I Went Through Early Menopause At 28

The average age of menopause in the US is 52.
Subscribe to As/Is: bzfd.it/2QaN0dR
About As/Is:
Subscribe for daily videos & series about beauty, fashion, style, body positivity, women’s experiences and lifestyle, and to join a community of incredible women working to empower and inspire each other. We accept you, as is!
Connect with As/Is:
Like us on Facebook: / urgreatasis
Follow us on Instagram: @AsIs / asis
Follow us on Twitter: / asis
Check out our website: buzzfeed.com/asis
Buy our merch: goo.gl/2ny7st
Subscribe to the As/Is Newsletter: www.buzzfeed.com/newsletters/...
Credits: www.buzzfeed.com/bfmp/videos/...
MUSIC
Licensed via Audio Network
SFX Provided By AudioBlocks
(www.audioblocks.com)
STILLS
Cup of tea with dried black cohosh root and tea strainer, close up
Foodcollection RF/Getty Images
Speculum
VICTOR DE SCHWANBERG/Getty Images
/ asis

[@alysham519]

Ugh that's terrible. Medical professionals should never be dismissive. It sucks that so many people have this experience 😔

[@marciaosullivan3200]

There are doctors

[@sicc9893]

Marcia Osullivan ???

[@marciaosullivan3200]

@@sicc9893 generally the doctor is right to dismiss people as they have been trained and you probably are overacting clearly not all the time.

[@nettaleanne]

Marcia Osullivan Doctors don’t know everything and frankly some are only in it for the $ so if you KNOW somethings wrong, press the issue.

[@jo9882]

Yeah mostly to black women

[@attikkitta]

For goodness sake, can we get this woman a freaking doctor to diagnose her? Seriously this is unacceptable.

[@jcompton3098]

Serena couldn't get a doctor to believe her. If you ever need proof that black women bodies, minds, spirits do not exist, then go to a doctor's appointment with them or, if you have the stomach, the ER.

[@apmg924]

JF this is true. This is why I only see black doctors and so does my family... because we’re always brushed off or judged.

[@dianadagoddess3979]

It happens, especially to black women. Sad but true

[@mucizulbeyan]

@@dianadagoddess3979 interesting

[@amandapanda4463]

You know it's so crazy how dismissive doctors can be when something is wrong.

[@ashleymoons]

Hearing stories like this encourages me even more to continue my studies towards becoming a ob/gyn. As a young black woman we are not advocated or heard enough.

[@candigryl]

Yes please we need you

[@mattmatical2235]

Very true! It’s a statistic! Never give up on your goal, we need more doctors like you who will listen to EVERYONE!

[@isiimam1562]

That’s true but it applies to all races, not only black

[@angeljohnson234]

@@isiimam1562 Why did you feel the need to "all lives matter" someone saying that black women aren't advocated for or heard enough? By now, it's a well-established fact that black women are treated differently by medical professionals than other races of women. Heck. Congress has even taken an interest in the maternal mortality rate of African African women. Be part of thes solution and not the problem.

[@isiimam1562]

@@angeljohnson234 I agree that in general black women are pushed away in many instances, however i feel that in Lydia's case if she was white she still would've struggled in the same aspect

[@Clarytee217]

They say don't google your symptoms but very often I feel like that's what you need to do to help yourself.

[@sandrallewellyn2632]

True. There are people that catch things looong before their doctors because they do that. How is someone who sees you for 10-15min a few times a year at most supposed to catch everything?? More people should be their own first line of defense instead of deferring to someone else. Don't be a hypochondriac, but it's your health your responsibility

[@user-dz2hj6jo5h]

True. Google isn’t gospel but it’s a perfect place to start

[@naritruwireve1381]

@@sandrallewellyn2632 you're supposed to see a doctor a few times a year?? I see one like once every 5 years...

[@sandrallewellyn2632]

@@naritruwireve1381 well it depends but I know you're "supposed" to see the dentist at least 2X annually and get a physical annually from your PCP and gynecologist(if it applies), but if you get sick or have a condition then yeah, it's not uncommon to go up to a few times a year. I personally wish I could still get away with 1ce every 5yrs lol

[@naritruwireve1381]

@@sandrallewellyn2632 I mean, I've got a bunch of stuff wrong with me (5 things I can list off the top of my head), but I'm not immediately dying, so my parents brush it off and I'm just like _ok then... 1 visit per 5 years it is_

[@theaniqa99]

I feel bad for her that she didn’t get the care she needed.

[@disneyprincessintraining2725]

Tip for people who have dismissive doctors: ask your doctor to document their lack of treatment and/or testing. They will usually do a 180 real fast. And if your doctor is like that and they work under a practice that isn’t their own, complain to their higher ups. And always do a get to know you consultation before selecting them as a doctor. This is coming from a CNA (and nursing student) that works in women and infants services at a hospital.

[@rainthomps694]

What if they refuse to document it?

[@disneyprincessintraining2725]

Ask to speak to the clinical director. Getting HR and the doctor’s bosses involved will motivate some help. And get evidence of your appointment. The doctors are required by law to document your visit and complaint. It will already be implied they didn’t help but that last push of telling them to full on admit lack of care and treatment usually helps get things going. Hope that helps.

[@katelovell625]

Alex Larson thank you for letting us know this

[@jasmine-rojas]

What do you ask for? A letter stating what and why they are refusing a certain treatment?

[@Splendid_W]

Thank you

[@Tiffy1990]

We women have to go thru so much! Also I hate when doctors don’t believe you or want to help you.

[@bluoof6633]

Tiffany I know! Why do vaginas have to make things so complicated? 😂

[@Diva380]

And she's having to deal with being Black on top of it, which complicates that further and creates more bias.

[@Tom-wr6mq]

@@Diva380 jesus the victim complex is strong here

[@gemfloral4016]

@@Diva380 Very true. It's heartwrenching...

[@JudyCZ]

@@Tom-wr6mq Did you not watch the video? And this happens to women (especially women of colour) all the time. Get off your high horse, please and try to be compassionate for a second.

[@stefanielucu7365]

I think the medical community doesn’t take young women seriously when it comes to our concerns especially when they think we are too young for some conditions. I was misdiagnosed and honestly dismissed with my kidney and liver disease because I am at a healthy weight and my age. I finally got help 4 years after the fact

[@tiffanyday187]

I agree with this I've been dismissed so often by doctors. I had to navigate infertility practically on my own, probably caused by PCOS which my doctor agrees with but hasn't tested or done anything with. I had another doctor insist my daughter was in position and I was dismissed when I told her I didn't think she was. My fundus height was shrinking and I insisted on another ultrasound. Not only was she breech but she was failing to thrive because my blood flow from the placenta had started to decrease. I had to have an emergency c-section at 37weeks and she was only 4lbs. I'm so glad I advocated for us and insisted something wasn't right. I'm not black but I have dealt with dismissive doctors

[@jessii7642]

@Becky Goodhair actually it has happened to A LOT of women. Where they are dismissed and not taken seriously by Doctors. Especially if you're black. There have been countless stories where women have died because doctors refused to take them seriously. And this is happening everyday

[@auburnrose9534]

@Becky Goodhair I'm majoring in public health and there is statistical evidence that black women have lower health outcomes because of dismissal by health practitioners. Because of this, they also have the highest fatality rates and infant mortality rates during childbirth in comparison to other races.

[@auburnrose9534]

@Becky Goodhair Yup. Here's one: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3244674/ and here's another www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6167003/

[@auburnrose9534]

Becky Goodhair from the second source: “pregnancy-related morbidity and mortality also disproportionately affect African American women. In 2013, CDC reported that the preterm rate for black infants was ~60% higher than for white infants (17% and 10.8% respectively).”

[@vickixmai]

This woman is an absolute goddess.

[@Trund27]

vicki may she truly is.

[@jasminevann2105]

“but the plus side is I DONT HAVE A PERIOD NO MORE” i love that ending

[@ChelseaKMusee]

I would absolutely love that

[@user-by5by4pr5s]

Me too.

[@AndreasinGodshands]

Lol..I was like "Okay show off!" ...Just tried to count how many years I have left.

[@maia9056]

Depending on what medication you get given you may still have to have a period every so often in order to keep your womb healthy.

[@meganchandler9078]

The treatment this woman received makes me so angry. But I completely believe it, as a woman, going to the Dr it can be so frustrating!

[@dawnrosewood7060]

They didnt believe my moms pain either. For a year she was in pain until they figured out she had crohn's.

[@neshaoinspopolk4417]

Blessings to your mother I also have Crohn's disease Sending love to my spoonie sister 🙏🏿👑💜

[@Trund27]

Anointiyae Beasley women’s pain is overwhelmingly dismissed by the medical community. It’s a horrible, systemic issue that we have to keep pressure on the medical community to take us seriously!!! Bless your Mom.

[@gallowdance3721]

My mother has Crohn's disease too, I feel so sorry for anyone who has it and has to put up with it. Serious respect to those who have it, keep strong.

[@RoseCloudLyrics]

Same but for my mom she was later diagnosed with endometriosis. 😞

[@brea66]

Drop the doctor's names so we know who not to go to

[@believeinhope1]

Not sure if she should do that for legal reasons 😅

[@justynak.6686]

@@believeinhope1 People do it all the time though xp there are even some websites where ppl rank doctors and leave comments if they are happy with the visit or not. I hope she did at least that.

[@thickymicky1]

Ive been to several doctors and this happens too often

[@takeishaanderson5158]

believeinhope1 yeah rite I would drop the addy real quick

[@dayton900]

brea66 and their addresses. I just wanna talk

[@Electronica4Life]

Mine started with hot flashes and hair loss. I also hadn't gotten my period in a few months. The first two doctors I went to only did a thyroid test, insistent that it was my thyroid. Guess what? Thyroid is perfectly healthy. Finally, I went to my OB and DEMANDED a full hormone panel. Sure enough, my Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) value was 115.3 mIU/mL. My diagnosis - Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as premature ovarian failure. I suppose the moral of my story is that Doctors are not Gods. You have got to advocate for yourself. Demand the kind of treatment you want and expect. Period. ✌🏼

[@lousunny5682]

Electronica4Life oh gosh I forgot about the hair loss. That sure does happen too. I went through a time when my hair was shedding a lot 😟

[@Electronica4Life]

@Rachel Forshee I was just diagnosed on 02/10/20, and I am 30. 😕

[@capitolbreeze]

Omg I have this too! Diagnosed at around 28.

[@PandaNFriends23]

Electronica4Life I wish I’d had read your words years ago. Had to learn this the hard way.

[@gerryo25]

I was diagnosed at 28 but my experience was much better than the woman in the video. My gyno was very kind and hugged me when I cried. I think she did a better job than when I went to Columbia University Medical center. All that doctor told me was they don't know what causes it and my Vitamin D levels are low. I was like of course it's winter time smh. The first doctor was awesome!

[@alexandriaporter2674]

As a future health care provider I’m thankful for your story, it is infuriating that you were ignored by people that are trained to help you.

[@MrCupcakeMonkey]

If your doctor doesn't believe you find a new keep finding new ones until someone does because your health is important

[@Diva380]

This, and I would tell her to find doctors of color, preferably also women, to remove some (if not ALL) of that bias. More likely to be heard that way.

[@apinder53]

@@Diva380 I was going to say that. I automatically look for a black woman to treat myself and my child.

[@ourtubesocks]

That’s fine, unless you’re an American and have a significant co pay with every doctor visit. She shouldn’t have to take time off work and pay multiple fees just to find someone who believes her. More doctors should listen to patients and take their concerns seriously.

[@Diva380]

@@ourtubesocks Also true. But since we know white medical professionals won't do it anytime soon, that's why I suggested paring it down to medical professionals of color (preferably Black) who are women. I know that's not easy either, of course. But it's worth a shot for her health.

[@katiechambers1319]

Diva380 I don’t think it’s right to say that “white medical professionals” won’t help her. Bad medical professionals won’t help her, regardless of race. Yes, many of those might be white, but there are also great white doctors and terrible doctors of color. I don’t think it has to do with your race so much as your skill and personality.

[@EK-xz8ig]

I've had my own issues with doctors not believing me, they should really be ashamed of themselves.

[@recoil53]

In the old days they'd just call it hysteria - it's built into the profession. Also many medical students when quizzed believe that black people have a higher pain threshold so they don't feel the need to take it into consideration. Fun group.

[@lizmowrey9866]

For me it was more not taking my choices seriously. I know how annoying it is

[@charlotteoleary196]

On a side note - it's so wonderful to hear another woman say she really, really doesn't want kids!

[@libera7161]

Luckily she doesn't want one. I think it is really unfortunate when women who don't want kids get pregnant and have to abort or those kids get into orphanages and Women who do want children have trouble getting pregnant. Things like that make the world seem unfair.

[@ToharaAmah]

Completely agree, Charlotte!

[@tiptip7]

Right. I don't understand why it's so hard for people to believe that there are women who just don't want children. Like it's not a requirement smh. It's so annoying.

[@tracybeeeee]

I love it too! Too bad this comment section is full of women saying that she is suppressing her "natural biological desires" to have kids. Maybe she just simply... doesn't want kids?

[@seppyq3672]

We are out there! Lots of us don't want kids. :)

[@ts1331ts]

I think all medical professionals that see young women that say they’re going through weird things never want to do test because they think it’s all a lie. I’m 19 and started being on birth control at 15. I was having my period for 5 years by 15. After i started the birth control, I got weird discharge all the time. I never told my mom about it until nearly a year later. They did a test and it was a yeast infection. Then, a month or two later, another came back, and didn’t go away until I saw the doctors again. I was experiencing consist yeast infections that wouldn’t go away and stay away, even with medication. I just realized a couple months ago that I think it was because of my birth control after looking into the high estrogen levels and how the yeast infections only started occurring after I started on birth control. My doctor didn’t believe me and said she thought I have type 2 diabetes. I don’t have freaking type two diabetes. She made me get a blood test anyways, and of course it was negative for that. So I said again, I think it’s my birth control. Took her 6 months to believe me and she finally changed my birth control. This was in December. Now, I still have another yeast infection that’s been going on for about a month and a half, which I started my birth control in December. So it’ll take a few more months until it works properly and my body adjusts to the new hormones. LEMME TELL YOU- these medical professionals never listen to young women experiencing problems with “lady only” stuff like period problems and pregnancy. This is a common issue against women, even by female doctors because they don’t have the same experience and all female bodies are so drastically different

[@cowlufoo2]

And it's not even with periods. One of my friends wants a breast reduction but none of the doctors she's been to will do it, or they say wait several years then come back (she's 21).

[@ts1331ts]

cowlufoo2 yeah! Anything with female stuff isn’t taken seriously. I had a friend who has severe back problems because of how massive her boobs are. And they won’t let her get a reduction either 😠

[@shannan0100]

Oh my gosh, I think I’ve been experiencing the same thing, every single cycle I experience yeast infection type symptoms and it only started with my birth control. I wonder if switching birth control would help??

[@sksainc688]

Pretty disgusting and ignorant that she tried to make it a race thing. All that's doing is hurting her own people. Tasteless.

[@cowlufoo2]

@@ts1331ts And my mom has endometriosis, fibromyalgia, and other health problems, but (female) doctors and gynecologists have told her that her pain isn't real.

[@chipblake3708]

Find a good endocrinologist and have them run your needed blood tests. They deal with this sort of thing exclusively whereas an OB/GYN does not.

[@sliceofjoy3589]

Mama Dr Jones needs to hear her story, my heart is broken. So hard, may you find peace and a helpful OB/GYN.

[@TheEarthScienceTeacher]

Slice of Joy, I love her!

[@erinsmith2589]

Yes! I thought the same thing! Absolutely love her!

[@kellie_y]

Because my periods where never on time during my teenage years, I also thought that that's just my body. Then at 20 I stopped getting monthly periods. They'd happen every few months. Then they stopped. It took two years for me to be diagnosed with a pituitary tumor. I'm now 28 and have had regular cycles because I'm taking medication to treat the tumor. But now I'm experiencing endometriosis and that's another struggle!

[@landrydixon7385]

i’ll be praying for you and your health!! 🤍

[@landrydixon7385]

i’ll be praying for you and your health!! 🤍

[@seethalaxmikp3953]

hope you get well soon

[@Gabriela-zp1kj]

kellie At around 18, I was also diagnosed with have the pituitary tumor. It didn’t take long for me to be diagnosed after the symptoms started, simply because I had already been going to an endocrinologist because of other hormone problems. Have been taking the medication for five years now, and I’m probably on my last few months of it! The tumor has greatly reduced in size and everything seems to be in control. :)

[@SarehLove]

kellie Did you ever try BC? Mine have always been extremely irregular but BC has really helped with them. I’m curious to see what would happen if I went off of it. It’s been about 3 years now.

[@journeywithchi1415]

Lydia is an absolute ray of sunshine! So much grace, poise, and eloquence. It breaks my heart when women are not taken seriously by the medical profession, particularly when they are young and Black. This just reaffirms my passion to one day become a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner so I can be of service to women who need vital access to quality healthcare. No one should ever be made to feel as if their voice isn't being heard by their healthcare provider!

[@yrevra2407]

I'm 30, not wealthy and not lucky in love. I want kids, and I want a family, no one wants to be alone. But. I don't want to bring a child into this world by myself, especially if I can't support them. I work a job in customer service and I often see alot of mothers and younger teen mothers, it's hard. Because I feel like my door is closing, which is silly cause I'm pro-adoption. But my point is this: Just knowing that there's other women out there who are talking about this subject or dealing but successfully living full lives without kids, gives me so much hope. It makes me feel like I'm not being totally stupid for having concerns or for what I think my future most likely will lead. It makes me feel so much better, so thanks for sharing! Thankyou so much!

[@Benni777]

Doctors needs to stop being dismissive especially if the doctor is male and the patient is female! IT IS SO ANNOYING OMG! 😡🤦🏻‍♀️

[@marciaosullivan3200]

There are doctors you are not

[@lightningbug3189]

@@marciaosullivan3200 What exactly are you trying to say...? Of course there are doctors, how do you know if either of the other commentors are doctors?

[@marciaosullivan3200]

@@lightningbug3189 I doubt everyone one liking a comment suggesting doctors don't know whats a big deal or not are doctors

[@lightningbug3189]

@@marciaosullivan3200 There are exactly 2 other people on this thread. My question was how do you personally know whether either of them are doctors? I said nothing about likes.

[@lightningbug3189]

@@marciaosullivan3200 Also, this is about being dismissive of patient concerns and real symptoms. I think almost everyone knows at least one person who was misdiagnosed or dismissed when a treatable medical condition was present. I have also been to dismissive doctors and doctors who do want to solve things. Do I trust a doctor's expertise? Yes, they are supposed to know things I do not. Can they lose that trust? Yes, just like any other professional.

[@theindigopapillon3495]

Keep searching until you find a doctor that listens. This is so important. Thank you for sharing!

[@laurenthurman8504]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I was diagnosed with premature ovarian failure at 30. I am African American. I stopped having a period at 16 and was put on birth control to "regulate my periods." This probably masked my menopause symptoms. I don't share it with anyone because it embarrasses me that I will never have children and don't know how to explain it. I struggle with dating because I don't know how or when to talk about something like this. Also, people don't really believe me. I get the "you dont really know that, could get pregnant one day" as though I would make something like this up. I was put on hormone replacement therapy and will be on it until I'm 50. Find a good doctor, this will help combat osteoporosis, your higher risk of breast cancer, and menopause symptoms. Again, thank you for sharing.

[@lavender9757]

Doesn't HRT have high risk breast cancer? Am in menopause and am so so scared of starting HRT

[@jacada4891]

Wow Your so strong, thank you for sharing ❤

[@alexwall3300]

Thank you for making this video. I started going through menopause at 17. I’ve been going through hormone replacement for about 2 years now. It’s really comforting to hear that this happens to other people too

[@jesswinter]

This scares me a lot as someone who wants to have kids in my late 20s.

[@salvolondon]

Jessica Anne don’t worry , it’s pretty rare . When they said 5 per cent they didn’t mean at 28 . At 28 must be closer to 0,1 per cent .

[@RochelletheRealtor]

Don’t borrow trouble that isn’t yours.

[@matinajazmine]

Same

[@GirlDo3]

Same because I have irregular periods and the symptomes they showed for people at risk of having it. I always felt like there was something off about me in that domaine

[@svasianfilipiname6603]

How do you control when you want to have children?! Do you have a partner already or are you going my route (Sperm Bank)?!

[@AreilKnight]

One of the fact cards says "such as when both ovaries are removed in a hysterectomy" Please stop spreading this misconception! A hysterectomy has nothing to do with the ovaries. A hysterectomy refers to the removal of the uterus, in its entirety (total hysterectomy), or above the cervix (supracervical hysterectomy, partial hysterectomy) with or without surrounding connective tissues (radical hysterectomy) I've had a total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy sans oophorectomy. I still have my ovaries but I have to explicitly tell people this because they hear "hysterectomy" and assume I have no ovaries. It's like confusing the vulva with the vagina. I understand why people say it, it's slang, but it can cause confusion and problems when you're trying to educate people. Having your ovaries removed is an oophorectomy. Having your fallopian tubes removed is a salpingectomy, and having part of the vaginal canal cut out is a partial vaginectomy. You can have a combination of these surgeries. For example, having your uterus and ovaries removed would be an oopho-hysterectomy.

[@sarabridley4421]

THIS 👏👏👏

[@SmoothOpe_]

Thank you !!

[@ketnetty]

You can have a type of hysterectomy where they remove your ovaries too. So they are not totally wrong. Of course they can also be removed alone without touching the uterus

[@AreilKnight]

@@ketnetty you're referring to an oopho-hysterectomy, it's not a hysterectomy, it's a word used to describe two surgical procedures, a hysterectomy and an oophorectomy performed at the same time. The word hysterectomy comes from the Greek, Hysta, meaning womb, and ectomy, meaning "to cut out". A hysterectomy doesn't involve the ovaries. If you have both the ovaries and uterus removed during a surgery, it's an "oophorectomy and hysterectomy", sometimes called oopho-hysterectomy for short. It's not a "type of hysterectomy" the same way "partial" and "total" are types of hysterectomy. An oopho-hysterectomy is the name given to TWO procedures, one being a hysterectomy. It's like if you get a tummy tuck and a breast augmentation done at the same time. You wouldn't say "some tummy tucks involve getting breast implants" it's two different procedures.

[@berniceg.8863]

Went to an ob/gyn yesterday and the woman taking notes and asking questions never heard of a Salpingectomy...had to spell it for her, too. When i told her i also had a hysterosalpingogram done to view my pelvic ogans, that, too, she's never heard of nor could she spell it.

[@sravanisharon2894]

Giving you a hug sweet heart. You're so brave. Keep going on🤗🤗 love you 😍😘

[@natalie_kendel]

This is such a great communicator, and so brave and great! Well done!

[@ebbidibebbidiboo2640]

I hope Lydia contacts Mama Doctor Jones so that she can help direct her to some reliable doctors, or at least that the offer makes its way to her so she knows it's on the table. Hearing how dismissive those doctors were is really disappointing and I hope she finds someone who will listen and help sooner rather than later

[@becdewar3522]

I can't believe how Dr can treat you like this it the same for me with my anxiety and depression and autism

[@fannidianaklucsik]

Someone tell this girl to contact Mama Doctor Jones to help find a doctor for her! Dear god.

[@centrifugalmuse]

Thank you so much! I’m 38 and have so many of the same symptoms! Even extra weight around my midsection not matter what I eat or do...docs won’t even listen to me at 38! So thank you for bringing awareness to this problem and what we need to do to help ourselves when the healthcare industry fails us. Thank you so much!!!!

[@---nj7hl]

Centrifugal Muse Raw Organic Maca Root helped me level out hormones and with hot flashes. Burdock root tea helped me with the other symptoms and I too couldn't loose weight no matter how much I exercised until I started drinking the tea. LOL Ppl thought I was working out. But in reality it was a combo of healthy eating, sleeping and the burdock root tea..a few times a month of exercising is not enough or consistent for me but they thought I was working out like Consistently. Good luck!

[@centrifugalmuse]

-- thank you so much! I’ve tried maca and dim with bioperenine. I’ve never heard of burdock root and I will definitely try it! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! 🤗

[@---nj7hl]

Centrifugal Muse Np. Yes, I also realized taking oneself out of a toxic environment and/or toxic individual(s) also prevents from our cells to renew and get us better. Now that I have that stress burden off my shoulders..I also feel better, less stressed out and, therefore, able to sleep better at nite.

[@severusslave]

You are telling my exact story. It's very scary but also comforting. I'm on an insane amount of medication because I was/am losing bone density too soon. I'm now 35 years old and am on my meds for 2 1/2 years now. The diffrerence in the way I feel physically and mentally is staggering. I've also never wanted to have my own children (I got 28 in my class, that's enough for me), so the "disasterrous" news all the doctors told me, were not that bad. My thyroid (the brain of our hormone system) is being destroced by my immune system and it causes my ovarian disfuntion - and it too started around the age of 28. Tip: Ask for bloodwork on Vit D3, Estrogen, Testosterone, Triiodthyronin (T3) and Thyroxin (Tetraiodthyronin, T4). The results schould be telling. Get an appointment at an endocrinologist and a OB/GYN and make them share the results with each other. Also, if your health provider does not listen to you, make them sign unter a statement that they were unwilling to treat you/investigate your problems. You'll be suprised by their change of motivation. Even here in Germany under universal healthcare, us weird cases have to be more active in the pursuit of proper health care.

[@M4tchStickGirl]

I hope she files a complaint to the medical board against those doctors. I’m so sorry that happened to you (as a POC young woman it happened to me to). Very frustrating! I promise to become a physician we can all trust

[@Lasluna]

I feel awful that you've been dismissed by so many doctors. I am happy yours being proactive on research and teaching people on this platform. Thank you for standing up.

[@ssaliormoon15]

Can you guys do a video on the stigma of black women being treated in the medical field

[@KarinaCarranza-vl4px]

ssaliormoon15 🙄🙄

[@m.a.humphrey6194]

As one... i have been deeply affected by the stigma of being black. Doctors don’t say that but how they will treat you. Example. I should of been at a pain clinic three years ago for DDD. A disease that I didn’t know i suffered till i got to the pain clinic. I suffered a injury at work that pushed this into high gear. My workers COMPensation doctor and primary are woman from minority groups. Yet they didn’t do manual labor, their doctors. This Friday is my implantion for my back stimulator. I’ve been delayed once already...

[@carter5548]

Yes!

[@thanamesny7807]

You should read Medical Apartheid by Harriet A. Washington.

[@sk9597]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/inK3hHR-f7CFmpo In the meantime, this is a great video for that topic! :)

[@kakashiishot8819]

Wow sis you’re strong! But I feel you when it comes to medical professionals dismissing you! Especially when you are young and black; for years ( I’m 19 now) I would complain about horrible joint and bone pain as well as fatigue and every doctor I would go to would just say I’m too young to feel like that, and write me off as a depressed teen! But finally I went to a rheumatologist and got diagnosed at 18 with fibromyalgia; so yes sis I feel you!!!

[@danisaur33]

i started experiencing menopausal symptoms when i was 18. my period has always been erratic like this, and i never heard someone else describe the same thing. i don't feel alone anymore.

[@ladennayoung2939]

Good video. It is good that you shared this. A lot of people probably need this info.

[@kaydenevideo]

Thank you, As/Is, and to this beautiful woman, for sharing her story. Thank you.

[@isoblah]

💗 Thank you for sharing your story. I hate dismissive medical professionals.

[@ClassicDominique]

Gotta start asking them to document that they refused to test for certain things.

[@EmmaP678]

Amazing woman. Grateful they shared their story.

[@alisonclifford9691]

It’s so frustrating how so many medical professionals didn’t listen to you. Also that they wouldn’t even run a damn test. When I was curious about what was causing my joint pain, I asked my doctor if he could run a few blood tests. He stated it wasn’t necessary...so I asked that he put our conversation (including his unwillingness to run the tests) in his notes. He ran the tests. I only did that because I read that it worked for another woman, so just something to note in case you need your doctor to listen to you.

[@winstonandhector9336]

I hope she finds Mama Dr. Jones's video!!

[@cherishdeb]

Thanks for telling your story

[@simplysonya100]

Thank you for sharing your experience. For some people it can be hard to find good doctors that will listen and trust that people know their bodies and to take patients seriously. Wishing you better doctors and good health!

[@kaiceeholloway8830]

Incredible story. Glad she shared.

[@blacksoulsunnie]

I began going through menopause at 21. I am not diagnosed but I KNOW this has to be what is happening! No one will help me. The wild part is that this is the only person I’ve ever heard have this issue! Every symptom she spoke on are symptoms I have experienced! Thank you for sharing this!

[@mirandaisgross]

If you need some support, or just to feel like you're not alone, there's a Facebook group for people with premature menopause called Women Supporting Women: premature ovarian failure & insufficiency POF/POI

[@---nj7hl]

Cameron Georgette I took, "Superfoods by MRM Raw Organic Maca Root Powder" like a pinch or 2 to start in the mornings w lemonade everyday and this helped me w the hot flashes. Burdock root tea also helps with other symptoms. Not all powders, herbs are created equal and will not work if its not organic and of good quality. Blessings.

[@sarahjustice526]

Cameron Georgette sending you love

[@jacintamcwha7452]

I went through menopause at 15, I was so lucky to have an awesome dr who sent me for the tests I needed and discovered it straight away. I was diagnosed with osteoporosis by the time I was 20 and HRT has really helped me to feel more normal :)

[@Bribreezzzyy]

Jacinta Sherlock when did you get your period? If you don’t mind me asking?

[@jacintamcwha7452]

Brianna Peterson I got my first period when I was 13 and I don’t mind :)

[@nataliielara]

Jacinta Sherlock did you want any children ?

[@jacintamcwha7452]

natalie lara i was 15 at the time so it wasn’t really something I had considered. I thought maybe one day if it happened but that’s about it. I’m 26 now and I’ve obviously accepted that I can’t have children, but if my partner and I decide we want kids down the track we have discussed adoption:)

[@jacintamcwha7452]

Shammy M I wish it wasnt

[@neshaoinspopolk4417]

Thank you for coming forward

[@LesYeux101]

Thank you for sharing something we don't really hear or talk about. I think I'm going through this now. Years ago I told my doctor my symptoms and asked to be tested, but she pushed my concerns aside and told me I was just stressed. Now more symptoms are popping up, and though I said I didn't want kids in order to stop being pressured to have them, I knew that the final decision was mine. Now, it may not be and that scares me. Now I'm almost 29. I'm currently on my period, but recently experiencing terrible night sweats that never occurred when I was younger. This has been on my mind for days now, and waking up to this video feels like a cruel joke. Ugh. I need a drink.

[@---nj7hl]

B.Sam69 Organic Raw Maca Root by Superfoods by MSM a pinch or two in juice helped with my night sweats & burdock root tea helped with my other symptoms. Blessings.

[@mommymarine1756]

Yas! To no periods. I love her spirit. I’m so glad she didn’t let this break her and that she has found the bright side of a horrible situation. Thx for getting the word out about this. There needs to be more education on the female body even if it’s simply “this is what happened to me”.

[@kaykovo1]

She is so well spoken. She did research and looked into it herself. She should not have had to. Why do doctors not take people seriously when they are saying they are having issues. Its happened to me around 19/20 years old. I was having eye pain and not a single doctor believed me. Took so many tries and finally someone did the test and examined me and saw I had glaucoma. Not everyone with glaucoma can feel their pressure and I could. So those doctors before me just blew it off. So hard to find a doctor anymore that actually cares and wants to help.

[@mixedlove1234]

Well spoken....is she supposed to beat box?

[@Elubial]

Thank you for speaking up and speaking out.

[@vsm6847]

This is infuriating. I went through something similar, and my doctor actually said the words “no one understands hormones”. Women’s health care is draconian. Doctors only care about treating pregnant women. The rest of the time we can just suffer. We should all be furious.

[@ifonlyunu994]

I was misdiagnosed for months. They really do overlook us...and my doctor was black.

[@Diamond-xl1vs]

Chuna G no it matters with them being black because most would help their own people

[@amalzuhair4495]

28! I’m 31 and just had a baby it’s weird to think about menopause at our age but this video really puts things in perspective.

[@svasianfilipiname6603]

My Chinese-Filipina aunt was lucky. She found a person to have children with...at 44. She already had three children with her first husband. She had twin boy and girl back in 2012 at the age of 49...

[@dionnewillis2374]

I am proud of you for figuring out what is going on with your body and beating back the doubt that may have surfaced due to the “professional” guidance you received. I can write about similar experiences of dismissal in the medical community as others attest to, but the lesson for me is to really work hard at knowing your own body. I am encouraged.

[@lydiacaradine]

Thank you so much for sharing this!

[@sharstarg2414]

I’m going through the same at 38, all I can say is stay informed through the internet & always find a GREAT health food store that offers intelligent advice!

[@eschechtman]

It's been 3 months since this video and I still think about Lydia's medical experience all the time. Did she ever get the help she needed? I hope she is ok. Sending love.

[@lydiacaradine]

I'm just coming back to this video since filming it and I'm so, so shocked by all of the concerned, supportive comments. I'm STILL trying to get the proper care that I need, but I'm not giving up. I'm talking a little about my current health issues on my channel. I really, really appreciate your kind words, Erin!

[@toisummergracehaynes8401]

Blessing My mom is 101 years young. She is full of Grace; She shares that Nature Power of the Earth is your Healing Spirit. She said keep your ovaries and rub your abdomen Daily with warm water packs, castor oil with cheesecloth.

[@actual______criminal]

I have been brushed off by doctors, told I was making it up, and misdiagnosed since I was a child until I was finally diagnosed with a genetic condition at 18. I feel your pain my heart goes out to her.

[@kali18]

Thanks for making this. I’m 33 and had to go on BHRT. I always been a athletic female and healthy lifestyle and then Bam! All the signs of something wrong with me hit me in my late 20s. It took so long to get real help. It is upsetting that so many doctors are horrible and don’t take young people seriously. Some doctors in my opinion need to get re-educated on something called Life.

[@RealMexFoodShouldntGiveUDrrhea]

I feel so bad for her. My mom is currently experiencing some of the symptoms of menopause, but she’s nearing 50. This poor girl was so young. I’m happy that she did research what was happening to her since she was dismissed. I was dismissed as a young teen for severe joint pain and stiffness, underdevelopment, hair loss and severe stomach pain once in a while. I never went back to the doctors. Sorry.

[@alebolan483]

I just found out that I’m premenopausal two months ago at the IVF clinic and I’m only 32. It hit me like a brick wall. The last month, I struggled with depression and I hated my body because I felt betrayed. Finally, I have been able to accept my diagnosis but still hurts when I see my friends pregnant. I have switched doctors and I’m hoping that she will be willing to do egg retrieval

[@karydiaz74]

Yupp! Went through it at 38 due to high stress levels but started when young with some of the same symptoms that you mentioned. Thanks for sharing!

[@joycepantoncanilao8444]

Can I have your messnger pls

[@CupcakeKrystle]

Thank you for talking about this publicly. Understanding breeds acceptance.

[@ninastar5285]

I like how she takes charge or responsibility for her health.

[@Algorithmicgeneratedwordsalad]

Mamadoctorjones wants you to reach out to her

[@gabriellef3351]

Love this video. Everything she is saying is perfect.

[@faghfirlyauruliaanasyadufa6895]

Props BuzzFeed this is the kind of content that I signed up for, back to the educational content

[@jadac9678]

Things like this are why we need more black doctors. Too many of us black women go to the doctor and are turned away or dismissed. We're 3x more likely to die during pregnancies and experience complications it's scary

[@LittleLaanekas]

Jada C they lie to white women as well and don't usually believe what we're saying, especially when we're young women.

[@jadac9678]

@@LittleLaanekas with all due respect, this video wasn't about white women, and neither was my comment. Yes, women are often dismissed with issues because of medical and social biases that women are emotional and we're being overreactive. Even down to the social class. But add in being black,fat, and a woman, and for some that's a deadly trifecta. Look up black maternal mortality rates. Please stop trying to derail conversations that aren't about you and instead respect them. Black women already talked over and dismissed enough as it is, let us be heard.

[@niacafe7542]

She is lucky and unlucky at the same time

[@Kuwkay]

How is she lucky?

[@aidenp.3636]

kayla ayan she doesn’t have periods anymore

[@electroxcolorful]

She didnt want children so she doesnt have to worry about accidentally getting pregnant. Also no periods so no blood, no cramps, no spending money on products.

[@aidenp.3636]

JB Thomas wait she doesn’t want children? she’s kinda winning at life since she went thru menopause

[@electroxcolorful]

@@aidenp.3636 yeah she said she has never ever wanted kids. But yeah menopause also has not so great symptoms like she mentioned

[@Bernie_777]

U are such a strong person. Love your positivity.🤗

[@PamelaGrace31]

So glad I mustered up the strength to finally watch this. I share some of those symptoms and I have a family history of this, so I need to go to the ob gyn (although I’m scared out of my mind because I’m young and a black woman)

[@anayotothe]

Kinda freaked out about this. Just yesterday i was telling my friend that I think I'm going through this and today here is this video and she's the same age as me 😳 i need to go to the OBGYN asap!

[@psycicflower]

Get your FSH levels checked, it's the hormone that's usually checked for menopause and it's what tipped my doctor off when I was having issues. (I went through menopause in my late 20s)

[@anayotothe]

@@psycicflower thanks for the tip!

[@thesnowflakediaries5267]

i went through it at 17, nothing like hypopituitarism 🥰

[@TellSamyra]

Thanks for sharing your story

[@sarahh.25]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience.

[@naomilotz9788]

It’s so mading going to the doctor and tell him what is happening to you. They all are like that get a woman problem or it all in your head. That’s what all five cardiologist said to me, it was intell a drove two hours way from home I found the best cardiologist ever dr.Cuculich! He is so careing and listens figured out I have pots syndrome.

[@lovedaymorbid]

Mama Doctor Jones here on youtube (certified OBGYN) just did a react to this! She wants to help Lydia and hopes she or Buzzfeed will reach out to her!

[@annpringle8219]

Great video very informative.

[@spr15]

This is the kind of content youtube needs to have more. This tells us that we need to trust our instincts more than doctors. It's okay to be proved wrong post results than to be sorry later in life. God bless all my sister tribe out there . 💕

[@Ella-il8nr]

I’ve been so confused about my menopause since it started when I was 15 and this video really gave me the reassurance and strength I needed.

[@zoeywhitaker9718]

I just found out I went through menopause at 18 :(

[@thesnowflakediaries5267]

i went through it at 17, ur not alone!!

[@mirelamihai9968]

Girl you are so strong!My heart is breaking for you,I pray good things come your way after such bad news!

[@jeansprouts88]

What are your symptoms?

[@thesnowflakediaries5267]

Bean Sprouts saw you in notifs, went through same thing so ill answer as well, hair loss, sluggishness, wrinkles, boobs start sagging, NO PERIOD FOR A LONG TIME, voice gets a lil deeper, joints hurt, cant sing as well stuff like that

[@lousunny5682]

🤗🤗🤗 I feel you girl

[@SandeeJay]

Thanks for sharing this was very informative.

[@aneeshajohnson9762]

You are a strong woman...thank you for sharing your story

[@KIXWASHERE]

OMG Im not alone in this!!! Ive been denying my menopause for years cuz of my age but its true!!

[@yoursocialmoth]

I really hope some medical professionals see this and make serious changes. The way black women are treated is unconscionable!

[@sksainc688]

It's not a "black women" thing. So ignorant and tasteless to see black women trying to propel their "cause" any way they can. Lol what a joke.

[@salem5953]

SKSA Inc agreed.

[@swanqueen]

@@sksainc688 O really? www.americanbar.org/groups/crsj/publications/human_rights_magazine_home/the-state-of-healthcare-in-the-united-states/racial-disparities-in-health-care/

[@swanqueen]

@@sksainc688 the CDC disagrees with you: "The PRMR (pregnancy related mortality ratio) for black and AI/AN women aged ≥30 years was approximately four to five times that for their white counterparts. PRMRs for black and AI/AN women with at least some college education were higher than those for all other racial/ethnic groups with less than a high school diploma. Among state PRMR tertiles, the PRMRs for black and AI/AN women were 2.8-3.3 and 1.7-3.3 times as high, respectively, as those for non-Hispanic white (white) women." www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6835a3.htm?s_cid=mm6835a3_w

[@laurieanne9179]

SKSA Inc It didn't happen to you, therefore it's not real? Logic and empathy--you need them.

[@Lyfschangineveryday]

Thank you so much for this video... very informative and helpful!!!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@virginiacannon2023]

Thank you for sharing your story. I had an emergency, radical hysterectomy and double oophorectomy when I was 24 years old. I was bleeding to death from my menstrual cycle. I had bled for over 4 years straight due to fibroids, like you, I was misdiagnosed and not listened to by doctors. I was not fully informed of the medical consequences that I would endure for the rest of my life: slower metabolism, high risk of osteoporosis, skin changes, libido changes, and etc. I am nearly 50 years old. I went through a time of grieving because I wanted more children. I wish someone would have listened sooner! I hope your willingness to share your story will help others.

[@-iq8sm]

Did you take hornome theraphy?

[@katemccain9463]

I have a friend who went through menopause when she was barely 15. She had to get basically all of her reproductive organs removed.

[@Platysmapus]

I had 3 coworkers who were obviously going through menopause, but had no idea what was going on with them. One of these women was in her 60’s and two were about 50. One day I was talking about my PCOS, and all of them decided they must have suddenly come down with PCOS. I tried to explain it’s something they would have been dealing with their whole lives. I think they were so afraid of the social stigma around menopause that they just wouldn’t even humor the thought. I made the mistake of suggesting to one of them that it was menopause. I thought she was going to set me on fire. She flipped out almost cried and told me that she couldn’t be going through that because she was too young (50) and she had never taken birth control (what?) So never do what I did unless you know the person super well, and know you aren’t going to hurt their feelings.

[@omotanwa2986]

You are a strong woman. Sorry you went through this at such a young age.

[@maiya4195]

I needed this