Beth Behrs, star of the CBS sitcom The Neighborhood, recently revealed her experience with perimenopause, a topic often overlooked for women in their 30s. Behrs, who turns 39 this month, shared with Glamour magazine that her symptoms were initially dismissed by doctors, particularly male doctors, who told her she was “too young” to be experiencing perimenopause. This dismissal underscores a common issue in women’s health, where symptoms are sometimes attributed to age rather than underlying medical conditions.
Behrs’ journey began after the birth of her daughter with husband Michael Gladis. She experienced nighttime hot flashes, initially mistaking them for fevers. These were accompanied by insomnia, heavy periods, extreme fatigue, and weight gain, despite maintaining her regular exercise routine and healthy diet. Behrs underwent multiple medical examinations, including ultrasounds, but was repeatedly assured that she was “fine.”
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Behrs described the impact of her symptoms on her daily life, sharing that her stomach inflammation was so severe she couldn’t even button her jeans at work. The Mayo Clinic defines perimenopause as the transitional period leading up to menopause, characterized by symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, and mood swings. While typically beginning in a woman’s 40s, perimenopause can start in the 30s for some women.
It was a conversation with a costume designer on the set of The Neighborhood that finally led Behrs to consider perimenopause as a possible explanation for her symptoms. The validation from another woman, coupled with her own research, prompted Behrs to seek further medical advice. Eventually, she received a diagnosis that confirmed her suspicions. While not joyful, the diagnosis provided a sense of relief, finally giving her answers to the debilitating symptoms she had been experiencing. She now manages her symptoms with estrogen supplements and birth control pills.
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Behrs’ decision to publicly share her story stems from a desire to help other women feel less alone in their experiences with perimenopause. She emphasizes the importance of open communication and advocating for one’s own health. Behrs acknowledges that while the diagnosis initially brought no joy, understanding the root cause of her symptoms was ultimately comforting. She still experiences occasional hot flashes and brain fog but now understands the reason behind them.
Reflecting on her journey, Behrs expressed greater happiness and empowerment at almost 40 compared to her younger years. She embraces aging and the changes it brings, focusing on self-acceptance and empowering other women. Behrs encourages women to speak openly about hormonal changes and seek support, reminding them they are not alone in this journey. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to one’s body and advocating for proper medical care.
