“Listen to Your Body”
On episode two of the My Bloody Hell podcast, guest Karen Campbell shared her harrowing but heartfelt story of being diagnosed with cervical cancer, and then subsequently being thrust into perimenopause. While Karen ultimately had a happy ending in that she was found to be cancer free after her radiation and chemotherapy treatment, her words of wisdom for all women at this stage of life is simple; listen to your body.
It Could be Cancer or it Could Be Nothing
Karen said she knew something was “off” in her body so she scheduled an appointment with her gynecologist who confirmed her cervical cancer diagnosis. But even after her cancer treatment, Karen says she is far more in tune with her body and she listens to its changing needs and abilities. She is far beyond lamenting what it can no longer do, and instead approaches her post-cancer, perimenopausal self with grace and an attitude of grattitude. She’s grateful for what her body can do, even if it’s not the same as what she could do in her younger years. The key thing is not to take anything for granted, and if something seems off, as it was for Karen, see your doctor right away.
It Could Be Perimenopause or it Could be Multiple Sclerosis
The funny thing about perimenopause, is that because it affects all systems of the body, it can show up in a myriad of ways and mimic serious dysfunction. In episode number one of the podcast, My Bloody Hell founder, Lori Tharps, shared how she was tested for multimple sclerosis by her neurologist because she was experiencing numbness and tingling in her arms and hands. Turns out it was perimenopause, not MS. But she wouldn’t have known that without seeking medical help, talking to other women, and searching for answers about what was ailing her.
Your Body Knows the Score
Many women in middle age find themselves too busy to stop and listen to their own bodies. They’re too busy taking care of their kids, their parents, jobs, and other life issues. But we all know that popular airplane mandate: “Put on your own mask before you help others.” Women must listen to their bodies, note the changes and seek help if those changes are worrisome or painful. Sometimes the changes might just be part of the aging process and nothing to worry about. Sometimes they might be a signal of perimenopause which tells you something about what your body is going through at that time. And sometimes it could be a sign of something serious, so you’ll be happy that you didn’t wait too long to take action. Your body knows the score, so all you have to do is listen.