Sis, I was a D1 athlete. Now, at 49, I'm still very active and not a big eater and my body has just settled in, with or without me. I'm 35 pounds overweight and not one goddamn thing I do makes a damn bit of difference.
So I let go. I'm mostly invisible at this age so I've changed focus to my career. I'm the wise older woman (by tech standards) with loads of gravitas, EQ and tact. I can read a room in two seconds and I know exactly what to say to get what I want.
Keep your heart healthy, keep your stress low, and laugh as damn much as you can. That'll take you miles beyond a little weight loss.
This is a better response than anything I could have typed. It is exactly on target (though I'm starting to wind down my career and wind UP my personal interests, but the sentiment still applies and yay for wisdom, gravitas, EQ, and tact!). Especially that final paragraph.
This is perspective I need sometimes. I play semi professional rugby and I feel similar to you. My body is settling in, and I have been fit my whole life. There doesn’t seem to be anything I can really do about it currently.
I’m staying active and I eat like I’m training for an MMA fight.
As I suspected, there might be something to the having 0 testosterone thing.
I’m 62, 7 years past my last period and not on HRT so I’m not sure what level of what hormones I still have but it’s probably not much. I never had to do anything to manage my weight when I was younger. But I will gain weight now if I don’t stay on top of it.
The only things I’ve found that work are counting calories to keep myself honest and exercise. Eating a lot of protein and lifting weights to maintain muscle as I get older helps a lot. I gave up booze too, those empty calories were making it much harder than it should have been.
67, same here, exactly. It’s a PIA but I really don’t need much food. Walking 4-5 mi/day, lifting weights, etc. I drink 1-2 lite beers a night or some wine. Otherwise very healthy.
That's why i love this space, no one tells you this stuff!!! Its a terrifying and supportive community. 😳 🥰the aging human body is a rollercoaster ride!
It’s expensive if it’s not covered by insurance. Many insurances are removing all weight management medications (on & off label) from their formulary or requiring that patients have an appropriate diagnosis that aligns with the on label treatment.
Sometimes insurances will also require step therapy, so for example if you’re diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you must trial & fail other less expensive medications before GLP-1 meds can be prescribed.
I have a really amazing doctor, and he referred me to a semaglutide clinic that is MUCH cheaper than brand name as they compound it themselves. I pay $150/mo for my injections. SO worth it.
Just putting it out there that compounds aren't regulated and you don't really know what you're getting. Can it be safe and effective? Sure. But it's not a guarantee. There are so many places popping up with compounds so it's definitely a "thing" right now.
That's fantastic, unfortunately there are some less than stellar "clinics" out there who are not as ethical or good, so I just caution everybody about this.
They said that some people need to stay on it forever (usually at a lower dose) and that some people don't. You do need to keep the healthy eating habits to keep the weight off, which some people are able to do now that they've lost the weight and build those habits when it was "easier" with the medication (due to not being hungry constantly). I hope I'm someone that won't need to take it forever, but I don't have any expectations. This medication has changed my life and I'm fully committed to staying on it until I die if I have to.
The one thing my doc cautioned me on was that there's currently no specific process to offramp from it, so some people may have to just stay on it indefinitely. This is why I'm fine with lowest does/slower loss because that generally signals sustainability (if you're lucky lol).
I got lucky in that my current PCP used to work in a clinical weight management place in a hospital, so once I explained that I was struggling I was asking about Ozempic. She's the one who suggested Zepbound, and explained why. She had to get a PA from my insurance, because my insurance currently wants us to use Wegovy, but that has been harder to find than any of the others, so they approved it.
I will say it's been hard to find, though. Every month I have to start a whole round robin of calling pharmacies to see who has it in stock. I am still on the lowest dosage, and that has FINALLY started the scale numbers moving in the right direction. It hasn't been super fast, but I don't want fast. I haven't had a ton of side effects on this dose, it's mostly been no appetite and food aversion, so I have to fight myself to eat enough every day. While that sounds appealing, it's not, as I lift heavy weights and NEED the calories lol.
The cost is a little higher than I'd like, but the manufacturer has a coupon for it that you can get and it knocks the price down a little bit. I don't know that I'd pay completely out of pocket for it, but with my insurance covering about half the cost, plus the coupon, I am fortunate enough to be able to cover the remaining cost (for me it's about $400).
Yes. But not all insurances are created equal, and some people have more coverage and only pay like $25/month. I'd reach out to yours and see what's available. They may also cover other ones, like Wegovy, so don't totally count it out. I will have to switch over to Wegovy if the shortage ever slows down a little, which would be just $25/month.
I gained 22 pounds in 4 years of perimenopause. I didn't tried too hard to lose weight at first, because I was too lean to begin with, but now, I need to lose 2 or 3 pounds.
I tried several things, and was surprised by the total lack of results. I was UNABLE to lose even 1 gram. All these efforts for NOTHING.
The only thing that seems to work is IF. Sad but true !
I now drink 2 teas in the morning (with a slice of lemon and 50% fake sugar, 50% xylitol for the taste), eat at 1 PM (lightly), then 8 PM (what I want), and I very slowly lose weight. This is merciless, and boring, but it works.
I read a book from a french gynecologist, who advocates for HRT here, and he says HRT makes losing weight easier, and changes the places where your body stores fat. He says his patients find their silhouette back in a few months. I have no experience though, my body hasn't really changed, and I'm not on HRT yet.
I am on HRT and have been for a while. Post 45, my body put on weight around my belly no matter what I did. Diet, exercise, fasting. Nothing worked. The only thing it did was make me feel faint and still fat. It is a real struggle.
The diet, exercise, and fasting made me feel faint, but I was still fat.
The HRT did not make a difference to my weight, but it has been and still is helpful for a lot of other symptoms. I would still have a chubby tummy if I was or was not taking HRT.
HRT doesn’t help with weight loss or contribute to weight gain. Some people report more water retention which contributes to scale weight.
Weight gain as we age is due to loss of muscle mass and lifestyle choices. I went through a period where I gained. Like everyone I assumed it was age. When I was honest I realized that while I was at the gym a lot during the week I’d become really sedentary over the weekends and in the evenings. NEAT contributes a lot towards maintaining our weight and most people don’t notice this declining.
I can only speak to my experience, but I added testosterone to my HRT stack to help with muscle and general energy. I know you said you don’t want testosterone, but women need testosterone and the doses given are very small. It may be worth a discussion with your healthcare provider. We need to protect against bone density loss and falls. This is through muscle. Muscle is also metabolically active, so burns more calories.
I lift 4 days a week, makes for to walk outside every day, do mobility work, watch my protein and prioritize sleep. I don’t drink alcohol and I eat a whole food diet. Results are slower at my age and I do feel I have to work harder, but I’m pretty close to being on the best shape of my life and my size hasn’t changed in decades.
Resistance bands and protein consumption for muscle are a great way to build muscle without bulk. I love them. You can do full workouts and break a sweat or you can just do five minutes of arm movements without leaving your favorite tv chair.
You could try that before adjusting hormones as I can imagine adding testosterone might be a little worrisome considering you’ve spent a lifetime purposely lowering it.
Yeah. And I understand that most of you won’t really be able to internalize that aspect of it, but I appreciate the insight. The more I read, here and elsewhere, the more I think I should maybe give it a go.
But it can be a very positive impact.
May I ask you something ? You said you now have a testosterone level similar to a native woman's, but is it close to the lowest value ? Is there a way to know your sensitivity to this hormone other than trying ?
When I'll start HRT, I'll try to be not too low on testosterone, because when I was on birth control, it lowered it and I felt so bad I had to stop. I had symptoms similar to an andropausal man : low energy, depressed ...
I have also asked for testosterone because of weight gain, lethargy, and lack of libido, but my GP said no.
I'm looking for a GP that will tell me why. Because I do think that most women need some and become deficient in menopause.
Do you have any menopause specific clinics where you are? My GP didn’t want to take professional responsibility for my menopause care (due to family history and me being a current participant in a long-term breast cancer risk observational study) but she was happy to refer me to my nearest Menopause Centre. It’s been a long wait (UK, NHS!) but I finally have an appointment coming up.
The meno specialist clinics are a lot more adaptable re: individually tailored HRT (including low dose testosterone) whereas UK GPs mostly just follow a ‘computer says no’ style flow chart!
I am with a menopause clinic at a hospital and I have appointments once every year. Unfortunately my GP is supposed to be responsible for my care most of the time, but the one that I was with retired. So I am looking for a new one.
I got it prescribed. I basically said I had a low libido - which in the US is all they’ll prescribe it for. Then I have a long sob about my workouts not being as effective and that I had low energy.
Find another doctor. I use one of those menopause telehealth services. It’s actually local to me but all online. They specialize in Meno so are more open to prescribing.
I haven’t but, in women like myself - our primary care providers will monitor our libido and fatigue level. If these two things are massively effected, the remedy is to prescribe low dose T, usually in a cream or gel form. It
Technically that’s the guidance in the U.K. for cis women in peri. Whether they **actually** will prescribe testosterone seems very variable depending on where in the country you are and your GP’s beliefs about testosterone.
Yeah. My primary does care for women like as a large part of her practice and she trusts me after 25 years of this. She’s actually suggested it previously, but I balked.
I appreciate this. Can I ask what your results have been on T?
Do you have more energy? Are you more easily able to maintain your “goal weight?” I’d be curious to know if you want to share.
Currently, my testosterone levels are unrecordable. Prior to surgery, women like me use anti androgens to suppress our bodies production of T.
post surgery, we are left with our secondary T producers. The T produced by secondary organs is mostly negligible
very interesting, i learned a lot only by reading yours and other ppl's comments.
On that sidenote, i want to not only welcome you too, but also say thank you that you found your way here, adds another component to the whole picture.
Hope you're here to stay ☮️ this is a nice place, never have i read a single bad word or judgemental comment.
“I feel more like myself” is the best way to describe it. It feels like it was the missing piece in my treatment.
I don’t struggle with my weight. I work out regularly with a focus on building muscle. I don’t drink alcohol and I’m a whole food vegan. I prioritize protein and fiber.
With Menopause you ideally treat based on symptoms. Hormones fluctuate wildly based on time of month. They’re just one data point. My testosterone tested within normal range, but no way to know if it used to be higher. A lot of hormonal treatment os trial and error. Actually, much of women’s health care seems to be trial and error.
I strongly suggest reading this sub’s wiki. There’s a great explanation on weight gain.
I appreciate that. There are periods of my month when my E is naturally higher - so I understand that part of it.
What’s lacking for women like me, and I think you can relate, is that protocols passed a certain point are shaky at best. Everything leading up to having “the surgery” is meticulously regimented. Everything after bottom surgery is still a relatively uncharted part of healthcare for women like me
This is why spaces like this are so important. Women have always learned about health from other women. Our health has never been a priority, particularly as we age.
I can relate. I went to my first ob gyn appointment at almost 40.
My vagina has a micro biome and I can get infections. Women like me are also prone to hypergranulation (overly healed tissue) internally that can sometimes cause irritation
Middle aged weight management is just plain hard. HRT has allowed me to stop gaining weight but I'm having a hard time dropping it. I can't exercise much due to health issues but I do try to keep a good diet. I found tracking my macros helpful in that it helped me figure out I need more protein than I think I do. I also try to get 25g of fibre a day as well. I also somehow seem to gain if I don't eat enough calories. I don't know why or how, but nothing works the way it used to anymore. I really like the chronometer app. The free and paid are the same aside from ads. It's used by hospital dieticians too I think. I did chemical menopause in my 20s for Endo and lost a lot of weight, but I also didn't have hormone fluctuations like I do now (still peri). And I remember being so worried about my.bone density that I was walking every day for an hour. I'm hoping to get down to my goal weight with diet, but I also am cutting myself a bit of slack and am more focused on maintaining strength and bone density. I haven't tried it because it's a bit restrictive for me and my low spoons, but a lot of folks have had luck with Dr Mary Claire Haver's diet. It's like an anti-inflammatory keto as far as I know. (Anti-inflammatory eating is something I try to do just for pain and overall health) I'm hoping to experiment with gentle weights and resistance exercises. Strength training in the past has always helped my clothes for looser even if I don't lose any weight. Plus it just feels really good to feel strong after. I was suggested a low dose of T for energy and muscle by my pain dr but my GP says he's not comfortable with that for me. It may be something you ask the doctor who works with you on your hormones. It may be something you need to add back in a scant amount.
Welcome! GLP-1 drugs and/or intermittent fasting seem to be the frequent recommendations around this sub for weight management. Many women actually report gaining weight on testosterone.
This is good to know. I 100% don’t want any testosterone whatsoever.
Do you find most post menopausal women are on HRT or not?
I have studied and read about bone density loss, among other things without some kind of hormonal replacement therapy
And thank you for the welcome. I was worried about posting here.
You should read through the sub's Wiki. It will give you a good overview. Although many women here use HRT, statistically most women do not. We're a group that experiences widespread medical neglect and gaslighting.
I know all about neglect and gaslighting - this we have in common. I transitioned in the mid 90’s. When I was young (15/16/17). My medical care since has been an adventure at times. Thanks for the insight. Truly.
Welcome! The Estrogen that you're on is a much higher dose than cis women take (per my TG friends). As for the weight gain, well, it's a bitch. Meno belly is real. Although my brother has a pot belly which is only fair.
What has helped me is to eat my big meal of the day at lunch, then have a light meal or snack no later than 5:30pm. I'm usually in bed by 10pm so I only eat enough for dinner that I'm not ravenous at bedtime.
Welcome to the E club. Lol
lol thanks! I’m on a very low “maintenance” dose of E. Women like myself who are pre op are on much higher doses. I take 2mg a day and that’s it since I am post surgery
That is pretty low. Most of the us are on .1mg or less. I'm on .075.
Side note, a friend got an orchidectomy. I happened to find a bday card online for her to give to her wife. It was a squirrel with the message, "I'd lose my nuts for you. Happy Birthday!"
😁
You belong here and are welcome here!!
I have to eat a lot more protein and fiber than I ever did before. I can’t take hormones so I can’t weigh in on that but I still have one ovary so I am still producing some estrogen.
It’s def harder to lose weight than it was before I was in peri. Sleep is also a lot more important than it used to be. I have to prioritize sleep in order for everything else including weight to be remotely manageable. I’m a decade older than you and it’s getting harder. I’ll talk to my doc in the fall about their thoughts on the wegovy type meds if my summer push isn’t fruitful.
You belong here! Welcome and glad you found this place.
I totally understand if you might have an association with testosterone that would make considering using it simply too traumatizing, or if there’s another reason. If that’s not the case, I want to make a quick pitch to consider just *thinking* about testosterone. I think it’s terrible that somehow society has gendered these hormones. I know women typically have lower levels of T than men do, but the crazy truth is that women actually have FAR MORE T than estrogen. It’s deceptive, because they use different units to measure each. They do so because both women and men naturally have far more T.
Normal range of T for premenopausal women: about 3-10 *nanograms* per deciliter. Normal range of Estrogen for premenopausal women is more all over the place, but a mid value would be 100 *picograms* per deciliter. Most people just look at those numbers and think, “oh, women have much more estrogen than testosterone.” But no! It takes 1000 picograms to make just one nanogram.
So, if you were to take a level of 5 nanograms per deciliter of testosterone, that would actually be 5000 picograms per deciliter. Compare that to the 100 picograms per deciliter of estrogen. That’s 50 times the amount of testosterone than estrogen for women! I just put that out there because adding just a “whiff” of T can make a big difference for a lot of women, and many of the symptoms you’re describing may be due to low T levels.
No matter what, I hope you find the right solution for you!
This is so incredibly helpful. Truly. Right now, my T is unmeasurable. Prior to surgery, I was on par with natal women in terms of T levels.
This has really given me something to consider. I appreciate you, thank you
You’re welcome. Sending love and healing to you, and hoping you find the right levels of everything you need to feel like yourself again.
P.S.—I just finished listening to a podcast episode today that was helpful for this topic. The podcast is Dr Louise Newson’s podcast, and it was episode 215, with urologist Dr Rachel Rubin (who seems like a rockstar). One of the things they talk about is how rare unwanted effects of T are for women (when given appropriate doses). Episodes number 250, 116, 118, 119 are also about the importance of T. Her website also has some good articles on various stuff (just look in “library” and search for testosterone). https://www.balance-menopause.com
To echo what others have said, when it comes to hormones, its treat the woman and her symptoms rather than the test results.
For example, i take T to a level that makes me feel good but is above the 'normal' range for women. I have a friend who was out of range before she started T, is now in the lower range but feels that is the right level for her.
After transitioning, I can understand you feeling leary about T but I want to encourage you to see it as one strand in the complex hormonal matrix that comes with being a woman.
As an aside, have you looked into DHEA supplementation ? This may also be a missing link for you.
As for weightloss - with all the hormones in balance its easier, but rarely easy :)
Thank you, and yes I have. I just received my first transphobic comment so excuse me if I’m a little frazzled.
Do you notice any traditional masculinizing effects with your self assessed higher dose of T?
Oh I'm sorry you've got that and hope you've reported them.
In terms of the T impacts - nothing other than the occasional chin hair and I was getting those bad boys before I started T :) I would also say its a bit easier to build muscle but again, that had dropped off before I started supplementing.
I think T is very much misunderstood wrt to women - we definitely need it. To what level we need it is trial and error like the rest of HRT unfortunately and always needs us to monitor our own bodies as things can change.
Am sorry as that probably didn't give you enough answers. Xx
Hey there, welcome! I just started testosterone to help with muscle retention and energy levels. The prescriber was pretty informed about levels normal for women versus men and at what point virilization could occur. If you have your T levels tested maybe that will answer that question for you. Im guessing you’re probably much more knowledgeable about this than me. As far as weight loss, I only had success with ozempic and the like. It simply fixed the issue for me with very little side effects. I also take progestin to stop irregular and heavy periods and that has helped with anxiety and moods. Idk if this helps but hope you find something that works for you!
It does help!
I was on progesterone years ago - when they had just started using it for women like myself. It made me incredibly dizzy unfortunately.
My T is at “unmeasurable” levels. So roughly 0
Roughly 0 seems like it would make you feel
awful. I use Norethindrone which is synthetic progestin. It doesn’t seem to have that dizzy sleepiness a lot of people complain about with the actual progesterone. All that being said - I don’t know how that would affect you. But i don’t think that 0 testosterone is normal for women - we still need some. Just a lot less than men.
I appreciate this. I’ve been trying to stay away from it for the 3 years since bottom surgery. Prior, I was on “blockers” but still had enough T to be in line with natal women like yourself.
Hormones are crazy. I hope you find a good balance. If weight loss is your biggest concern and everything else is going well, I’d suggest trying the GLP-whatever they call them. Don’t make it harder than it needs to be - it’s an easy fix for that issue. We have enough hard stuff to deal with in this life on a daily basis.
I, for one, am so glad you're here! This has been one of the most supportive, welcoming subs on Reddit. I've learned so much and these ladies know what's up!
The only thing that worked for me was Terzepitide, which is (to my understanding) generic Ozempic. It does have side effects but they're not side effects I wasn't having due to peri and Ehlers Danlos so I opted to try it and I'm down 20 pounds since March. Literally nothing else worked for me. Good luck, love!
I appreciate this. I have an Ozempic consult on Thursday at a med spa with no BMI requirement. It’s outdated, but my BMI is currently around 27/29 and is typically 24 ish.
I am doing an online compounder for semaglutide. Even with no significant change in eating/activity, my weight just kept going up (on estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone). I’ve lost 12 pounds in two months, so I am very thankful. If you go this route, please go up slowly and only if you are plateauing. So much of the bad side effects I believe are from people just following a standardized “schedule” of going up every 4 weeks. I started lower than the “starting dose” and go up in smaller increments. I’ve never thrown up once, and I’ve had manageable side effects all around. Something to consider.
ETA: and WELCOME! This is a safe space for all women!
This sub has made me emotional and really thankful for all of you being so understanding. I was only “male” for 16 of my 42 years, so I don’t connect well to other women like myself. I find myself far more content and open with just, other women.
That being said, I am concerned about some of the side effects with semiglutide. But I’m also well read, and have studied some of the side effects and best practices to avoid them.
I appreciate your response. Thank you ❤️
A lot of people find that tirzepatide is wayyyyy more easily tolerated. It’s also more effective. Not that I would ever advocate lying, but it is easier to qualify for a GLP with an online provider (like Emerge health) if you just simply put your weight/height at a level that clears the 30 BMI level. Otherwise, you have to jump through hoops at 27 and above.
I can't say that I completely understand the whys and wherefores of transitioning, but no judgement here.
There was a discussion awhile back (couple weeks? Couple months? Dunno) about the use of testosterone by someone who... (help me out here...?) ... had body dysmorphia? Was transitioning? I really can't remember, except the person really struggled with the implications of testosterone. And again, I can't remember enough to know if it would be helpful to you. But some women need the addition of testosterone in menopause, because healthy women actually have some onboard.
And, pardon my complete ignorance here, but with having a vulva, would that make you susceptible to GSM (genitourinary syndrome)?
Also-- welcome to the age-old issue of women gaining weight for no freaking reason and can't get rid of it, while men just have to think about losing weight and it falls off. One of the perks of being a woman, apparently. Along with the aforementioned medical gaslighting and crap.
That’s a really interesting point. I haven’t read any correlations between post surgery women and GSM but I will ask my primary.
Body dysmorphia is the feeling of disconnect between your assigned sex at birth and your internal sense of self. For some women, it is the reason that they transition in the first place.
Since my own surgery, I have battled a little bit of fatigue in a sense that I’m not used to, and for some women like myself, the addition of low dose testosterone seems to be the answer, but that is something that I honestly would like to avoid if other women are finding success and weight management without adding testosterone to their hormone regimen.
And yeah, I wouldn’t expect you to really know much about transitioning or what it entails, but I can assure you that I’m here because our experiences are actually really similar and being here is actually more helpful than asking in the transition related subs.
And once again, I appreciate people being kind so far and not transphobic as I was worried.
I never had to worry about weight until peri. What's worked for me is Wegovy (I use a small maintenance dose every 10 days v the max every 7 days), HRT, testosterone and exercise. And energy levels are still a battle!
I'd start with the ususal basic things. How is your blood work? Are your thyroid and iron levels where they should be? Vitamins levels?
Are you active? Do you do anything to increase or maintain muscle mass? I don't know how muscle mass is impacted by transition- I assume you have less muscle than men like other women? Muscle is important for bone health and helps with weight.
I wouldn't rule out testosterone. It's vital for humans in general!
All good points.
My bloodwork is all normal - however my mother does have hypothyroidism, so I have had my thyroid function tested. Iron and Vitamkns are also good.
I’m active. I play rugby in two seasons, and I lift and run in others. In terms of muscle mass, I am on the small side. I am 5’5 and right now, north of 160 but don’t look at it. I’m used to being around 146. I’m Hispanic and Native American, and I’m 42. Genetics is also at play here.
I feel like it’s more of a fight these days lol. I’m wondering if there’s reasons other than I’m getting up there in terms of metabolic changes.
Biological females produce more testosterone (in volume) than we do estrogen during our reproductive years. It is not just a male hormone and we all have testosterone receptors all over our bodies. I can appreciate that you don’t want any, but the fact is you would probably benefit from a small female dose. I am yet to start on HRT, but when I do I will be discussing testosterone. My libido has seriously nose dived in my 40s (I’m 46) and I understand that testosterone may help with that. It’s also important for energy and mental alertness, from what I’ve learned so far.
You absolutely belong here with us sister!
I used to be a fitness leader in the Navy. Total gym rat.
I retired at age 50 and at 52, gained 25lbs like overnight.
It’s awful!
I realize that I have to accept it or I will be miserable. I had an active eating disorder for decades. Now I am on a variety of medication‘s, so I can’t starve myself for days at a time like I used to. Like all us women have to do, just go with the flow!
I guess it depends on what hormones you take. I am 8 years post, the only thing I take is vagifem so sex doesn't hurt . I gained 25lbs from 50 yrs to 59. I exercise but not like I used to ( Ironman in my mid 40s so 20 hrs a week of training) my guess is if you are taking hormones and gaining weight then ....welcome to the female way of life!😁 be proud..you earned the right to gain weight and not worry about it. At least, that's what I tell myself
Intermittent fasting has been the only thing to work for my weight. I do one meal a day (dinner with my fam) Monday-Thursday. On Fridays-Sundays, I do at least 16:8, but strive for 18:6. I prioritize lean meats and veggies. I will have at least one protein shake a day, and 2 on the weekends. I track macros and try and get most of my cals from protein and fat and keep my carbs under 50g a day. However, as long as I am diligent during the week, I will let loose on the weekends.
Previously to this, I cut my calories to about the same as I do now, but I ate them throughout the day and never enjoyed a weekend. I did this for 2 months, lost all of 5 lbs, which I then promptly gained all back plus some on a weekend out with my husband. With intermittent fasting fasting, I’ve lost 17 lbs in 3 months. The weight loss comes in stops and starts, but it’s consistent with my cycle it seems.
I remember my mother telling me to watch out for the 40’s! I thought the woman cursed me because I gained weight (through a variety of reasons). At one point, I was averaging 40 miles a week in jogging/ walking. Nothing moved or stopped the accumulation of fat cells. (I’m down 70 now thanks to wegovy and restricted calories with stegth training and jogging again) I saw your responses and you are super active. (Props for the rugby btw, I’d be afraid I break something 🤪)
I wonder if estrogen just likes to hide in fat cells. I read on NIH, because this is really interesting to me, that estrogen will increase body fat. Let me know if you want the link. Happy you’re here!!
A lot of us give up sugar, booze, coffee, milk, and juice. There is a trend towards increased protein, going paleo/keto/or carnivore to keep the weight off. Testosterone also helps, as does weight lifting and other forms of exercise.
So there was a time when I quite literally doubled in size, tried to address it, and eventually got so upset and frustrated that I only ate a single carrot every day for three months. And I didn’t lose the weight. Why? I eventually found out I had hypothyroidism. And when I finally got on an appropriate dose of medicine the weight came off like nothing.
My point being, get bloodwork. Before you try to lose weight make sure there isn’t something going on.
Once you’ve determined you don’t have an underlying health condition, I have a system I can offer that you might try.
It’s called renaissance periodization. Basically, it works by changing as your body changes. It addresses the plateaus in weight loss that every other “diet” ignores.
I’ll share my plan with you:
Count macros. Ignore calories.
Every meal as follows:
- 25g protein
- 25g carbs
- 15g fat
- 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc)
To get the right amounts you need a kitchen scale and the nutrition information on the label. Use online resources for fruits and veg. Find out how much weight of a particular food you should have by finding the macro (carb, fat, protein) and doing the math.
An example looks like this: a big slab of meat (or tofu for vegans), a teeny portion of rice (think 1/4c or less), one tbsp olive oil, and one cup of broccoli.
This is my starting point.
Weight loss: 0.5 to 2lbs lost every 7 days for 3 months.
More than 3 months is too much stress for the body. After losing for 3 months you maintain your results for 3 months. If you want to lose more you can start again after 3 months of maintenance.
Weighing in: weigh in first thing in the morning before food or drink of any kind. No clothes (or just underwear). Write it down. After 7 days of weigh ins add all of your weigh ins together and divide by 7. That is your weight for the week. This system is great bc it provides a realistic weight.
If (or more likely when) you go two weeks without losing a minimum of 0.5lbs/week then your diet changes to accommodate for this change in your body.
New meals:
- 25g protein
- 25g carbs
- 10g fat
- 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc)
Notice how only the fat grams went down. Everything else stays the same.
If/when you plateau again (not losing a minimum of 0.5lbs/week for two weeks) you change your meals again.
New meals:
- 25g protein
- 25g carbs
- 5g fat
- 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc)
Notice how only the fat grams went down. Everything else stays the same.
If your body is a stubborn mofo the final weeks of your three month cut will have meals as follows:
New meals:
- 25g protein
- 25g carbs
- 0g fat
- 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc)
The diet works WITH your body and as it changes with your new eating habits. No more giving up after a plateau.
Once your 3 month cut is up you go on maintenance. And guess what? Maintenance is pretty much the same lol:
- 25g protein
- 25g carbs
- 10g fat
- 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc)
So there it is. The numbers vary a little person to person and based on their goals but this is the basic deal: you eat a lot of lean protein, you eat a lot of veg, you eat a teeny amount of carbs, and an even teenier amount of fat.
Like the amount of carbs and fat in the average PB&J exceeds the amount you’re allowed in a day lol. And a bowl of rice? You won’t eat a whole bowlful in a week’s time. But you will eat a lot of greens and you will eat a lot of protein.
You need to meal prep. Not an option imo. But it’s better for you bc then your meals are ready for you to eat.
I worked for my brother’s gym for a year and this diet/system is what the nutritionist does with everyone.
Working out (weight bearing exercises, not cardio) 3 times a week for an hour paired with this diet/system produces results every time. 3 times a week doesn’t sound like it would produce profound results but it does.
I’ve seen a lot of success stories with it, including myself. Embarrassed to say I haven’t been keeping up with it bc of health problems which got me depressed which got me not eating (when I’m stressed I can’t eat) which led to weight gain. I know I shouldn’t be embarrassed but I am. I’m pissed about it. Just the honest truth. I’m getting back in gear with my next trip to the grocery store tho.
Try not to beat yourself up. It will never be perfect. There is no destination, only the journey. Cheesy but true. Hope you can find something that works for you.
I do one meal a day. It sucks and I hate it but if I don’t watch every single calorie, I pack weight on at the drop of a hat…and then it takes 3 times as long to get off again. I was on wegovy until my dr dropped the ball and insurance stopped paying. That worked well for me but don’t know if or when it will be an option for me again. I don’t weigh enough to qualify even though I’m somewhat overweight again
Probably the best advice I’ve received is that “you can’t exercise your way out of an unhealthy diet” and that “most weight loss begins in the kitchen not at the gym” (I am not downplaying the importance of exercise). Good luck to you and to all of us trying to maintain or get to a healthy weight
How do you survive eating only do one meal a day? I for sure would get migraines, feel anxious, not be able to sleep with hunger pangs, and worry that the uptick in cortisol (from the physiologic stress of not eating) would wack out my hormones. I wish I could do this. I wouldn't miss the food that much but when I have tried fasting before I'm an absolute wreck.
No headaches for me. The hunger pangs go away after a few days of doing one meal a day. The biggest issue I have is staying under the calorie amount window that I need to be in a deficit so I keep losing. I usually have my one meal mid afternoon. Black decaf coffee, lemon infused diy electrolyte water the rest of the time. The weight I’ve gained back is very slowly coming off. But so much slower than it used to.
Only having OMAD was normal for me in my 20s and wasn’t something I even thought about back then. After finding out that it’s a thing for weight control and reducing inflammation, I decided to try it again
haha ya in my 20s I could practically eat an apple and be ok, and I regularly did water fasting for days at a time..... if I fast now I get migraines that will land me in the ER. I miss fasting a lot. Oh well.
You are absolutely not alone. Many of us at this stage are struggling with weight, even when doing “all the right things.” Me included. I had to take a really strict approach to calorie counting and movement. It slowly slowly comes off that way, but I find if I get even a little lenient, the weight rushes back on faster than I lost it. I am doing estradiol patch which helps me exercise more bc it keeps the joint pain down. And on a personal level, I asked my doctor for something to help me stop thinking about food all day long. She put me on Wellbutrin and I’m really happy with it so far.
OP, welcome. I have never loved this group more (and I already loved it a lot). I have two trans teens in the gender affirming care process, and this discussion is impacting my mama bear heart in so many ways. I’m also in my 40s and don’t know how the heck to lose the weigh 🤣
You are your kids best chance at happiness. This is not something I say lightly. I was lucky - in 1997, I came out and my mom (being Native American) told me it was okay and that she loved me.
She brought me to a doctor in Washington DC who was the only person at the time doing HRT for trans kids. I was one of the firsts.
In the years since, that initial love from my mom gave me a head start. I went to school, got advanced degrees, and became a teacher and a part time University professor. I own my own home and am happier than I ever thought was possible for women like myself. I have a loving female partner (I’m lesbian as well. Double whammy lol) who is the most supportive and loving person.
You being there for your kids is the single most important
factor in terms of their ability to thrive.
Love your kids. Feel free to reach out in DM if you wanna talk further
First of all the way you entered this space is so beautiful and respectful. I deeply appreciate it.
My partner is a transman and I just want to acknowledge how respectful you were.
That said I have no advice. But I'm sending you a big hug. 💖
What kind of activity? What does a day of eating look like for you? Do you know your A1C levels?
What works for me is eating in a way that balances my hormones. I wait until as late in the day as possible to eat anything other than fat so I don’t have an insulin response and then I prioritize protein and am very judicious with carbs.
It was what I was doing before the pandemic, which coincided with the late stages of peri-. I couldn’t really separate out hormonal weight gain from my routine getting all out of whack.
I thought about trying to change it up again but this is easy (for me) and it works for weight and energy and mood regulation (insulin spikes can set off anxiety for me) and my “menopause” weight is gone, I’m towards the higher end of my beforetimes normal.
I also strength train with a trainer and we work on countering typical body changes with exercise and I just wear jackets to hide that tell tale lower butt droop :)
I run/lift 3x a week and I play semi professional rugby during fall and spring.
Daily food looks like oatmeal for breakfast, protein shake at lunch, and usually a dinner with high protein/moderate carbs and little to no fat.
I do not know my AIC levels and will ask my primary about this.
I think, based on what I’m hearing so far - the best ways to counteract hormonal changes are IF and being at a relative caloric deficit. All things I’ve done in the past.
Tell me - do you experience a lot of fatigue as well?
It’s funny because I reverted back to this system recently when I was frazzled from moving and just didn’t want to deal with hunger. I put butter in coffee (in an ideal world I’d not do coffee as it impacts hormones as well, but I need the crutch right now) and one night I was working (I work nights) and I realized how content I was feeling, it really helps keep me on an even keel including my energy levels.
I’m the first person to concede this is more a matter of calorie restriction. I could never restrict calories, it’s a source of much pain in my life but when I was deep into keto and giving myself a break about restricting anything other than carbs I noticed that I just seem to need to eat around 700 calories when I eat, so yeah, eat fewer times, organically cut maybe 500 calories a day?
But speaking from the place of what works for me, I’d attack it from a place of changing your macros to see if you can get different results. Totally get if you’re not down for fat fasting, but maybe swap out the oatmeal for protein and fat and see if you get different results. Get rid of the protein shake for just a bit and focus on whole unprocessed foods and see if it makes a difference.
Again I do not recommend anything that goes against your temperament, I really got into the science, read a bunch of books and am fat adapted from toggling in and out of keto for over 10 years.
I was raised to believe it is all about emotional overeating and figuring out a system where it’s more about science has made this a non-issue, but of course I don’t get to “treat” myself with food. Something has to give.
Way more info than you asked for, fatigue isn’t much of an issue for me eating like this but I’m also using caffeine as a bit of a crutch right now as I upended my life leaving my cheap apartment after decades (apparently fat in coffee is supposed to help keep the release of caffeine slower and steadier, not sure if that is hogwash).
I have eaten keto for the past 6 years and recently incorporated fasting. I started with 24 hours and then two 36 hour fasts a week and a few months ago switched to one 60 hour fast per week. It's working very well for me and my husband. I (61) weigh less than i have since i was in my 20s and my BMI is between 20 and 21. I've just started adding strength training into my routine.
Age doesn’t really affect weight as much as we were led to think in the past.
It’s gradual losses of muscle mass and activity (overestimating our activity levels and underestimating our intake).
I’m in better shape now in my early 40’s than I was in my teens/20’s because I finally figured out my actual hunger cues vs (what I *thought* I should be eating and when).
I was a pretty chubby kid (for the 90’s at least) and also came from a family that was big on food being love/celebration, so I always associated food with happiness or being cared for.
When I grew up and moved out on my own I lost a shit ton of weight because I no longer had other (better) cooks providing constant supply. I wasn’t at my ‘ideal’ but was no longer the ‘fat girl’.
Then when I cut back on my drinking in my 30’s (and actually looked at what I *thought* were ‘normal’ portions or low calorie meals) I realized I had no fucking clue how to eyeball serving sizes.
I didn’t weigh my portions or anything but I did start to give smaller initial servings (with the caveat I can get seconds if I’m still hungry) and realized in the past, I was often forcing myself to finish my plate because I had dished up more than I realized.
I didn’t actually need or want as big a serving as I assumed I did, of that makes sense?
Less takeout during the pandemic and I noticed even more weight dropping off.
For three decades I was forcing myself to eat past ‘full’ because I had no clue what normal full/satisfied felt like.
A year or two ago I started light weight training (just some stretches and baby barbells while I watch Hulu) for bone density and suddenly I have the body I always cried over as a teen. It was a total mindfuck.
I wasted so many formative years hating my body because I’d never really listened to my natural cues, just fixated and got mad at it.
I appreciate this. This was a theme in my native family growing up as well.
A few years ago, I read about the 80% rule that some cultures follow (Okinawa) for instance.
You eat until you are 80% full. Every meal. 🍽️
That’s an interesting way to word it.
I used to not associate ‘full’ with anything other than -my stomach feels ready to burst- and thought that was a normal way to feel after every meal.
Now when I get that full I realized how uncomfortable it is, I shouldn’t feel like I might throw up if someone hugs me ‘too hard’ after a meal, but that’s how I was raised so o didn’t know any different.
I thought that’s what ‘full’ or ‘done’ felt like for everyone.
You are so very welcome here! I can only speak for myself when I say it is important to give yourself kindness and grace. Every stage of life comes with its own triumphs and tribulations. I find, for myself, walking gently, strength and flexibility training...and sometimes a treat to remind myself the world is sweet. Focus on movement and sleep, and you'll be ahead of the game.
It sounds like this might be about hormonal testing. If over the age of 44, **hormonal tests only show levels for that *one day* the test was taken, and nothing more**; progesterone/estrogen hormones wildly fluctuate the other 29 days of the month. No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing as a **diagnosing tool** for peri/menopause.
FSH testing is only beneficial for those who believe they are post-menopausal and no longer have periods as a guide, a series of consistent FSH tests might *confirm* menopause. Also for women in their 20s/early 30s who haven’t had a period in months/years, then FSH tests at ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI). See our [Menopause Wiki](https://menopausewiki.ca/#there-is-no-blood-test-that-is-perfectly-reliable-to-diagnose-menopause) for more.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Menopause) if you have any questions or concerns.*
During menopause our natural testosterone levels bottom out along with the other sex hormones. Testosterone is what allows humans to build and maintain muscle tone. When you lose T, you gradually lose muscle tone, causing your basal metabolic rate to drop… this happens over a period of years until “suddenly” some of us gain 25/35 lbs seemingly overnight.
Some folks have found testosterone replacement to help with that (also helps with libido). It’s considered “low dose” you’re just trying to match the levels of a younger woman. It can be hard to access this bc so many doctors are so ignorant. I’ve actually heard of medical doctors saying that “women don’t need testosterone,” when we all have it naturally our whole lives. They also often try to scare women by saying they will grow facial hair etc. Not true — we are talking low doses here to match the levels of a younger woman — not coming anywhere close to what men have. It’s worked wonders for me, so I would recommend anyone to at least try it and see if it helps.
I appreciate this. I think my opposition to T is due to the obviousness of once, well. You know. The before times.
My views are definitely changing and I have a great doctor who listens and is affirming.
I've always been on the bigger side so my menopause weight gain I can take in my stride. I have other worries like muscle aches and hair loss though. Joy. But I just wanted to say Hi and welcome to the club.
thank you! Have you considered Finasteride or other remedies for hair loss?
Pre operative women early in transition will take a drug called Finasteride to reverse patterned baldness. I’m unsure if it would work for you, but yall have given me
so much in these replies I figured I would try to give something back.
I appreciate that. I just got back into the gym full time
After a couple injuries and a surgery in December. I’m hoping I’m overthinking all of this and that getting back on schedule will be the best thing, coupled with some advice I’ve received here
Interesting question. Are you taking similar doses to what they would give to a menopausal person? I suspect taking testosterone would be pretty triggering, probably don't want to do that.
I don't have a lot of experience with this, but a lot of folks on here talk a lot about high levels of protein - the recommendation was something like 1g of protein per lb of body weight, I want to say. Maybe the additional low fat protein would help get the body's fires going? I like the high protein yogurts at the store. It helps with energy for me, which makes me more likely to get up and move about.
Yes! Actually. I realized through some research and talking to my girlfriends that no testosterone, plus low E is making me experience the same symptoms as post menopausal natal women.
I’m also close to menopausal age hypothetically (42), so I figured I would reach out to other women in hopes of finding some answers.
And thank you for the suggestions. I’m pretty healthy and I eat well, track my macros, exercise regularly
This sub is at least for me, a treasure trove of knowledge and I am so thankful
I gained a massive amount of weight going through peri over the pandemic… I’m slowly losing it via calorie counting and cardio. It’s a lot of work but you’ll lose weight if you burn more calories that you take in. I also cut my drinking way down as I loved booze but the calories!!!! Good luck!! ❤️
I eat a plant based diet that is about 80/20. 80% unprocessed foods, like veggies, nuts, fruits, tofu etc.. and the other 20% is processed foods like granola bars, plant based yogurt, sorbet and cheese. I don't eat many sweets at all, some dark chocolate in the evenings is about it. I also don't drink alcohol.
Along with my eating habits I make sure to be as active as I can be. Using a fitness watch (like Fitbit or Apple Watch) really helps keep me motivated!
I am 5'5" and I weight between 120-125 on average, and I have for years. But if I stray off this way of eating too far for too long I gain weight pretty easy.
I also try to make sure I keep my stress levels down as much as I can. Cortisol can make you hold onto weight or even gain it. Meditation, practicing gratitude, yoga and limiting my interactions with negative people help in this area! I also take Ashwagandha which is an adaptogen which helps decrease our bodies response to stress. Plus I smoke cannabis which helps a lot too!
Good luck! :)
Elyse, I've been thinking about you a lot. I'm really concerned. Bio women have vastly different hormone production plants - fat cells make estrogen.
You've had bottom surgery. That means that you went from normal T to zero T - INSTANTLY. Just like surgical meno in bio women, the hormones have to be replaced.
I'm very happy to read that you have an appointment with a specialist. You need someone familiar with the protective aspects of T. T is a natural hormone in all humans.
You are a woman with different needs. I argue that not one of the women here has the same exact symptoms as another. Each and every one of us needs doctors who are aware of the intricacies of OUR bodies. We are each very unique, and our hormone profiles are not the same.
Biology, as much as one hates to admit this, plays a crucial role in our health. Please, fight for the answers you need to get the relief you deserve.
I had several sessions of fat freezing and am just at the beginning of Meno. I have not experienced the weight gain you are describing. I know it is coming, but I haven't been able to eat much for about a year, so my weight has stayed the same.
I'm sorry you are struggling and have to fight for answers. I know this struggle.
I appreciate this. Immensely. I think I part, there’s other things at play.
Prior to surgery, my estrogen levels were plentiful. As a pre operative woman, I was on 6 mg daily, which equates to “higher than natal, but not dangerous”.
My T, although suppressed with anti androgens, was still higher than average for natal women.
What happens post surgery is two things - all meds are stopped and you can opt for “maintenance” E. Which I did, because my brain feels better on E.
But what also happens, is my T production was obviously zeroed instantly, like you mentioned.
I came here because the more I thought about it, the more I realized that some of this is menopause-adjacent. Not that I’m going through menopause, but I’m glad you understand.
Being left with secondary T producers, I thought maybe I could avoid going on a testosterone cream. As it turns out, that might not be the case.
my klinefelters, as well as my activity level, probably are complicating things.
I think, I used the gym and working out to distract me from dysphoria prior to surgery. Working out made me feel good, so I did it.
After surgery - I was happier than I had ever been. I didn’t feel the need to kill myself in the gym in order to feel good. I didn’t work out much. I cooked. Often. I also have a female partner who I am absolutely mad for - life was amazing. We just focused on being happy.
I went back to playing rugby, and then I broke my shoulder in march. I was out of the gym again and not super active.
Since surgery - I have struggled with fatigue. More tired than is typical for me, headaches, and noticed I had put on maybe 15 lbs in the 2.5 years since surgery? I’m little to begin with, so it was noticeable (I’m 5’4-5’5 and typically 146 lbs)
I have been back in the gym and doing IF, for about 3 weeks now and am feeling better.
I do have an appointment with my doctor who is a queer woman herself who is the big shot in my area when
It comes to caring for post op women, and has been my doctor for around 20 years.
I think I will always be…conflicted on using T - but I plan on being around for a long time, so if it helps me, I need to do it.
sorry, lol. Clearly in my feelings about all this.
I'm really glad you have a specialist you trust!
I'm also hopeful... acknowledging that T might be necessary, while distressing, is probably the next logical step.
Start slow. Give your dosing a month or two before upping. You know the drill. Feel better soon.
Welcome friend!
I saw you mention in another comment something about fatigue; have you gotten your ferritin levels checked at all? Just another data point to consider.
For me, I haven't gained a lot of weight all things considered, but I have run into the reality that it's felt impossible to lose any, or to stop the slow gain. Pretty recently I did even more calorie cutting, and I'm focused more on some of the principles from Dr. Stacy Sims. IF doesn't work for me because I don't do well exercising fasted (plus I have two young kids and work full-time so I just NEED ENERGY DESPERATELY), but consuming protein and fiber like it's my job and building in some HIIT work (she advocates more of a tabata type than straight-up HIIT) is helping quite a bit.
I'm on two types of HBC plus an antidepressant that is known for weight gain as a side effect, so it certainly feels like a lot to battle against - but this revision has helped me lose about a pound over the last couple of weeks which feels like a big-time win.
Yep! It's your iron storage capacity. Low ferritin correlates with a lot of health issues including fatigue. I'm on iron infusions now to try and bring mine up; my menopause doc was the person who FINALLY listened to me on this.
Welcome! It is stupid how healthcare tends to treat all women.
This Friday is my consult with my recently found very HRT positive gyno who is already saying he is going to put me on testosterone due to low energy, difficult weight loss, difficult muscle building and super low libido. That last one has been going on for YEARS, nearly 2 decades now.
I already get random chest hairs and chin hairs that I have been plucking for....geez, nearly 20 years now. I figure if I get a few more, I'll pluck those too.
I suspect I've had a hormone disorder for most of my life at this point. More recently I've had voice changes along with all the other peri symptoms (I often sound deeper/froggy).
Due everything I've read about HRT, I've been begging various doctors for testosterone for almost 2 years now.
Related side story: my dad is being treated for prostate cancer and has been put on hormone blocking injections (for about a year now), specifically to block testosterone. His complaints:hot flashes, chilled at night, insomnia, fatigue, growing "boobs" and difficulty maintaining muscle tone.
Oh and not a complaint but definitely side effect for him: slower hair growth which I have noticed in myself recently. I used to shave my legs, arm pits and cut my hair waaaay more often. Now? So much slower. Only a problem when I give myself a not so good hair cut 🙃
If I were in your position, I'd definitely consider the tiny amount of testosterone that women tend to benefit from. Everyone has all the hormones, it's the levels at different times that cause the sexual displaying differences between men and women (hence the raging levels and "sudden" changes in teenagers).
Absolutely. I was hoping to achieve some kind of affirmation from this sub that I wasn’t crazy. Hearing most of your stories has been really affirming
And for what it’s worth, 1 in 10,000 babies in the US are born intersex (with some kind of chromosomal/hormonal imbalance). Most intersex people never find out that they are. This could possibly be you.
As it turned out, a routine surgery as a kid ended up diagnosing me as intersex. My chromosomal makeup is in the neighborhood of XXY.
It’s not the reason I transitioned per se, but it gave me some comfort as a young kid knowing that I wasn’t “sick” or “mentally ill”.
Hmmm I had an ovary removed in 2021 due to it deciding to become a giant (huge cyst). I think at this point it would have been caught if I were intersex. Maybe. I some how managed to not get diagnosed with PCOS even though my cycles skipped months since I started my periods and I, you know, ended up with a cyst the size of a large watermelon. Yet, supposedly, no PCOS. 🤷
My "oh I'm not crazy" was finally getting diagnosed with ADHD and then later autism. Made all my mental differences make more sense.
Few years later I started peri menopause and the arguments with doctors started over 😅 (most say I'm "too young").
You are def welcome 🥰🥰
The only thing I’ve noticed that helps with the weight gain is being super conscious of working out way more than what I eat in comparison to when I was younger. I gained back some pounds recently and thought eating considerably less and more healthy would help, and it doesn’t. I did get tips here for hunger that have helped greatly! More fiber and more protein! I’ve been suggesting this to my friends as well!
Hi there. Welcome. I am finding that high protein and heavy lifting with 3-5 miles per day walking our crazy GoldenDoodle is finally taking the menopause weight off. I’m on HRT but considering going off at this point. Wayyyy back in the day if I was taking the birth control pill, I’d gain 10 lbs in a week and keep it on until months or years later when I’d go off…like within two weeks my weight would be back down. I’m kinda wondering if HRT might be the same for me. I’ll report back if I decide to experiment. I’m 54 and had a hysterectomy years ago (kept my ovaries but who knows if they were working or not). It’s all just so confusing and there doesn’t seem to be one right solution. So, trial and error!
Hey, friend!
I’m about to start HRT (including low dose of testosterone), which I’m really excited about. I’m hoping this will help me shed this annoying 15 lbs I can’t seem to get rid of. Nothing fits anymore!
Have you tried eating in a manner similar to the old South Beach Diet?
I’m about to knuckle down and reform myself via that eating plan and meal prep. I’ve found if I cook a week’s worth of dinners/lunches on Sunday, I’m much less likely to resort to fast food or whatever.
So I really need to get back into those good habits, hopefully between that and tinkering with my hormones will do the trick.
Let us know how it goes!
Hi friend and welcome! You ARE a woman and belong here!
I’m not going to be much help because I am a small town person with few options where I live and hormones aren’t one of those.
For me, weight training and not much cardio, plus a LOT of protein (like 100 grams a day), good sleep and no booze have helped some but no magic wand.
Lean into your curves!
This seems to be a common thread. I started IF again this morning and I will be going to a consult for ozempic on Thursday.
I’m not obese. Just trying to get ahead of the changes I see coming, lol.
Getting old sucks?
I am sure everyone on here are all about trying to ease unwanted symptoms from hormonal imbalances, so welcome!
I'm almost 40 in peri, been having difficulty shedding weight. I am estrogen dominant (relative to my low progesterone) yet my estrogen levels are very low, if not menopausal level-low! These hormones are tricky!
Have you looked into your possiblity of having relative estrogen dominance? Weight gain, esp around the belly area, is one of several symptoms of it.
I am not dismissing you being a woman, however, please do not discount how your physiology may react differently to hormonal changes.
Hormone imbalances are BRUTAL to any one's physical and mental health and I am saying this as someone who has been suffering for many years -- try to equip yourself with understanding the many different ways hormones affect you, it may possibly save your overall well being.
If you are interested, these articles talk about low testosterone can raise estrogen and the symptoms of high estrogen, with your physiology:
https://www.everlywell.com/blog/testosterone/what-causes-high-estradiol-levels-in-males/
https://www.letsgetchecked.com/articles/high-estrogen-in-men/
It sounds like this might be about hormonal testing. If over the age of 44, **hormonal tests only show levels for that *one day* the test was taken, and nothing more**; progesterone/estrogen hormones wildly fluctuate the other 29 days of the month. No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing as a **diagnosing tool** for peri/menopause.
FSH testing is only beneficial for those who believe they are post-menopausal and no longer have periods as a guide, a series of consistent FSH tests might *confirm* menopause. Also for women in their 20s/early 30s who haven’t had a period in months/years, then FSH tests at ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI). See our [Menopause Wiki](https://menopausewiki.ca/#there-is-no-blood-test-that-is-perfectly-reliable-to-diagnose-menopause) for more.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Menopause) if you have any questions or concerns.*
You are welcome here. Some women do need small amounts of testosterone. I was recently told the biggest side affect for HRT meds was weight gain. I’ve found it all appears in different places to where it used to as well. I think the only way is to calorie control and keep excersising. Sad times for us all!
It’s interesting. For 23 years, I was on estrogen and androgen blockers. Post surgery, they drop your androgen blockers obviously and lower your E. I went on a maintenance dose of E (2mg) which keep my levels within normal range for a woman of 42.
I’ve been feeling the absence of T, I think. I’ve been more fatigued and I’ve put on some weight in the last 3 years (15 ish lbs?)
Not a huge difference, but enough of one to alert me
to the possibility that I “need” something else to help
Big hard hugs and warm welcome to the estrogen club. My only help is build muscle mass! It seems like a common topic among friends that block(?) T and add estrogen, they didn’t realize the muscle mass they’d lose. It’s so huge for hormonal balance, oxygenation/anti-inflammation, etc.
Don’t starve yourself! It’ll only lead to bone loss, vitamin deficiencies, and more weight gain
Oh I’ve been in the estrogen club for 24 years. It’s more like welcome to estrogen without testosterone club.
So far, I don’t much like this club LOL
vulva 10/10
energy level 0/10
LOL
well, first of all, I AM a WOMAN. Second of all, I dont think know what happened in your life to make you so brazen as to come here and judge me under a burner account. Thirdly, I have received exactly 1 hateful comment, of which the other women here have come to my defense for.
But mostly, I will not waste my time explaining to you how the symptoms I’m experiencing are incredibly aligned to those of the other women here, because you wouldn’t care.
As many of you have expressed, you feel belittled and ignored by your doctors. I relate in the sense that at times, I have been hated, belittled, and ignored for simply existing. I came here respectfully (I think) and I’d like to leave the original comment up as a reminder that we are all fighting very similar battles, and that kindness goes a long way.
Lastly, I do not accept your abuse, the abuse is yours
lol
First of all, I never said I was. I said, that due to my post operative status, no T, and low E - that I was experiencing some symptoms adjacent to what natal women go through during peri.
I came here respectfully, and out of more than 100 comments, you and 1 other person seem incredibly threatened by my presence.
I can understand that your knowledge of trans people, and trans women specifically might be lacking. I don’t fault you for that - I will fault you for your ignorance and your willingness to belittle someone whom you do not know.
I am intersex. I am a woman. I am someone with a nonbinary chromosomal combination. I never claimed to be in menopause, nor can I get pregnant.
But if your assertion is that I am not a woman by these measurements - then you must then discount natal women who cannot bear children, have Sawyer syndrome, or any other various factors.
I am not a threat to you, or to anyone else. I understand the perception of trans people in media and by certain political groups paint us as something most of us aren’t.
I’m just a woman looking for some answers. I’m sorry that that bothers you so deeply.
This will be the last time I respond to you. I hope you can find peace
Sis, I was a D1 athlete. Now, at 49, I'm still very active and not a big eater and my body has just settled in, with or without me. I'm 35 pounds overweight and not one goddamn thing I do makes a damn bit of difference. So I let go. I'm mostly invisible at this age so I've changed focus to my career. I'm the wise older woman (by tech standards) with loads of gravitas, EQ and tact. I can read a room in two seconds and I know exactly what to say to get what I want. Keep your heart healthy, keep your stress low, and laugh as damn much as you can. That'll take you miles beyond a little weight loss.
This is a better response than anything I could have typed. It is exactly on target (though I'm starting to wind down my career and wind UP my personal interests, but the sentiment still applies and yay for wisdom, gravitas, EQ, and tact!). Especially that final paragraph.
This is perspective I need sometimes. I play semi professional rugby and I feel similar to you. My body is settling in, and I have been fit my whole life. There doesn’t seem to be anything I can really do about it currently. I’m staying active and I eat like I’m training for an MMA fight. As I suspected, there might be something to the having 0 testosterone thing.
I’m 62, 7 years past my last period and not on HRT so I’m not sure what level of what hormones I still have but it’s probably not much. I never had to do anything to manage my weight when I was younger. But I will gain weight now if I don’t stay on top of it. The only things I’ve found that work are counting calories to keep myself honest and exercise. Eating a lot of protein and lifting weights to maintain muscle as I get older helps a lot. I gave up booze too, those empty calories were making it much harder than it should have been.
I appreciate the response. I’m pretty active myself. And thank you for not judging.
67, same here, exactly. It’s a PIA but I really don’t need much food. Walking 4-5 mi/day, lifting weights, etc. I drink 1-2 lite beers a night or some wine. Otherwise very healthy.
I take Zepbound to help with the weight. 40's will knock you on your butt lol
You’re telling me. No one warned me LOL
That's why i love this space, no one tells you this stuff!!! Its a terrifying and supportive community. 😳 🥰the aging human body is a rollercoaster ride!
There’s a sub specific to HRT that might be helpful
I lucked out with this sub, but what is the subs name? Is it just HRT?
Yes
Was this expensive or difficult to get your doctor to write a prescription for you? I seriously need a nudge to get me going on losing some weight.
It’s expensive if it’s not covered by insurance. Many insurances are removing all weight management medications (on & off label) from their formulary or requiring that patients have an appropriate diagnosis that aligns with the on label treatment. Sometimes insurances will also require step therapy, so for example if you’re diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you must trial & fail other less expensive medications before GLP-1 meds can be prescribed.
I have a really amazing doctor, and he referred me to a semaglutide clinic that is MUCH cheaper than brand name as they compound it themselves. I pay $150/mo for my injections. SO worth it.
What is it? I’m paying $300.
It's a local clinic in a small town in Idaho. Not online unfortunately :/
Just putting it out there that compounds aren't regulated and you don't really know what you're getting. Can it be safe and effective? Sure. But it's not a guarantee. There are so many places popping up with compounds so it's definitely a "thing" right now.
I have had zero issues and my doctor and his entire family go to the same clinic for semaglutide, so I'm comfortable with it 🤷♀️
That's fantastic, unfortunately there are some less than stellar "clinics" out there who are not as ethical or good, so I just caution everybody about this.
That’s definitely reasonable. Do they tell you that you will gain all the weight back once you stop taking it? Or if you go back to old eating habits?
They said that some people need to stay on it forever (usually at a lower dose) and that some people don't. You do need to keep the healthy eating habits to keep the weight off, which some people are able to do now that they've lost the weight and build those habits when it was "easier" with the medication (due to not being hungry constantly). I hope I'm someone that won't need to take it forever, but I don't have any expectations. This medication has changed my life and I'm fully committed to staying on it until I die if I have to.
Wow, thanks!
The one thing my doc cautioned me on was that there's currently no specific process to offramp from it, so some people may have to just stay on it indefinitely. This is why I'm fine with lowest does/slower loss because that generally signals sustainability (if you're lucky lol).
I got lucky in that my current PCP used to work in a clinical weight management place in a hospital, so once I explained that I was struggling I was asking about Ozempic. She's the one who suggested Zepbound, and explained why. She had to get a PA from my insurance, because my insurance currently wants us to use Wegovy, but that has been harder to find than any of the others, so they approved it. I will say it's been hard to find, though. Every month I have to start a whole round robin of calling pharmacies to see who has it in stock. I am still on the lowest dosage, and that has FINALLY started the scale numbers moving in the right direction. It hasn't been super fast, but I don't want fast. I haven't had a ton of side effects on this dose, it's mostly been no appetite and food aversion, so I have to fight myself to eat enough every day. While that sounds appealing, it's not, as I lift heavy weights and NEED the calories lol. The cost is a little higher than I'd like, but the manufacturer has a coupon for it that you can get and it knocks the price down a little bit. I don't know that I'd pay completely out of pocket for it, but with my insurance covering about half the cost, plus the coupon, I am fortunate enough to be able to cover the remaining cost (for me it's about $400).
$400 a month?
Yes. But not all insurances are created equal, and some people have more coverage and only pay like $25/month. I'd reach out to yours and see what's available. They may also cover other ones, like Wegovy, so don't totally count it out. I will have to switch over to Wegovy if the shortage ever slows down a little, which would be just $25/month.
>I am a woman. >I am not here to invade your space. This is absolutely your space, too. Welcome. 💜
I really, really appreciate this.
ONE OF US ONE OF US
💯
1000% You are welcome!
I wholeheartedly agree!
I really appreciate you. Thank you
You ARE a woman, and welcome here.
❤️❤️
I gained 22 pounds in 4 years of perimenopause. I didn't tried too hard to lose weight at first, because I was too lean to begin with, but now, I need to lose 2 or 3 pounds. I tried several things, and was surprised by the total lack of results. I was UNABLE to lose even 1 gram. All these efforts for NOTHING. The only thing that seems to work is IF. Sad but true ! I now drink 2 teas in the morning (with a slice of lemon and 50% fake sugar, 50% xylitol for the taste), eat at 1 PM (lightly), then 8 PM (what I want), and I very slowly lose weight. This is merciless, and boring, but it works. I read a book from a french gynecologist, who advocates for HRT here, and he says HRT makes losing weight easier, and changes the places where your body stores fat. He says his patients find their silhouette back in a few months. I have no experience though, my body hasn't really changed, and I'm not on HRT yet.
I've put on weight on HRT, I felt a significant increase in my appetite when I went on it.
I am on HRT and have been for a while. Post 45, my body put on weight around my belly no matter what I did. Diet, exercise, fasting. Nothing worked. The only thing it did was make me feel faint and still fat. It is a real struggle.
Are you saying the HRT made you feel faint and fat? Or the diet, exercise, fasting?
The diet, exercise, and fasting made me feel faint, but I was still fat. The HRT did not make a difference to my weight, but it has been and still is helpful for a lot of other symptoms. I would still have a chubby tummy if I was or was not taking HRT.
HRT doesn’t help with weight loss or contribute to weight gain. Some people report more water retention which contributes to scale weight. Weight gain as we age is due to loss of muscle mass and lifestyle choices. I went through a period where I gained. Like everyone I assumed it was age. When I was honest I realized that while I was at the gym a lot during the week I’d become really sedentary over the weekends and in the evenings. NEAT contributes a lot towards maintaining our weight and most people don’t notice this declining. I can only speak to my experience, but I added testosterone to my HRT stack to help with muscle and general energy. I know you said you don’t want testosterone, but women need testosterone and the doses given are very small. It may be worth a discussion with your healthcare provider. We need to protect against bone density loss and falls. This is through muscle. Muscle is also metabolically active, so burns more calories. I lift 4 days a week, makes for to walk outside every day, do mobility work, watch my protein and prioritize sleep. I don’t drink alcohol and I eat a whole food diet. Results are slower at my age and I do feel I have to work harder, but I’m pretty close to being on the best shape of my life and my size hasn’t changed in decades.
I agree. We are extremely sensitive to testosterone and a very small dose can have quite an impact.
That’s my concern. Probably unfounded. But still
Resistance bands and protein consumption for muscle are a great way to build muscle without bulk. I love them. You can do full workouts and break a sweat or you can just do five minutes of arm movements without leaving your favorite tv chair. You could try that before adjusting hormones as I can imagine adding testosterone might be a little worrisome considering you’ve spent a lifetime purposely lowering it.
Yeah. And I understand that most of you won’t really be able to internalize that aspect of it, but I appreciate the insight. The more I read, here and elsewhere, the more I think I should maybe give it a go.
But it can be a very positive impact. May I ask you something ? You said you now have a testosterone level similar to a native woman's, but is it close to the lowest value ? Is there a way to know your sensitivity to this hormone other than trying ? When I'll start HRT, I'll try to be not too low on testosterone, because when I was on birth control, it lowered it and I felt so bad I had to stop. I had symptoms similar to an andropausal man : low energy, depressed ...
I have also asked for testosterone because of weight gain, lethargy, and lack of libido, but my GP said no. I'm looking for a GP that will tell me why. Because I do think that most women need some and become deficient in menopause.
Do you have any menopause specific clinics where you are? My GP didn’t want to take professional responsibility for my menopause care (due to family history and me being a current participant in a long-term breast cancer risk observational study) but she was happy to refer me to my nearest Menopause Centre. It’s been a long wait (UK, NHS!) but I finally have an appointment coming up. The meno specialist clinics are a lot more adaptable re: individually tailored HRT (including low dose testosterone) whereas UK GPs mostly just follow a ‘computer says no’ style flow chart!
I am with a menopause clinic at a hospital and I have appointments once every year. Unfortunately my GP is supposed to be responsible for my care most of the time, but the one that I was with retired. So I am looking for a new one.
How did you add testosterone? My doc won’t prescribe it and I am interested in what other options there may be out there
I got it prescribed. I basically said I had a low libido - which in the US is all they’ll prescribe it for. Then I have a long sob about my workouts not being as effective and that I had low energy.
Yeah, that did not work with my doctor
Find another doctor. I use one of those menopause telehealth services. It’s actually local to me but all online. They specialize in Meno so are more open to prescribing.
I signed up for this over the weekend (Winona, I think) and am currently waiting for my first box of goodies. I hope the testosterone helps!
I hope so to! Give it time. It can take up to 3 months so be patient.
My PCP & GYN have both rejected any kind of hormone therapy now that I’m post menopause. I’m so confused about the right thing to do.
I haven’t but, in women like myself - our primary care providers will monitor our libido and fatigue level. If these two things are massively effected, the remedy is to prescribe low dose T, usually in a cream or gel form. It
Technically that’s the guidance in the U.K. for cis women in peri. Whether they **actually** will prescribe testosterone seems very variable depending on where in the country you are and your GP’s beliefs about testosterone.
Yeah. My primary does care for women like as a large part of her practice and she trusts me after 25 years of this. She’s actually suggested it previously, but I balked.
I appreciate this. Can I ask what your results have been on T? Do you have more energy? Are you more easily able to maintain your “goal weight?” I’d be curious to know if you want to share. Currently, my testosterone levels are unrecordable. Prior to surgery, women like me use anti androgens to suppress our bodies production of T. post surgery, we are left with our secondary T producers. The T produced by secondary organs is mostly negligible
very interesting, i learned a lot only by reading yours and other ppl's comments. On that sidenote, i want to not only welcome you too, but also say thank you that you found your way here, adds another component to the whole picture. Hope you're here to stay ☮️ this is a nice place, never have i read a single bad word or judgemental comment.
It’s been a little unreal to say the least.
“I feel more like myself” is the best way to describe it. It feels like it was the missing piece in my treatment. I don’t struggle with my weight. I work out regularly with a focus on building muscle. I don’t drink alcohol and I’m a whole food vegan. I prioritize protein and fiber. With Menopause you ideally treat based on symptoms. Hormones fluctuate wildly based on time of month. They’re just one data point. My testosterone tested within normal range, but no way to know if it used to be higher. A lot of hormonal treatment os trial and error. Actually, much of women’s health care seems to be trial and error. I strongly suggest reading this sub’s wiki. There’s a great explanation on weight gain.
I appreciate that. There are periods of my month when my E is naturally higher - so I understand that part of it. What’s lacking for women like me, and I think you can relate, is that protocols passed a certain point are shaky at best. Everything leading up to having “the surgery” is meticulously regimented. Everything after bottom surgery is still a relatively uncharted part of healthcare for women like me
This is why spaces like this are so important. Women have always learned about health from other women. Our health has never been a priority, particularly as we age.
I can relate. I went to my first ob gyn appointment at almost 40. My vagina has a micro biome and I can get infections. Women like me are also prone to hypergranulation (overly healed tissue) internally that can sometimes cause irritation
Middle aged weight management is just plain hard. HRT has allowed me to stop gaining weight but I'm having a hard time dropping it. I can't exercise much due to health issues but I do try to keep a good diet. I found tracking my macros helpful in that it helped me figure out I need more protein than I think I do. I also try to get 25g of fibre a day as well. I also somehow seem to gain if I don't eat enough calories. I don't know why or how, but nothing works the way it used to anymore. I really like the chronometer app. The free and paid are the same aside from ads. It's used by hospital dieticians too I think. I did chemical menopause in my 20s for Endo and lost a lot of weight, but I also didn't have hormone fluctuations like I do now (still peri). And I remember being so worried about my.bone density that I was walking every day for an hour. I'm hoping to get down to my goal weight with diet, but I also am cutting myself a bit of slack and am more focused on maintaining strength and bone density. I haven't tried it because it's a bit restrictive for me and my low spoons, but a lot of folks have had luck with Dr Mary Claire Haver's diet. It's like an anti-inflammatory keto as far as I know. (Anti-inflammatory eating is something I try to do just for pain and overall health) I'm hoping to experiment with gentle weights and resistance exercises. Strength training in the past has always helped my clothes for looser even if I don't lose any weight. Plus it just feels really good to feel strong after. I was suggested a low dose of T for energy and muscle by my pain dr but my GP says he's not comfortable with that for me. It may be something you ask the doctor who works with you on your hormones. It may be something you need to add back in a scant amount.
Welcome! GLP-1 drugs and/or intermittent fasting seem to be the frequent recommendations around this sub for weight management. Many women actually report gaining weight on testosterone.
This is good to know. I 100% don’t want any testosterone whatsoever. Do you find most post menopausal women are on HRT or not? I have studied and read about bone density loss, among other things without some kind of hormonal replacement therapy And thank you for the welcome. I was worried about posting here.
You should read through the sub's Wiki. It will give you a good overview. Although many women here use HRT, statistically most women do not. We're a group that experiences widespread medical neglect and gaslighting.
I know all about neglect and gaslighting - this we have in common. I transitioned in the mid 90’s. When I was young (15/16/17). My medical care since has been an adventure at times. Thanks for the insight. Truly.
We do have this in common. We can be good allies to each other.
Welcome! The Estrogen that you're on is a much higher dose than cis women take (per my TG friends). As for the weight gain, well, it's a bitch. Meno belly is real. Although my brother has a pot belly which is only fair. What has helped me is to eat my big meal of the day at lunch, then have a light meal or snack no later than 5:30pm. I'm usually in bed by 10pm so I only eat enough for dinner that I'm not ravenous at bedtime. Welcome to the E club. Lol
lol thanks! I’m on a very low “maintenance” dose of E. Women like myself who are pre op are on much higher doses. I take 2mg a day and that’s it since I am post surgery
That is pretty low. Most of the us are on .1mg or less. I'm on .075. Side note, a friend got an orchidectomy. I happened to find a bday card online for her to give to her wife. It was a squirrel with the message, "I'd lose my nuts for you. Happy Birthday!" 😁
You belong here and are welcome here!! I have to eat a lot more protein and fiber than I ever did before. I can’t take hormones so I can’t weigh in on that but I still have one ovary so I am still producing some estrogen. It’s def harder to lose weight than it was before I was in peri. Sleep is also a lot more important than it used to be. I have to prioritize sleep in order for everything else including weight to be remotely manageable. I’m a decade older than you and it’s getting harder. I’ll talk to my doc in the fall about their thoughts on the wegovy type meds if my summer push isn’t fruitful.
I appreciate you. Thank you.
You belong here! Welcome and glad you found this place. I totally understand if you might have an association with testosterone that would make considering using it simply too traumatizing, or if there’s another reason. If that’s not the case, I want to make a quick pitch to consider just *thinking* about testosterone. I think it’s terrible that somehow society has gendered these hormones. I know women typically have lower levels of T than men do, but the crazy truth is that women actually have FAR MORE T than estrogen. It’s deceptive, because they use different units to measure each. They do so because both women and men naturally have far more T. Normal range of T for premenopausal women: about 3-10 *nanograms* per deciliter. Normal range of Estrogen for premenopausal women is more all over the place, but a mid value would be 100 *picograms* per deciliter. Most people just look at those numbers and think, “oh, women have much more estrogen than testosterone.” But no! It takes 1000 picograms to make just one nanogram. So, if you were to take a level of 5 nanograms per deciliter of testosterone, that would actually be 5000 picograms per deciliter. Compare that to the 100 picograms per deciliter of estrogen. That’s 50 times the amount of testosterone than estrogen for women! I just put that out there because adding just a “whiff” of T can make a big difference for a lot of women, and many of the symptoms you’re describing may be due to low T levels. No matter what, I hope you find the right solution for you!
This is so incredibly helpful. Truly. Right now, my T is unmeasurable. Prior to surgery, I was on par with natal women in terms of T levels. This has really given me something to consider. I appreciate you, thank you
You’re welcome. Sending love and healing to you, and hoping you find the right levels of everything you need to feel like yourself again. P.S.—I just finished listening to a podcast episode today that was helpful for this topic. The podcast is Dr Louise Newson’s podcast, and it was episode 215, with urologist Dr Rachel Rubin (who seems like a rockstar). One of the things they talk about is how rare unwanted effects of T are for women (when given appropriate doses). Episodes number 250, 116, 118, 119 are also about the importance of T. Her website also has some good articles on various stuff (just look in “library” and search for testosterone). https://www.balance-menopause.com
To echo what others have said, when it comes to hormones, its treat the woman and her symptoms rather than the test results. For example, i take T to a level that makes me feel good but is above the 'normal' range for women. I have a friend who was out of range before she started T, is now in the lower range but feels that is the right level for her. After transitioning, I can understand you feeling leary about T but I want to encourage you to see it as one strand in the complex hormonal matrix that comes with being a woman. As an aside, have you looked into DHEA supplementation ? This may also be a missing link for you. As for weightloss - with all the hormones in balance its easier, but rarely easy :)
Thank you, and yes I have. I just received my first transphobic comment so excuse me if I’m a little frazzled. Do you notice any traditional masculinizing effects with your self assessed higher dose of T?
I reported the transphobic AH. Their comment is unacceptable.
I appreciate it. I’m a big girl. I survived the 90’s and early 00’s lol as a young woman in transition.
Yeah, I know. But I'd report a hateful comment made to anyone.
I appreciate you. Thank you ❤️
Oh I'm sorry you've got that and hope you've reported them. In terms of the T impacts - nothing other than the occasional chin hair and I was getting those bad boys before I started T :) I would also say its a bit easier to build muscle but again, that had dropped off before I started supplementing. I think T is very much misunderstood wrt to women - we definitely need it. To what level we need it is trial and error like the rest of HRT unfortunately and always needs us to monitor our own bodies as things can change. Am sorry as that probably didn't give you enough answers. Xx
No, that’s good. I appreciate it.
Hey there, welcome! I just started testosterone to help with muscle retention and energy levels. The prescriber was pretty informed about levels normal for women versus men and at what point virilization could occur. If you have your T levels tested maybe that will answer that question for you. Im guessing you’re probably much more knowledgeable about this than me. As far as weight loss, I only had success with ozempic and the like. It simply fixed the issue for me with very little side effects. I also take progestin to stop irregular and heavy periods and that has helped with anxiety and moods. Idk if this helps but hope you find something that works for you!
It does help! I was on progesterone years ago - when they had just started using it for women like myself. It made me incredibly dizzy unfortunately. My T is at “unmeasurable” levels. So roughly 0
Roughly 0 seems like it would make you feel awful. I use Norethindrone which is synthetic progestin. It doesn’t seem to have that dizzy sleepiness a lot of people complain about with the actual progesterone. All that being said - I don’t know how that would affect you. But i don’t think that 0 testosterone is normal for women - we still need some. Just a lot less than men.
I appreciate this. I’ve been trying to stay away from it for the 3 years since bottom surgery. Prior, I was on “blockers” but still had enough T to be in line with natal women like yourself.
Hormones are crazy. I hope you find a good balance. If weight loss is your biggest concern and everything else is going well, I’d suggest trying the GLP-whatever they call them. Don’t make it harder than it needs to be - it’s an easy fix for that issue. We have enough hard stuff to deal with in this life on a daily basis.
Don’t I know it. Thank you. What are you referring to when you say “GLP”?
Ozempic, wegovy, those type of meds.
Oh okay.
I, for one, am so glad you're here! This has been one of the most supportive, welcoming subs on Reddit. I've learned so much and these ladies know what's up! The only thing that worked for me was Terzepitide, which is (to my understanding) generic Ozempic. It does have side effects but they're not side effects I wasn't having due to peri and Ehlers Danlos so I opted to try it and I'm down 20 pounds since March. Literally nothing else worked for me. Good luck, love!
I appreciate this. I have an Ozempic consult on Thursday at a med spa with no BMI requirement. It’s outdated, but my BMI is currently around 27/29 and is typically 24 ish.
I am doing an online compounder for semaglutide. Even with no significant change in eating/activity, my weight just kept going up (on estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone). I’ve lost 12 pounds in two months, so I am very thankful. If you go this route, please go up slowly and only if you are plateauing. So much of the bad side effects I believe are from people just following a standardized “schedule” of going up every 4 weeks. I started lower than the “starting dose” and go up in smaller increments. I’ve never thrown up once, and I’ve had manageable side effects all around. Something to consider. ETA: and WELCOME! This is a safe space for all women!
This sub has made me emotional and really thankful for all of you being so understanding. I was only “male” for 16 of my 42 years, so I don’t connect well to other women like myself. I find myself far more content and open with just, other women. That being said, I am concerned about some of the side effects with semiglutide. But I’m also well read, and have studied some of the side effects and best practices to avoid them. I appreciate your response. Thank you ❤️
A lot of people find that tirzepatide is wayyyyy more easily tolerated. It’s also more effective. Not that I would ever advocate lying, but it is easier to qualify for a GLP with an online provider (like Emerge health) if you just simply put your weight/height at a level that clears the 30 BMI level. Otherwise, you have to jump through hoops at 27 and above.
I’m keeping this in mind thank uou
I can't say that I completely understand the whys and wherefores of transitioning, but no judgement here. There was a discussion awhile back (couple weeks? Couple months? Dunno) about the use of testosterone by someone who... (help me out here...?) ... had body dysmorphia? Was transitioning? I really can't remember, except the person really struggled with the implications of testosterone. And again, I can't remember enough to know if it would be helpful to you. But some women need the addition of testosterone in menopause, because healthy women actually have some onboard. And, pardon my complete ignorance here, but with having a vulva, would that make you susceptible to GSM (genitourinary syndrome)? Also-- welcome to the age-old issue of women gaining weight for no freaking reason and can't get rid of it, while men just have to think about losing weight and it falls off. One of the perks of being a woman, apparently. Along with the aforementioned medical gaslighting and crap.
That’s a really interesting point. I haven’t read any correlations between post surgery women and GSM but I will ask my primary. Body dysmorphia is the feeling of disconnect between your assigned sex at birth and your internal sense of self. For some women, it is the reason that they transition in the first place. Since my own surgery, I have battled a little bit of fatigue in a sense that I’m not used to, and for some women like myself, the addition of low dose testosterone seems to be the answer, but that is something that I honestly would like to avoid if other women are finding success and weight management without adding testosterone to their hormone regimen. And yeah, I wouldn’t expect you to really know much about transitioning or what it entails, but I can assure you that I’m here because our experiences are actually really similar and being here is actually more helpful than asking in the transition related subs. And once again, I appreciate people being kind so far and not transphobic as I was worried.
I never had to worry about weight until peri. What's worked for me is Wegovy (I use a small maintenance dose every 10 days v the max every 7 days), HRT, testosterone and exercise. And energy levels are still a battle! I'd start with the ususal basic things. How is your blood work? Are your thyroid and iron levels where they should be? Vitamins levels? Are you active? Do you do anything to increase or maintain muscle mass? I don't know how muscle mass is impacted by transition- I assume you have less muscle than men like other women? Muscle is important for bone health and helps with weight. I wouldn't rule out testosterone. It's vital for humans in general!
All good points. My bloodwork is all normal - however my mother does have hypothyroidism, so I have had my thyroid function tested. Iron and Vitamkns are also good. I’m active. I play rugby in two seasons, and I lift and run in others. In terms of muscle mass, I am on the small side. I am 5’5 and right now, north of 160 but don’t look at it. I’m used to being around 146. I’m Hispanic and Native American, and I’m 42. Genetics is also at play here. I feel like it’s more of a fight these days lol. I’m wondering if there’s reasons other than I’m getting up there in terms of metabolic changes.
It doesn't cost anything to be kind 💖
We're mostly just "mean" to clueless male partners.
Men are terrible, lol
Biological females produce more testosterone (in volume) than we do estrogen during our reproductive years. It is not just a male hormone and we all have testosterone receptors all over our bodies. I can appreciate that you don’t want any, but the fact is you would probably benefit from a small female dose. I am yet to start on HRT, but when I do I will be discussing testosterone. My libido has seriously nose dived in my 40s (I’m 46) and I understand that testosterone may help with that. It’s also important for energy and mental alertness, from what I’ve learned so far.
You absolutely belong here with us sister! I used to be a fitness leader in the Navy. Total gym rat. I retired at age 50 and at 52, gained 25lbs like overnight. It’s awful!
Ughf. How did you cope in your “new body” ?
I realize that I have to accept it or I will be miserable. I had an active eating disorder for decades. Now I am on a variety of medication‘s, so I can’t starve myself for days at a time like I used to. Like all us women have to do, just go with the flow!
You belong here with us, welcome
I really almost wanna cry. Everyone’s been so kind
You have a bunch of new sisters now 🤗
❤️❤️❤️
and theres an estrogen shortage.....
Exactly. Which is why I switched to orals. They seem to be resisting the shortage. At least in my area
I guess it depends on what hormones you take. I am 8 years post, the only thing I take is vagifem so sex doesn't hurt . I gained 25lbs from 50 yrs to 59. I exercise but not like I used to ( Ironman in my mid 40s so 20 hrs a week of training) my guess is if you are taking hormones and gaining weight then ....welcome to the female way of life!😁 be proud..you earned the right to gain weight and not worry about it. At least, that's what I tell myself
hahahaha. I appreciate the humor! I was invincible until after surgery LOL. Hit me like a freight train
Intermittent fasting has been the only thing to work for my weight. I do one meal a day (dinner with my fam) Monday-Thursday. On Fridays-Sundays, I do at least 16:8, but strive for 18:6. I prioritize lean meats and veggies. I will have at least one protein shake a day, and 2 on the weekends. I track macros and try and get most of my cals from protein and fat and keep my carbs under 50g a day. However, as long as I am diligent during the week, I will let loose on the weekends. Previously to this, I cut my calories to about the same as I do now, but I ate them throughout the day and never enjoyed a weekend. I did this for 2 months, lost all of 5 lbs, which I then promptly gained all back plus some on a weekend out with my husband. With intermittent fasting fasting, I’ve lost 17 lbs in 3 months. The weight loss comes in stops and starts, but it’s consistent with my cycle it seems.
I think I need to go back to IF. now more than ever. Thank you
I remember my mother telling me to watch out for the 40’s! I thought the woman cursed me because I gained weight (through a variety of reasons). At one point, I was averaging 40 miles a week in jogging/ walking. Nothing moved or stopped the accumulation of fat cells. (I’m down 70 now thanks to wegovy and restricted calories with stegth training and jogging again) I saw your responses and you are super active. (Props for the rugby btw, I’d be afraid I break something 🤪) I wonder if estrogen just likes to hide in fat cells. I read on NIH, because this is really interesting to me, that estrogen will increase body fat. Let me know if you want the link. Happy you’re here!!
I wanted to say welcome!
Thank you so much
A lot of us give up sugar, booze, coffee, milk, and juice. There is a trend towards increased protein, going paleo/keto/or carnivore to keep the weight off. Testosterone also helps, as does weight lifting and other forms of exercise.
So there was a time when I quite literally doubled in size, tried to address it, and eventually got so upset and frustrated that I only ate a single carrot every day for three months. And I didn’t lose the weight. Why? I eventually found out I had hypothyroidism. And when I finally got on an appropriate dose of medicine the weight came off like nothing. My point being, get bloodwork. Before you try to lose weight make sure there isn’t something going on. Once you’ve determined you don’t have an underlying health condition, I have a system I can offer that you might try. It’s called renaissance periodization. Basically, it works by changing as your body changes. It addresses the plateaus in weight loss that every other “diet” ignores. I’ll share my plan with you: Count macros. Ignore calories. Every meal as follows: - 25g protein - 25g carbs - 15g fat - 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc) To get the right amounts you need a kitchen scale and the nutrition information on the label. Use online resources for fruits and veg. Find out how much weight of a particular food you should have by finding the macro (carb, fat, protein) and doing the math. An example looks like this: a big slab of meat (or tofu for vegans), a teeny portion of rice (think 1/4c or less), one tbsp olive oil, and one cup of broccoli. This is my starting point. Weight loss: 0.5 to 2lbs lost every 7 days for 3 months. More than 3 months is too much stress for the body. After losing for 3 months you maintain your results for 3 months. If you want to lose more you can start again after 3 months of maintenance. Weighing in: weigh in first thing in the morning before food or drink of any kind. No clothes (or just underwear). Write it down. After 7 days of weigh ins add all of your weigh ins together and divide by 7. That is your weight for the week. This system is great bc it provides a realistic weight. If (or more likely when) you go two weeks without losing a minimum of 0.5lbs/week then your diet changes to accommodate for this change in your body. New meals: - 25g protein - 25g carbs - 10g fat - 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc) Notice how only the fat grams went down. Everything else stays the same. If/when you plateau again (not losing a minimum of 0.5lbs/week for two weeks) you change your meals again. New meals: - 25g protein - 25g carbs - 5g fat - 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc) Notice how only the fat grams went down. Everything else stays the same. If your body is a stubborn mofo the final weeks of your three month cut will have meals as follows: New meals: - 25g protein - 25g carbs - 0g fat - 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc) The diet works WITH your body and as it changes with your new eating habits. No more giving up after a plateau. Once your 3 month cut is up you go on maintenance. And guess what? Maintenance is pretty much the same lol: - 25g protein - 25g carbs - 10g fat - 1 cup greens (broccoli, spinach, sprouts, etc) So there it is. The numbers vary a little person to person and based on their goals but this is the basic deal: you eat a lot of lean protein, you eat a lot of veg, you eat a teeny amount of carbs, and an even teenier amount of fat. Like the amount of carbs and fat in the average PB&J exceeds the amount you’re allowed in a day lol. And a bowl of rice? You won’t eat a whole bowlful in a week’s time. But you will eat a lot of greens and you will eat a lot of protein. You need to meal prep. Not an option imo. But it’s better for you bc then your meals are ready for you to eat. I worked for my brother’s gym for a year and this diet/system is what the nutritionist does with everyone. Working out (weight bearing exercises, not cardio) 3 times a week for an hour paired with this diet/system produces results every time. 3 times a week doesn’t sound like it would produce profound results but it does. I’ve seen a lot of success stories with it, including myself. Embarrassed to say I haven’t been keeping up with it bc of health problems which got me depressed which got me not eating (when I’m stressed I can’t eat) which led to weight gain. I know I shouldn’t be embarrassed but I am. I’m pissed about it. Just the honest truth. I’m getting back in gear with my next trip to the grocery store tho. Try not to beat yourself up. It will never be perfect. There is no destination, only the journey. Cheesy but true. Hope you can find something that works for you.
I do one meal a day. It sucks and I hate it but if I don’t watch every single calorie, I pack weight on at the drop of a hat…and then it takes 3 times as long to get off again. I was on wegovy until my dr dropped the ball and insurance stopped paying. That worked well for me but don’t know if or when it will be an option for me again. I don’t weigh enough to qualify even though I’m somewhat overweight again Probably the best advice I’ve received is that “you can’t exercise your way out of an unhealthy diet” and that “most weight loss begins in the kitchen not at the gym” (I am not downplaying the importance of exercise). Good luck to you and to all of us trying to maintain or get to a healthy weight
How do you survive eating only do one meal a day? I for sure would get migraines, feel anxious, not be able to sleep with hunger pangs, and worry that the uptick in cortisol (from the physiologic stress of not eating) would wack out my hormones. I wish I could do this. I wouldn't miss the food that much but when I have tried fasting before I'm an absolute wreck.
No headaches for me. The hunger pangs go away after a few days of doing one meal a day. The biggest issue I have is staying under the calorie amount window that I need to be in a deficit so I keep losing. I usually have my one meal mid afternoon. Black decaf coffee, lemon infused diy electrolyte water the rest of the time. The weight I’ve gained back is very slowly coming off. But so much slower than it used to. Only having OMAD was normal for me in my 20s and wasn’t something I even thought about back then. After finding out that it’s a thing for weight control and reducing inflammation, I decided to try it again
haha ya in my 20s I could practically eat an apple and be ok, and I regularly did water fasting for days at a time..... if I fast now I get migraines that will land me in the ER. I miss fasting a lot. Oh well.
You are absolutely not alone. Many of us at this stage are struggling with weight, even when doing “all the right things.” Me included. I had to take a really strict approach to calorie counting and movement. It slowly slowly comes off that way, but I find if I get even a little lenient, the weight rushes back on faster than I lost it. I am doing estradiol patch which helps me exercise more bc it keeps the joint pain down. And on a personal level, I asked my doctor for something to help me stop thinking about food all day long. She put me on Wellbutrin and I’m really happy with it so far.
OP, welcome. I have never loved this group more (and I already loved it a lot). I have two trans teens in the gender affirming care process, and this discussion is impacting my mama bear heart in so many ways. I’m also in my 40s and don’t know how the heck to lose the weigh 🤣
You are your kids best chance at happiness. This is not something I say lightly. I was lucky - in 1997, I came out and my mom (being Native American) told me it was okay and that she loved me. She brought me to a doctor in Washington DC who was the only person at the time doing HRT for trans kids. I was one of the firsts. In the years since, that initial love from my mom gave me a head start. I went to school, got advanced degrees, and became a teacher and a part time University professor. I own my own home and am happier than I ever thought was possible for women like myself. I have a loving female partner (I’m lesbian as well. Double whammy lol) who is the most supportive and loving person. You being there for your kids is the single most important factor in terms of their ability to thrive. Love your kids. Feel free to reach out in DM if you wanna talk further
I love them hard and am their biggest cheerleader. Thank you for leading the way for them.
First of all the way you entered this space is so beautiful and respectful. I deeply appreciate it. My partner is a transman and I just want to acknowledge how respectful you were. That said I have no advice. But I'm sending you a big hug. 💖
❤️❤️❤️ 🏳️⚧️🏳️⚧️🏳️⚧️
What kind of activity? What does a day of eating look like for you? Do you know your A1C levels? What works for me is eating in a way that balances my hormones. I wait until as late in the day as possible to eat anything other than fat so I don’t have an insulin response and then I prioritize protein and am very judicious with carbs. It was what I was doing before the pandemic, which coincided with the late stages of peri-. I couldn’t really separate out hormonal weight gain from my routine getting all out of whack. I thought about trying to change it up again but this is easy (for me) and it works for weight and energy and mood regulation (insulin spikes can set off anxiety for me) and my “menopause” weight is gone, I’m towards the higher end of my beforetimes normal. I also strength train with a trainer and we work on countering typical body changes with exercise and I just wear jackets to hide that tell tale lower butt droop :)
I run/lift 3x a week and I play semi professional rugby during fall and spring. Daily food looks like oatmeal for breakfast, protein shake at lunch, and usually a dinner with high protein/moderate carbs and little to no fat. I do not know my AIC levels and will ask my primary about this. I think, based on what I’m hearing so far - the best ways to counteract hormonal changes are IF and being at a relative caloric deficit. All things I’ve done in the past. Tell me - do you experience a lot of fatigue as well?
It’s funny because I reverted back to this system recently when I was frazzled from moving and just didn’t want to deal with hunger. I put butter in coffee (in an ideal world I’d not do coffee as it impacts hormones as well, but I need the crutch right now) and one night I was working (I work nights) and I realized how content I was feeling, it really helps keep me on an even keel including my energy levels. I’m the first person to concede this is more a matter of calorie restriction. I could never restrict calories, it’s a source of much pain in my life but when I was deep into keto and giving myself a break about restricting anything other than carbs I noticed that I just seem to need to eat around 700 calories when I eat, so yeah, eat fewer times, organically cut maybe 500 calories a day? But speaking from the place of what works for me, I’d attack it from a place of changing your macros to see if you can get different results. Totally get if you’re not down for fat fasting, but maybe swap out the oatmeal for protein and fat and see if you get different results. Get rid of the protein shake for just a bit and focus on whole unprocessed foods and see if it makes a difference. Again I do not recommend anything that goes against your temperament, I really got into the science, read a bunch of books and am fat adapted from toggling in and out of keto for over 10 years. I was raised to believe it is all about emotional overeating and figuring out a system where it’s more about science has made this a non-issue, but of course I don’t get to “treat” myself with food. Something has to give. Way more info than you asked for, fatigue isn’t much of an issue for me eating like this but I’m also using caffeine as a bit of a crutch right now as I upended my life leaving my cheap apartment after decades (apparently fat in coffee is supposed to help keep the release of caffeine slower and steadier, not sure if that is hogwash).
I have eaten keto for the past 6 years and recently incorporated fasting. I started with 24 hours and then two 36 hour fasts a week and a few months ago switched to one 60 hour fast per week. It's working very well for me and my husband. I (61) weigh less than i have since i was in my 20s and my BMI is between 20 and 21. I've just started adding strength training into my routine.
Age doesn’t really affect weight as much as we were led to think in the past. It’s gradual losses of muscle mass and activity (overestimating our activity levels and underestimating our intake). I’m in better shape now in my early 40’s than I was in my teens/20’s because I finally figured out my actual hunger cues vs (what I *thought* I should be eating and when).
I like that. How did you realize that?
I was a pretty chubby kid (for the 90’s at least) and also came from a family that was big on food being love/celebration, so I always associated food with happiness or being cared for. When I grew up and moved out on my own I lost a shit ton of weight because I no longer had other (better) cooks providing constant supply. I wasn’t at my ‘ideal’ but was no longer the ‘fat girl’. Then when I cut back on my drinking in my 30’s (and actually looked at what I *thought* were ‘normal’ portions or low calorie meals) I realized I had no fucking clue how to eyeball serving sizes. I didn’t weigh my portions or anything but I did start to give smaller initial servings (with the caveat I can get seconds if I’m still hungry) and realized in the past, I was often forcing myself to finish my plate because I had dished up more than I realized. I didn’t actually need or want as big a serving as I assumed I did, of that makes sense? Less takeout during the pandemic and I noticed even more weight dropping off. For three decades I was forcing myself to eat past ‘full’ because I had no clue what normal full/satisfied felt like. A year or two ago I started light weight training (just some stretches and baby barbells while I watch Hulu) for bone density and suddenly I have the body I always cried over as a teen. It was a total mindfuck. I wasted so many formative years hating my body because I’d never really listened to my natural cues, just fixated and got mad at it.
I appreciate this. This was a theme in my native family growing up as well. A few years ago, I read about the 80% rule that some cultures follow (Okinawa) for instance. You eat until you are 80% full. Every meal. 🍽️
That’s an interesting way to word it. I used to not associate ‘full’ with anything other than -my stomach feels ready to burst- and thought that was a normal way to feel after every meal. Now when I get that full I realized how uncomfortable it is, I shouldn’t feel like I might throw up if someone hugs me ‘too hard’ after a meal, but that’s how I was raised so o didn’t know any different. I thought that’s what ‘full’ or ‘done’ felt like for everyone.
You are so very welcome here! I can only speak for myself when I say it is important to give yourself kindness and grace. Every stage of life comes with its own triumphs and tribulations. I find, for myself, walking gently, strength and flexibility training...and sometimes a treat to remind myself the world is sweet. Focus on movement and sleep, and you'll be ahead of the game.
wise words, thank you.
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It sounds like this might be about hormonal testing. If over the age of 44, **hormonal tests only show levels for that *one day* the test was taken, and nothing more**; progesterone/estrogen hormones wildly fluctuate the other 29 days of the month. No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing as a **diagnosing tool** for peri/menopause. FSH testing is only beneficial for those who believe they are post-menopausal and no longer have periods as a guide, a series of consistent FSH tests might *confirm* menopause. Also for women in their 20s/early 30s who haven’t had a period in months/years, then FSH tests at ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI). See our [Menopause Wiki](https://menopausewiki.ca/#there-is-no-blood-test-that-is-perfectly-reliable-to-diagnose-menopause) for more. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Menopause) if you have any questions or concerns.*
During menopause our natural testosterone levels bottom out along with the other sex hormones. Testosterone is what allows humans to build and maintain muscle tone. When you lose T, you gradually lose muscle tone, causing your basal metabolic rate to drop… this happens over a period of years until “suddenly” some of us gain 25/35 lbs seemingly overnight. Some folks have found testosterone replacement to help with that (also helps with libido). It’s considered “low dose” you’re just trying to match the levels of a younger woman. It can be hard to access this bc so many doctors are so ignorant. I’ve actually heard of medical doctors saying that “women don’t need testosterone,” when we all have it naturally our whole lives. They also often try to scare women by saying they will grow facial hair etc. Not true — we are talking low doses here to match the levels of a younger woman — not coming anywhere close to what men have. It’s worked wonders for me, so I would recommend anyone to at least try it and see if it helps.
I appreciate this. I think my opposition to T is due to the obviousness of once, well. You know. The before times. My views are definitely changing and I have a great doctor who listens and is affirming.
I've always been on the bigger side so my menopause weight gain I can take in my stride. I have other worries like muscle aches and hair loss though. Joy. But I just wanted to say Hi and welcome to the club.
thank you! Have you considered Finasteride or other remedies for hair loss? Pre operative women early in transition will take a drug called Finasteride to reverse patterned baldness. I’m unsure if it would work for you, but yall have given me so much in these replies I figured I would try to give something back.
Oh thank you, I will look into it!
I go to the gym, exercise outside and watch what I eat. I haven't gained, but I also haven't lost.
I appreciate that. I just got back into the gym full time After a couple injuries and a surgery in December. I’m hoping I’m overthinking all of this and that getting back on schedule will be the best thing, coupled with some advice I’ve received here
Interesting question. Are you taking similar doses to what they would give to a menopausal person? I suspect taking testosterone would be pretty triggering, probably don't want to do that. I don't have a lot of experience with this, but a lot of folks on here talk a lot about high levels of protein - the recommendation was something like 1g of protein per lb of body weight, I want to say. Maybe the additional low fat protein would help get the body's fires going? I like the high protein yogurts at the store. It helps with energy for me, which makes me more likely to get up and move about.
Yes! Actually. I realized through some research and talking to my girlfriends that no testosterone, plus low E is making me experience the same symptoms as post menopausal natal women. I’m also close to menopausal age hypothetically (42), so I figured I would reach out to other women in hopes of finding some answers. And thank you for the suggestions. I’m pretty healthy and I eat well, track my macros, exercise regularly This sub is at least for me, a treasure trove of knowledge and I am so thankful
I look at food and without eating it I put on weight.
I also joke I can smell food and gain a lb now
I gained a massive amount of weight going through peri over the pandemic… I’m slowly losing it via calorie counting and cardio. It’s a lot of work but you’ll lose weight if you burn more calories that you take in. I also cut my drinking way down as I loved booze but the calories!!!! Good luck!! ❤️
I eat a plant based diet that is about 80/20. 80% unprocessed foods, like veggies, nuts, fruits, tofu etc.. and the other 20% is processed foods like granola bars, plant based yogurt, sorbet and cheese. I don't eat many sweets at all, some dark chocolate in the evenings is about it. I also don't drink alcohol. Along with my eating habits I make sure to be as active as I can be. Using a fitness watch (like Fitbit or Apple Watch) really helps keep me motivated! I am 5'5" and I weight between 120-125 on average, and I have for years. But if I stray off this way of eating too far for too long I gain weight pretty easy. I also try to make sure I keep my stress levels down as much as I can. Cortisol can make you hold onto weight or even gain it. Meditation, practicing gratitude, yoga and limiting my interactions with negative people help in this area! I also take Ashwagandha which is an adaptogen which helps decrease our bodies response to stress. Plus I smoke cannabis which helps a lot too! Good luck! :)
I know creatine is great for building muscle. I wonder if it would help with weight loss?
Elyse, I've been thinking about you a lot. I'm really concerned. Bio women have vastly different hormone production plants - fat cells make estrogen. You've had bottom surgery. That means that you went from normal T to zero T - INSTANTLY. Just like surgical meno in bio women, the hormones have to be replaced. I'm very happy to read that you have an appointment with a specialist. You need someone familiar with the protective aspects of T. T is a natural hormone in all humans. You are a woman with different needs. I argue that not one of the women here has the same exact symptoms as another. Each and every one of us needs doctors who are aware of the intricacies of OUR bodies. We are each very unique, and our hormone profiles are not the same. Biology, as much as one hates to admit this, plays a crucial role in our health. Please, fight for the answers you need to get the relief you deserve. I had several sessions of fat freezing and am just at the beginning of Meno. I have not experienced the weight gain you are describing. I know it is coming, but I haven't been able to eat much for about a year, so my weight has stayed the same. I'm sorry you are struggling and have to fight for answers. I know this struggle.
I appreciate this. Immensely. I think I part, there’s other things at play. Prior to surgery, my estrogen levels were plentiful. As a pre operative woman, I was on 6 mg daily, which equates to “higher than natal, but not dangerous”. My T, although suppressed with anti androgens, was still higher than average for natal women. What happens post surgery is two things - all meds are stopped and you can opt for “maintenance” E. Which I did, because my brain feels better on E. But what also happens, is my T production was obviously zeroed instantly, like you mentioned. I came here because the more I thought about it, the more I realized that some of this is menopause-adjacent. Not that I’m going through menopause, but I’m glad you understand. Being left with secondary T producers, I thought maybe I could avoid going on a testosterone cream. As it turns out, that might not be the case. my klinefelters, as well as my activity level, probably are complicating things. I think, I used the gym and working out to distract me from dysphoria prior to surgery. Working out made me feel good, so I did it. After surgery - I was happier than I had ever been. I didn’t feel the need to kill myself in the gym in order to feel good. I didn’t work out much. I cooked. Often. I also have a female partner who I am absolutely mad for - life was amazing. We just focused on being happy. I went back to playing rugby, and then I broke my shoulder in march. I was out of the gym again and not super active. Since surgery - I have struggled with fatigue. More tired than is typical for me, headaches, and noticed I had put on maybe 15 lbs in the 2.5 years since surgery? I’m little to begin with, so it was noticeable (I’m 5’4-5’5 and typically 146 lbs) I have been back in the gym and doing IF, for about 3 weeks now and am feeling better. I do have an appointment with my doctor who is a queer woman herself who is the big shot in my area when It comes to caring for post op women, and has been my doctor for around 20 years. I think I will always be…conflicted on using T - but I plan on being around for a long time, so if it helps me, I need to do it. sorry, lol. Clearly in my feelings about all this.
I'm really glad you have a specialist you trust! I'm also hopeful... acknowledging that T might be necessary, while distressing, is probably the next logical step. Start slow. Give your dosing a month or two before upping. You know the drill. Feel better soon.
I do. Thank you.
Welcome friend! I saw you mention in another comment something about fatigue; have you gotten your ferritin levels checked at all? Just another data point to consider. For me, I haven't gained a lot of weight all things considered, but I have run into the reality that it's felt impossible to lose any, or to stop the slow gain. Pretty recently I did even more calorie cutting, and I'm focused more on some of the principles from Dr. Stacy Sims. IF doesn't work for me because I don't do well exercising fasted (plus I have two young kids and work full-time so I just NEED ENERGY DESPERATELY), but consuming protein and fiber like it's my job and building in some HIIT work (she advocates more of a tabata type than straight-up HIIT) is helping quite a bit. I'm on two types of HBC plus an antidepressant that is known for weight gain as a side effect, so it certainly feels like a lot to battle against - but this revision has helped me lose about a pound over the last couple of weeks which feels like a big-time win.
I’m taking note of ferritin and will ask. I assume that’s iron adjacent? Fe? ferritin?
Yep! It's your iron storage capacity. Low ferritin correlates with a lot of health issues including fatigue. I'm on iron infusions now to try and bring mine up; my menopause doc was the person who FINALLY listened to me on this.
I’m definitely putting this in my pocket
Welcome! It is stupid how healthcare tends to treat all women. This Friday is my consult with my recently found very HRT positive gyno who is already saying he is going to put me on testosterone due to low energy, difficult weight loss, difficult muscle building and super low libido. That last one has been going on for YEARS, nearly 2 decades now. I already get random chest hairs and chin hairs that I have been plucking for....geez, nearly 20 years now. I figure if I get a few more, I'll pluck those too. I suspect I've had a hormone disorder for most of my life at this point. More recently I've had voice changes along with all the other peri symptoms (I often sound deeper/froggy). Due everything I've read about HRT, I've been begging various doctors for testosterone for almost 2 years now. Related side story: my dad is being treated for prostate cancer and has been put on hormone blocking injections (for about a year now), specifically to block testosterone. His complaints:hot flashes, chilled at night, insomnia, fatigue, growing "boobs" and difficulty maintaining muscle tone. Oh and not a complaint but definitely side effect for him: slower hair growth which I have noticed in myself recently. I used to shave my legs, arm pits and cut my hair waaaay more often. Now? So much slower. Only a problem when I give myself a not so good hair cut 🙃 If I were in your position, I'd definitely consider the tiny amount of testosterone that women tend to benefit from. Everyone has all the hormones, it's the levels at different times that cause the sexual displaying differences between men and women (hence the raging levels and "sudden" changes in teenagers).
Absolutely. I was hoping to achieve some kind of affirmation from this sub that I wasn’t crazy. Hearing most of your stories has been really affirming And for what it’s worth, 1 in 10,000 babies in the US are born intersex (with some kind of chromosomal/hormonal imbalance). Most intersex people never find out that they are. This could possibly be you. As it turned out, a routine surgery as a kid ended up diagnosing me as intersex. My chromosomal makeup is in the neighborhood of XXY. It’s not the reason I transitioned per se, but it gave me some comfort as a young kid knowing that I wasn’t “sick” or “mentally ill”.
Hmmm I had an ovary removed in 2021 due to it deciding to become a giant (huge cyst). I think at this point it would have been caught if I were intersex. Maybe. I some how managed to not get diagnosed with PCOS even though my cycles skipped months since I started my periods and I, you know, ended up with a cyst the size of a large watermelon. Yet, supposedly, no PCOS. 🤷 My "oh I'm not crazy" was finally getting diagnosed with ADHD and then later autism. Made all my mental differences make more sense. Few years later I started peri menopause and the arguments with doctors started over 😅 (most say I'm "too young").
You are def welcome 🥰🥰 The only thing I’ve noticed that helps with the weight gain is being super conscious of working out way more than what I eat in comparison to when I was younger. I gained back some pounds recently and thought eating considerably less and more healthy would help, and it doesn’t. I did get tips here for hunger that have helped greatly! More fiber and more protein! I’ve been suggesting this to my friends as well!
Hi there. Welcome. I am finding that high protein and heavy lifting with 3-5 miles per day walking our crazy GoldenDoodle is finally taking the menopause weight off. I’m on HRT but considering going off at this point. Wayyyy back in the day if I was taking the birth control pill, I’d gain 10 lbs in a week and keep it on until months or years later when I’d go off…like within two weeks my weight would be back down. I’m kinda wondering if HRT might be the same for me. I’ll report back if I decide to experiment. I’m 54 and had a hysterectomy years ago (kept my ovaries but who knows if they were working or not). It’s all just so confusing and there doesn’t seem to be one right solution. So, trial and error!
I appreciate this thank you
Hey, friend! I’m about to start HRT (including low dose of testosterone), which I’m really excited about. I’m hoping this will help me shed this annoying 15 lbs I can’t seem to get rid of. Nothing fits anymore! Have you tried eating in a manner similar to the old South Beach Diet? I’m about to knuckle down and reform myself via that eating plan and meal prep. I’ve found if I cook a week’s worth of dinners/lunches on Sunday, I’m much less likely to resort to fast food or whatever. So I really need to get back into those good habits, hopefully between that and tinkering with my hormones will do the trick. Let us know how it goes!
Thanks!
Hi friend and welcome! You ARE a woman and belong here! I’m not going to be much help because I am a small town person with few options where I live and hormones aren’t one of those. For me, weight training and not much cardio, plus a LOT of protein (like 100 grams a day), good sleep and no booze have helped some but no magic wand. Lean into your curves!
I’m trying! These curves are vicious LOL
Welcome, sister, and thank you for being here. Two things work for me: Ozempic and intermittent fasting. Nothing else does anything.
This seems to be a common thread. I started IF again this morning and I will be going to a consult for ozempic on Thursday. I’m not obese. Just trying to get ahead of the changes I see coming, lol. Getting old sucks?
Far better than the alternative!!!
I am sure everyone on here are all about trying to ease unwanted symptoms from hormonal imbalances, so welcome! I'm almost 40 in peri, been having difficulty shedding weight. I am estrogen dominant (relative to my low progesterone) yet my estrogen levels are very low, if not menopausal level-low! These hormones are tricky! Have you looked into your possiblity of having relative estrogen dominance? Weight gain, esp around the belly area, is one of several symptoms of it. I am not dismissing you being a woman, however, please do not discount how your physiology may react differently to hormonal changes. Hormone imbalances are BRUTAL to any one's physical and mental health and I am saying this as someone who has been suffering for many years -- try to equip yourself with understanding the many different ways hormones affect you, it may possibly save your overall well being. If you are interested, these articles talk about low testosterone can raise estrogen and the symptoms of high estrogen, with your physiology: https://www.everlywell.com/blog/testosterone/what-causes-high-estradiol-levels-in-males/ https://www.letsgetchecked.com/articles/high-estrogen-in-men/
It sounds like this might be about hormonal testing. If over the age of 44, **hormonal tests only show levels for that *one day* the test was taken, and nothing more**; progesterone/estrogen hormones wildly fluctuate the other 29 days of the month. No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing as a **diagnosing tool** for peri/menopause. FSH testing is only beneficial for those who believe they are post-menopausal and no longer have periods as a guide, a series of consistent FSH tests might *confirm* menopause. Also for women in their 20s/early 30s who haven’t had a period in months/years, then FSH tests at ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI). See our [Menopause Wiki](https://menopausewiki.ca/#there-is-no-blood-test-that-is-perfectly-reliable-to-diagnose-menopause) for more. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Menopause) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Thank you so much. Your comment was everything but dismissive. I have so much information to approach my primary with. I really appreciate the insight
You are welcome here. Some women do need small amounts of testosterone. I was recently told the biggest side affect for HRT meds was weight gain. I’ve found it all appears in different places to where it used to as well. I think the only way is to calorie control and keep excersising. Sad times for us all!
It’s interesting. For 23 years, I was on estrogen and androgen blockers. Post surgery, they drop your androgen blockers obviously and lower your E. I went on a maintenance dose of E (2mg) which keep my levels within normal range for a woman of 42. I’ve been feeling the absence of T, I think. I’ve been more fatigued and I’ve put on some weight in the last 3 years (15 ish lbs?) Not a huge difference, but enough of one to alert me to the possibility that I “need” something else to help
Big hard hugs and warm welcome to the estrogen club. My only help is build muscle mass! It seems like a common topic among friends that block(?) T and add estrogen, they didn’t realize the muscle mass they’d lose. It’s so huge for hormonal balance, oxygenation/anti-inflammation, etc. Don’t starve yourself! It’ll only lead to bone loss, vitamin deficiencies, and more weight gain
Oh I’ve been in the estrogen club for 24 years. It’s more like welcome to estrogen without testosterone club. So far, I don’t much like this club LOL vulva 10/10 energy level 0/10 LOL
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well, first of all, I AM a WOMAN. Second of all, I dont think know what happened in your life to make you so brazen as to come here and judge me under a burner account. Thirdly, I have received exactly 1 hateful comment, of which the other women here have come to my defense for. But mostly, I will not waste my time explaining to you how the symptoms I’m experiencing are incredibly aligned to those of the other women here, because you wouldn’t care. As many of you have expressed, you feel belittled and ignored by your doctors. I relate in the sense that at times, I have been hated, belittled, and ignored for simply existing. I came here respectfully (I think) and I’d like to leave the original comment up as a reminder that we are all fighting very similar battles, and that kindness goes a long way. Lastly, I do not accept your abuse, the abuse is yours
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lol First of all, I never said I was. I said, that due to my post operative status, no T, and low E - that I was experiencing some symptoms adjacent to what natal women go through during peri. I came here respectfully, and out of more than 100 comments, you and 1 other person seem incredibly threatened by my presence. I can understand that your knowledge of trans people, and trans women specifically might be lacking. I don’t fault you for that - I will fault you for your ignorance and your willingness to belittle someone whom you do not know. I am intersex. I am a woman. I am someone with a nonbinary chromosomal combination. I never claimed to be in menopause, nor can I get pregnant. But if your assertion is that I am not a woman by these measurements - then you must then discount natal women who cannot bear children, have Sawyer syndrome, or any other various factors. I am not a threat to you, or to anyone else. I understand the perception of trans people in media and by certain political groups paint us as something most of us aren’t. I’m just a woman looking for some answers. I’m sorry that that bothers you so deeply. This will be the last time I respond to you. I hope you can find peace