Beth Behrs, well-known for her comedic role in 2 Broke Girls, recently revealed a difficult and frustrating journey to getting diagnosed with perimenopause. The actress, now approaching her 39th birthday, shared her experience of being repeatedly dismissed by doctors who insisted she was “too young” to be facing this transitional phase to menopause. Her story shines a light on the persistent issue of women’s health symptoms being overlooked or minimized, particularly when it comes to hormonal changes.
Unexplained Symptoms After Childbirth
A year after giving birth to her daughter, Emma George, Beth Behrs began noticing symptoms that didn’t quite add up. She frequently woke in the middle of the night with sensations she initially thought were fevers. “It felt like a sunburn spreading up my entire body,” she explained. These episodes were not typical night sweats or fevers but left her restless and struggling with severe insomnia.
In addition to disrupted sleep, Behrs faced heavy periods, overwhelming fatigue, and unexplained weight gain despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Her stomach would become so bloated that she could barely button her jeans while on set. These symptoms left her frustrated and confused.
Dismissed by Doctors
Despite experiencing classic perimenopause symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular periods, Behrs’ concerns were consistently dismissed by medical professionals, particularly male doctors. “They told me, ‘You’re too young for perimenopause,’” she recounted. But deep down, Behrs knew that something was not right.
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Perimenopause, which is the stage leading up to menopause, typically begins for women in their 40s, but it can start as early as the 30s. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms can include night sweats, hot flashes, fatigue, and changes in menstrual patterns.
A Chance Conversation Leads to Answers
After countless medical visits and feeling like she was hitting a wall, Behrs finally found some clarity through an unexpected source. A conversation with a costume designer on the set of The Neighborhood introduced her to the possibility of perimenopause being the cause of her symptoms. This revelation, while not joyful, brought a sense of relief. “It was comforting to finally have answers and to know it wasn’t something more serious,” she said.
Once diagnosed, Behrs began a treatment plan that included estrogen supplements and birth control pills to manage her symptoms. Although she still occasionally deals with brain fog and hot flashes, she now understands the root cause.
Breaking the Silence and Empowering Women
Beth Behrs is speaking out about her experience to help other women who may be struggling with similar issues. Her goal is to shed light on perimenopause, especially for those who may not realise it can start in their 30s. She hopes her story will encourage more women to advocate for themselves and seek answers when they feel their health concerns are being dismissed.
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“Knowing you’re not alone is powerful,” Behrs said. “If sharing my story helps other women recognise these changes and get the help they need, then it’s worth it.”
Finding Empowerment Through Age
In addition to discussing her health struggles, Behrs reflected on her journey toward self-acceptance. She shared how, despite past challenges with disordered eating, she feels far happier and more empowered at nearly 40 than she did in her 20s. “I wish I had the voice and confidence I have now back when I was younger,” she admitted.
Embracing her age and the changes that come with it, Behrs encourages other women to do the same. “I can see the changes in my face and body whenever I watch 2 Broke Girls reruns. But I’m owning who I am now, and that’s empowering.”
Beth Behrs’ candid story highlights the importance of listening to women’s health concerns and challenges outdated assumptions about age and hormonal changes. By sharing her experience, she’s helping to ensure that more women feel validated, supported, and less alone.