Sherri Shepherd, the well-known talk show host and comedian, recently shared her humorous perspective on perimenopause during an episode of her show, Sherri. Her open and honest discussion about this stage in women’s reproductive health has sparked conversations about the challenges that often go unnoticed during perimenopause. Through her funny yet sincere storytelling, she has shed light on the physical and emotional changes that many women go through at this time, making her experience both relatable and informative.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause, sometimes called “the menopause before menopause,” is the period leading up to menopause when hormonal changes start affecting a woman’s body. It usually begins in a woman’s 40s but can start earlier, even in the mid-30s, and can last for 7 to 10 years. During this phase, estrogen levels gradually decrease, leading to symptoms like irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and disruptions in sleep patterns.

For Shepherd, perimenopause brought some unexpected revelations. Despite assuming she was already in menopause and couldn’t get pregnant, her doctor clarified that she was actually in perimenopause, meaning pregnancy was still a possibility. This news left her feeling a mix of frustration and disappointment, emotions that many women in similar situations can understand and relate to.

Sherri Shepherd’s Perimenopause Challenges

Shepherd humorously described her anatomy as “playing tricks” on her. Among her most frustrating symptoms were hot flashes, chin hair growth, and even dental issues. She lamented losing a tooth due to hormonal changes, jokingly naming it “Queen Latootha” and expressing concerns about being left with “nothing but gums” by the time menopause arrives.

Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can indeed impact oral health. Decreased estrogen levels can lead to sensitive teeth, gum inflammation, and even osteoporosis-related jaw recession. These changes highlight the importance of maintaining regular dental care during this phase.

Another surprising aspect Shepherd shared was the persistence of fertility during perimenopause. She humorously recounted a scenario where she might have to inform a romantic partner about a potential pregnancy scare — a situation she thought she had left behind in earlier years.

“My anatomy is still playing tricks on me. Like, every time I go to the doctor, and I think we’ve got it figured out, something else comes up,” Shepherd said on the March 27 episode of Sherri. She explained that she’s been getting hot flashes and assumed she was going through menopause — but shared that “my doctor gave me the most shocking news: She told me I was in perimenopause.”

“When she said perimenopause, I thought that she meant I was being very demure and mindful — in perimenopause — because I thought I was handling menopause well,” The View alum, 57, said.

Symptoms of Perimenopause

Shepherd’s experiences align with common symptoms reported by women during perimenopause. These include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood changes and irritability
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Sleep disturbances
• Decreased energy levels
• Weight fluctuations

Some women also experience vaginal dryness, bladder issues, bone loss, or changes in cholesterol levels during this phase. While these symptoms can be challenging, they are part of the natural transition toward menopause.

The Importance of Awareness and Support

Shepherd’s openness about perimenopause underscores the need for increased awareness and education about this phase of life. Many women are unaware of what perimenopause entails until they experience its symptoms firsthand. As Dr. Jessica Shepherd, an OB-GYN, explains, it is crucial to listen to women’s experiences rather than relying solely on lab results when diagnosing and treating perimenopause.

Social media platforms like TikTok have also played a role in amplifying discussions around perimenopause. The hashtag #perimenopause has garnered over 457 million views, demonstrating growing interest in understanding this phase.

Managing Perimenopause Symptoms

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for managing perimenopause symptoms, several approaches can help alleviate discomfort:

• Lifestyle Changes: Increasing protein intake, engaging in regular exercise (especially weight training), and maintaining a healthy diet can improve overall well-being.
• Medical Interventions: Some healthcare providers recommend birth control pills containing estrogen to stabilize hormone levels.
• Oral Health Care: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings are essential for mitigating oral health issues caused by hormonal fluctuations.

Sherri Shepherd’s Impactful Message

Through humor and honesty, Sherri Shepherd has brought much-needed attention to the realities of perimenopause. Her story serves as a reminder that this transitional phase is unique for every woman — filled with challenges but also opportunities for self-discovery and growth.

“I don’t know what this is,” she said. “I [have to] hurry up and get to post-menopause because I’m heated and defeated.”

She explained that she’d previously thought she would never have to tell a sexual partner “we need to talk” due to a pregnancy scare, but as she explained, “It turns out, absolutely, I can make that call. I went out with a man… We went out a few times, …, I was like, ‘Get ready sir. I might be calling you soon. We may need to talk.’ “

“There’s just nothing good about it here in this season of my life,” she said. “So ladies don’t let the age fool [you], ‘cause you can still get pregnant.”

By sharing her journey publicly, Shepherd encourages women to embrace their changing bodies while seeking support from healthcare providers and loved ones. Her message is clear: perimenopause may be unpredictable, but it is nothing to be ashamed of — it is simply another chapter in the complex narrative of womanhood.