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Navigating Menopause and Type 2 Diabetes: Insights from Lived Experiences

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Menopause is a significant and often challenging transition for all women, but for those managing diabetes, the journey brings unique complexities. From fluctuating hormones affecting blood glucose levels to increased risks for heart disease and bone density loss, the intersection of diabetes and menopause requires a thoughtful, holistic approach. Over the past several articles, we’ve explored essential topics like mental health, heart health, bone density, treatments, and lifestyle adjustments, all aimed at supporting women through this life stage. But while clinical information is invaluable, there’s nothing quite like hearing from women who have lived through these experiences themselves.

In this final article, women living with type 2 diabetes share their personal stories of navigating menopause. Through their journeys, you will gain insight into how they have managed the physical, emotional, and medical challenges they’ve faced. From hormone replacement therapy (HRT) decisions to non-hormonal prescriptions and holistic remedies, finding the right balance between self-care and medical treatments, these women offer a relatable, first-hand perspective on how they’ve maintained their health and well-being during menopause.

Their voices remind us that while every woman’s experience is unique, the shared wisdom of those who’ve walked this path can provide strength, encouragement, and practical tips for others. Join us as we hear from the experts who live it every day—women like you.

Patricia T: A Journey of Healthy Eating and Menopause Management

Patricia was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2018 at the age of 58. A breast cancer survivor, she takes Anastrozole, a medication used to treat breast cancer which lowers estrogen. She manages her diabetes through lifestyle adjustments.

Patricia first noticed symptoms of menopause in her early 50s, marked by irregular and lighter periods. Over time, she also experienced hair growth on her face, changes in sleep patterns, and some bloating. Interestingly, Patricia’s transition didn’t involve the infamous hot flashes. “I never had hot flashes with my menopause, and I was so grateful. I was concerned when they put me on [Anastrozole] – I thought, ‘Oh great, they’re giving me a pill that can cause menopausal symptoms, and I’ll probably get hot flashes,’ but I did not. I’m very grateful I didn’t,” she shared.

Daily, she manages bloating through exercise, noting that if she skips physical activity, the puffiness in her stomach becomes more pronounced. “With both [menopause and diabetes], I find if I exercise, I am more trim and less bloated,” she explained. Exercise helps me manage both my diabetes and this annoying symptom of menopause.

One of the unexpected challenges Patricia faced was feminine itching, a symptom she didn’t realize could be caused by menopause and diabetes. It was probably one of the most difficult challenges, but with help from her healthcare team and the right medication, Patricia is symptom free.  Keeping up with her symptoms, communicating with her health care team and taking medications as ordered helped her manage all of these issues. Patricia was eventually given stronger medicine and now carries it with her. However, she notes, “Three years later, the itching is [rarely an issue].”

Shelby K: Struggling with Sleep and Hot Flashes

Shelby, diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 1999, entered menopause more gradually after undergoing a hysterectomy in 2015, keeping her ovaries to allow for a natural transition. Her menopause journey began with hot flashes and night sweats, which became more intense over time.

Shelby’s night sweats often woke her up multiple times during the night. “I would wake up in the middle of the night with the sheets completely drenched. It was so intense,” she recalled. Over time, she found some relief as the night sweats and hot flashes subsided, but she still sometimes feels hot when she wakes up and at other times during the day. “It isn’t like a ‘hot flash,’ it’s more like just being hot when everyone else is perfectly comfortable,” she said. Wearing cotton clothes and sitting mainly on leather furniture, rather than heavy cloth, helps.

Shelby found her issues with sleep affected her diabetes management. “The lack of sleep definitely raised my blood [glucose],” she shared. The challenges with sleep were perhaps the most difficult aspect of managing diabetes during menopause. “Managing [elevated blood glucose] was tough,” she said. While trying various therapies, she found little support from healthcare professionals. “All I got was, ‘You just have to live with it.’ There was no practical advice.”

Instead, Shelby turned to acupuncture and regular massages, which helped with managing stress more than the menopause symptoms themselves. “I do think acupuncture helped my overall attitude during the transition,” she noted.

The Emotional Impact: Mental Health and Coping Mechanisms

Both Patricia and Shelby emphasized the emotional and mental challenges of managing diabetes and menopause. For Patricia, the physical appearance of bloating impacted her self-esteem. “I find I am less happy if I look less attractive with a more bloated stomach,” she said. “I find myself disappointed that I’m not exercising more or making healthier food choices.”

Shelby found the combination of insomnia and intense hot flashes particularly isolating, with little to no guidance available from healthcare professionals about how to manage both conditions together. “There just wasn’t much information or suggestions about how to make things better,” she said, reflecting on the lack of resources during her menopause transition.

However, both women stressed the importance of a support system. Patricia found great value in her involvement with DiabetesSisters, where she connects with other women living with diabetes. “It’s such a comfort to have girlfriends going through the same thing. You’re comfortable asking them questions,” she said.

Shelby also believes that finding peer support for women with diabetes is crucial, advising women to surround themselves with others who have been through it. “Talking to other people who have gone through menopause or are currently going through it is helpful,” she said.

Advice for Women on the Same Path

Patricia and Shelby offered some practical advice for women embarking on this journey. Patricia advocates for educating yourself. “As our bodies change, always ask your doctor if symptoms are related to diabetes or menopause,” she advises. “I’m surprised that some of my symptoms are both diabetes AND menopause related. You need that education to put the pieces together.”

Shelby suggests finding ways to stay comfortable during menopause, like investing in cooling sheets and pajamas. “It’s essential to find a way to get the sleep your body needs.” Additionally, she advises dressing in layers, reducing processed foods, and focusing on plant-based eating. “I found that a more plant-based [eating plan] with less processed food really helped. Cook at home more and order takeout less.”

Although facing menopause and type 2 diabetes may seem daunting, Patricia’s and Shelby’s experiences show that by finding the right support, making lifestyle adjustments, and being proactive about self-education, it’s possible to manage both diabetes and menopause effectively.

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