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Every woman's perimenopause journey has unique twists and turns, but one thing remains constant we shouldn't have to navigate it alone. This heartfelt episode brings together host Val Lego, menopause expert Nisha McKenzie, and Val's longtime friend Lauren for a candid conversation about the power of friendship during hormonal transitions.

The trio dives deep into the mysterious symptoms that leave many women questioning their sanity, from waking up at 2 AM with racing thoughts to suddenly forgetting words during important presentations. Lauren shares her frustration with brain fog that interfered with her public speaking as a city council member, while Val recounts her journey to hormone replacement therapy despite initial fears.

Nisha illuminates the science behind these experiences, explaining how our bodies contain over 400 estrogen receptors affecting everything from sleep patterns to joint health. She debunks common myths about hormone testing and treatment, offering practical guidance for women confused by conflicting information. Her explanation of how declining estrogen causes increased inflammation helps explain the mysterious ”frozen” joints that suddenly appear without warning.

What makes this conversation truly special is the authentic friendship on display. Lauren and Val demonstrate how having someone who understands these changes provides essential emotional support and occasional reality checks during ”tire-slashy” moods. Their easy laughter about ordering Girl Scout cookies during 3 AM insomnia reveals how shared experiences normalize this challenging transition.

Ready to find your own perimenopause support network? Come join our Pause Diaries Facebook group, where women just like you are sharing stories, asking questions, and supporting each other through every twist and turn of this journey. Because as this episode proves, perimenopause isn't the end of anything, it's the beginning of a new chapter, and it's always better with friends by your side.

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Join our private Facebook group, The Pause Diaries, where we dive deeper into all things perimenopause and menopause—without judgment, just real talk.

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Until next time, stay curious, stay empowered, and never hit pause on your wellbeing.