My Journey: Masking and Unmasking
Menopause, ADHD Life Charlotte Shimko Menopause, ADHD Life Charlotte Shimko

My Journey: Masking and Unmasking

For years, I shaped myself into who I thought I was supposed to be—masking every part of myself to fit in. My late ADHD diagnosis and perimenopause shattered that illusion, forcing me to unmask and rediscover who I truly am. Read my journey through self-discovery, grief, and ultimately, freedom.

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The Overlooked Link: Why ADHD and Menopause Need to Be Studied Together
ADHD Life, Menopause Charlotte Shimko ADHD Life, Menopause Charlotte Shimko

The Overlooked Link: Why ADHD and Menopause Need to Be Studied Together

Many women experience a sudden increase in ADHD symptoms during perimenopause and menopause, yet the connection between hormonal shifts and ADHD remains largely unstudied. As estrogen levels fluctuate, executive function, mood regulation, and focus can all worsen—leading some women to receive an ADHD diagnosis for the first time in midlife. Without research that examines ADHD and menopause together, women are left struggling to manage their symptoms without proper support. It’s time to bridge the gap and advocate for better awareness, diagnosis, and treatment.

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What is: Hysterectomy?
Menopause, Foundational Concept Charlotte Shimko Menopause, Foundational Concept Charlotte Shimko

What is: Hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus, often performed for conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or gynecologic cancers. While it can provide relief from pain and heavy bleeding, it also has long-term effects on hormone levels, bone health, and emotional well-being. Learn about the types of hysterectomy, recovery, and what to expect after surgery.

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What is: Postmenopause?
Menopause, Foundational Concept Charlotte Shimko Menopause, Foundational Concept Charlotte Shimko

What is: Postmenopause?

Postmenopause begins after a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, marking the end of the menopausal transition. While symptoms like hot flashes may decrease, long-term health considerations such as bone density, cardiovascular health, and metabolism become more important. Understanding how to support your body in this phase can help women maintain vitality and longevity.

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Did You Know? ADHD and Menopause Are Connected
ADHD Life, Menopause Charlotte Shimko ADHD Life, Menopause Charlotte Shimko

Did You Know? ADHD and Menopause Are Connected

Menopause doesn’t just bring hot flashes and sleep disturbances—it can also make ADHD symptoms worse. Estrogen plays a key role in dopamine regulation, which impacts focus, memory, and emotional regulation. As hormone levels fluctuate during perimenopause and menopause, many women with ADHD experience worsening brain fog, emotional sensitivity, and executive dysfunction. The good news? Understanding the connection between ADHD and menopause can help you develop strategies to regain focus, manage emotions, and thrive in midlife.

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What is: Menopause?
Menopause, Foundational Concept Charlotte Shimko Menopause, Foundational Concept Charlotte Shimko

What is: Menopause?

Menopause is the transition marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years, occurring after 12 consecutive months without a period. It brings hormonal shifts that affect sleep, mood, brain function, and long-term health. Understanding menopause can help women navigate this phase with confidence and informed choices.

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The Bottom Line: Why Supporting Perimenopausal Women Is Crucial for Business Success
Menopause, Woman's Health, Coaching Charlotte Shimko Menopause, Woman's Health, Coaching Charlotte Shimko

The Bottom Line: Why Supporting Perimenopausal Women Is Crucial for Business Success

Perimenopause remains a taboo topic in many workplaces, yet its impact on employee productivity and well-being is undeniable. Companies that support perimenopausal women see improved retention, reduced absenteeism, and stronger workplace morale. Learn why investing in menopause-friendly policies is a business advantage.

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My Journey: Perimenopause, From Dismissal to Empowerment
ADHD Life, Menopause, Woman's Health Charlotte Shimko ADHD Life, Menopause, Woman's Health Charlotte Shimko

My Journey: Perimenopause, From Dismissal to Empowerment

Perimenopause symptoms can be confusing and often dismissed. My experience with heavy bleeding, hormonal fluctuations, and ADHD led me to advocate for myself through multiple medical opinions until I finally got answers. Learn how I discovered the link between ADHD, perimenopause, and adenomyosis—and how you can advocate for yourself too.

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Did You Know? Perimenopause Can Mess with Your Memory
Menopause Charlotte Shimko Menopause Charlotte Shimko

Did You Know? Perimenopause Can Mess with Your Memory

You expect hot flashes and night sweats with perimenopause, but what about brain fog, memory lapses, and mental sluggishness? Many women feel frustrated and even scared when they start forgetting words mid-sentence or struggling to focus at work. The good news? These cognitive changes are normal—and with the right strategies, you can regain clarity and confidence.

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What is: Perimenopause?
Menopause, Foundational Concept Charlotte Shimko Menopause, Foundational Concept Charlotte Shimko

What is: Perimenopause?

Did you know that nearly half of women don’t realize they’re in perimenopause until symptoms disrupt their daily lives? Mood swings, brain fog, and exhaustion are often mistaken for stress or aging—but declining estrogen plays a major role. Perimenopause is a key hormonal transition that can last up to a decade, affecting mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall well-being. Learn the science behind perimenopause, why it’s misunderstood, and how coaching can help you adapt and thrive during this phase of life.

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