan's book, The New Rules of Women’s Health, to educate yourself on everything from gut and brain health to menopause.Find Meghan Online: Follow her on Instagram @meghanrabbitt or visit thenewrulesofwomenshealth.com for ongoing advocacy tips.Listen to MYM episodes on brain fog, hypnosis for menopause, and hormones.Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife.Find the GreenSynergy Elixir and Energy Fizz duo at cherylpfischer.com/greens. Grab your water bottle, add these, and enjoy!Support the show🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation?Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/rechargeLet’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women.Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website---------------💡If you are a brand or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast.  More information here.