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What’s Happening to Me?

Updated: Jan 20

by Marie, Your Advocate



You've likely noticed some changes if you’re a woman in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. Maybe it’s how your body feels different in the morning, the shifts in your mood, or how your favorite jeans suddenly don’t fit how they used to. Perhaps you’re dealing with brain fog, unexplained fatigue, or difficulty finding clear answers about your health.

Midlife is full of transformations. As the years go by, it’s normal for our bodies to age. But normal does not mean it’s not overwhelming. For many women, it’s not just about managing the changes; it’s about navigating the maze of questions that come with them.


Common concerns when we reach our 40s and 50s…

As women, our journeys through midlife are as unique as we are. Yet, we share many of the same concerns. According to my husband, Dr. F, the questions he often hears in his clinic echo what studies and articles have highlighted about this stage of life. So, if you’ve found yourself wondering about these things, you’re not alone.

Let’s unpack some of the most common questions and the science behind them.


Why can’t I manage my weight like I used to?

One of the biggest frustrations for many women is that their usual diet and exercise routines suddenly don’t seem to work anymore. I lived it myself. I felt my exercise routine was reaching a plateau, and I started gaining a few pounds without changing my diet. Hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can slow down your metabolism, making weight maintenance more challenging. And it’s not just the scale. The fat distribution also changes with more weight settling around the belly. According to the North American Menopause Society, this shift is all part of the hormonal rollercoaster.


Why can’t I get a good night's sleep?

If tossing and turning has become your nightly routine, you’re in good company. Over 60% of women in menopause report sleep disruptions, thanks to night sweats, insomnia, and those lovely hormonal fluctuations. Sleep isn’t just about rest; it’s the foundation of how we feel and function daily. For over a year, I would wake up in the middle of the night, unable to go back to sleep. No wonder irritability, fatigue, and even more stress start piling up. It took a toll on my relationships and my work.


Why do I feel so foggy?

Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten why? Or struggled to recall something that should be on the tip of your tongue? You’re not imagining it. This "brain fog" is a real and common symptom caused by declining estrogen levels, which play a role in memory and concentration. It’s frustrating and a bit scary, but understanding what’s happening is the first step toward tackling it.


What’s happening to my skin and hair?

Looking in the mirror and noticing accelerated changes in your skin or hair can be unsettling. As estrogen levels drop, your skin may lose hydration, elasticity, and youthful glow. Wrinkles become more pronounced, and thinning hair or hair loss can feel like a cruel joke. Those changes are not easy to accept and can cause distress for some.


Why are my moods all over the place?

One minute, you’re fine; the next, you’re snapping at someone or feeling sad. Sound familiar? Hormonal changes during midlife can wreak havoc on your emotional well-being. Also, it becomes exponential if you don’t sleep well. It’s a vicious circle. Anxiety, depression, and mood swings are incredibly common, as highlighted in studies like Women’s Midlife Health. It’s a reminder that your mental health deserves just as much attention as your physical health.


Why do my bones and joints feel so stiff?

Women can notice joint pain or stiffness. In my case, my left shoulder started to hurt, and it almost happened overnight. A few weeks later, my right shoulder started to hurt. This happened when I started to hear the word "osteoporosis" more often. Declining estrogen levels can reduce bone density, increasing the risk of fractures. It’s another important reason for staying proactive with movement and nutrition.


Should I be worried about my heart?

Heart health becomes especially important after menopause, as hormonal changes can influence cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and cardiovascular risk. It’s not just about avoiding heart disease; it’s about staying strong, active, and vibrant for years to come.


What about my libido and painful sex?

This topic is often considered taboo, and many women feel too embarrassed to bring it up, even with their girlfriends. But let’s talk about it because it’s important.

A decrease in libido and discomfort during sex, often caused by vaginal dryness or thinning tissues, is a very common concern during menopause. According to my husband, Dr. F, most patients open up about these issues only after he gently brings them up during an appointment. It’s crazy how women suffer in silence and feel uncomfortable discussing those topics, even with their doctor!

 

You’re not alone, and acknowledging this is the first step!

If any of these concerns resonate with you, take comfort in knowing you’re not alone. So many of us share the same questions and wonder if anyone else feels the way we do. Yes, aging is normal, but there are ways to decrease or reverse the effects of aging. You don't need to accept to suffer in silence. The good news is that these questions have answers, and with answers come real, practical solutions.


The first step to taking back control is to acknowledge what’s happening. Understanding our bodies' changes and seeking credible, science-backed information empowers us to take action.


Midlife may bring its share of challenges, but it’s also an opportunity. With the life experience, wisdom, and knowledge we have acquired over the years, this can become the best chapter of our lives if we keep that spark and stay vibrant and youthful. It does not have to be hard and painful.


With love and support,

Marie


 


Who is Marie?

Marie, in her mid-50s, is a mother and the wife of Dr. Faruqi. She was a manager at a major financial institution before being diagnosed with breast cancer at 50. This life-changing experience motivated her and her husband to research extensively, ultimately transforming her health and life. Now feeling healthier than ever, Marie is on a mission to empower women, encourage important questions, and serve as the advocate they deserve.





 

Sources for Studies:


  • Health after menopause: Understanding your risks and staying healthy. North American Menopause Society. Retrieved from https://www.menopause.org/




  • Health after menopause: Comprehensive insights on bone density, cardiovascular risks, and other concerns. North American Menopause Society. Retrieved from https://www.menopause.org/


  • Empowerment Through Knowledge: Health Literacy and Patient Empowerment. Schulz, P. J., & Nakamoto, K. (2013). Health literacy and patient empowerment in health communication: The importance of knowledge and understanding. Patient Education and Counseling, 90(1), 5–10. This study explores how health knowledge directly impacts empowerment and decision-making.

 

 

Timeless Youth Empowerment™, led by Dr. Faruqi and Marie Labelle, supports women over 40 and 50 to take control of their health, vitality, and aging journey. We provide education in hormonal balance, anti-aging strategies, and symptom relief for menopause and midlife changes. We address symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and sleep issues, helping women regain energy, confidence, and a youthful glow by guiding women through midlife transitions with natural and medical solutions backed by science.




Disclaimer: The content in this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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