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My husband has been annoyed at the growling and gnashing of teeth because he believes it's a step mom issue when really it's a hormone issue. It's amazing what a home is like when there are 2 females in the home going through a hormone change. Having a 13 year old in with a perimenopausal woman is not ideal but a common scenario.
I haven't told my kids anything about my menopause because I figure they won't have a clue what I'm talking about. I know what they are going through for the most part but they can't appreciate where I am because they don't have the life experience.
I have a greater understanding of where she is and realize that she doesn't know much about managing her cycle of emotions so I am patient. On the other hand, there is a certian level of respect that needs to remain in tact. We should probably get some boxing gloves and just duke it out but we all know girls can't let go like guys do. Guys address it and move on, females.. they tend to carry it around for a while like their favorite purse with everything in it.
I suppose it's timed this way so that I can remember what it's like to be on that emotional rollercoaster. I take it moment by moment, cycle by cycle and look for ways to help her manage her emotions in a positive way. I will get her on a good path to hormone health as she starts out.
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She may or may not like that. I don't see my 13 year old being into stickers though...maybe if I could find some Hot Topic-ey stickers..
She does have a regular cycle but is not willing to talk about it much, which is the hard part.
May 17, 2009 - 8:23amThis Comment
The best way to help your daughter with understanding her hormone fluctuations is to chart them. Develop a 31 day grid with day of the month, and day of the cycle. Day 1 is the first day of her period. Then list a few positive and negative physical, mental and emotional symptoms. If you want to have some fun with it copy the grid onto colored paper, use colorful markers and buy her some stickers to decorate the chart. You may also want to do the same and share the project with your daughter - comparing notes and understanding how you both feel.
You will be amazed at how cyclical and predictable her symptoms will become in relation to where she is in her menstrual cycle. Once she understands this - she will become empowered and be in control of her hormonal health.
Your husband will be forever grateful too.
For more information see Female Mystique on my blog at http://holyhormones.com
May 17, 2009 - 8:06amThis Comment