Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life when her periods stop permanently and she can no longer become pregnant naturally. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. During perimenopause, levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones fluctuate and decline, causing symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, trouble sleeping, and irregular periods.
Every woman experiences menopause differently. The average age for menopause is 51, but it can happen anytime between the ages of 45-55. Menopause is diagnosed when a woman has no menstrual period for 12 consecutive months.
The hormone changes of menopause can produce many signs and symptoms. Here are some of the most common:
The earlier the natural decline of estrogen levels begins, the more severe symptoms may be. Every woman has a different experience with menopause depending on genetics, general health, and lifestyle factors.
The good news about menopause is that there are effective treatment options available to relieve symptoms, protect long-term health, and help women stay energized and thriving through this transition.
The decline in hormones that causes menopausal symptoms can be treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT replaces hormones that the body is no longer making itself, helping to stabilize hormones at healthier levels.
Benefits of HRT include:
With customized HRT treatment guided by frequent lab testing and monitoring, many quality of life benefits are possible for midlife women.
As with any medical therapy, there are some risks to be aware of with hormone replacement. However, for most women under age 60 who start HRT close to menopause onset, the benefits outweigh the risks when used short-term (under 5 years).
Risks depend on the specific type of hormones used, dosage, duration of treatment, method of delivery, health history, and more. It is essential to have an experienced menopause specialist guide treatment based on unique needs and regular medical follow up.
There are various types of treatments that can be used for balancing hormones and relieving menopausal symptoms. Below is an overview of some common options.
The foundation of most menopause treatment plans is HRT, which replenishes estrogen and often progesterone to more youthful levels. This helps stabilize body functions that are regulated by these hormones.
There are many types of hormone therapy delivery methods and dosage forms. The best choice depends on symptom severity, risks and precautions for the individual, and personal preference. Types include:
Estrogen
Progestogens
HRT has the most evidence backing its efficacy and safety when used in appropriate candidates. But it does require medical guidance.
Adjusting lifestyle factors can also help in managing menopausal issues on multiple levels:
Diet
- Eat plenty phytoestrogens (tofu, flax, soy)
- Avoid spicy food if prone to hot flashes
- Eat more yogurt to improve gut microbiome
Exercise
- Helps mood, sleep, weight management
- Yoga reduces stress and anxiety
Healthy habits
- Practice relaxation techniques
- Improve sleep hygiene
- Consider cognitive behavioral therapy for mood or anxiety issues
While not as potent as medications, lifestyle measures have a synergistic role alongside proper medical treatment.
Some additional therapies that may be helpful include:
Evidence is limited on natural remedies, but some women find them beneficial. Always check with a doctor first about any supplements to avoid interactions.
Optimum Hormone Solutions is a menopause specialist clinic providing customized treatment to help women thrive through perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Our certified menopause practitioner skillfully guides patients to the therapies that best fit their needs and goals.
What sets Optimum Hormone Solutions apart is our:
We offer office visits, telemedicine, community lectures, and more. Our menopause expert team empowers women with knowledge and solutions.
The first step is a thorough evaluation of your menopause concerns, symptoms, medical history, and hormones via blood and saliva testing. This gives us a clear picture of what your body needs.
We take time listening and learning about you as an individual. Our holistic menopause doctors develop customized treatment plans you feel good about.
Hormone balancing and nutritional therapies promote optimal wellness during this transition and beyond. We skillfully adjust approaches until you are feeling your best.
Ongoing follow up and communication ensures your treatment plan provides consistent results and safety. You’ll feel informed, understood, and revitalized under our compassionate care.
It is important not to delay seeking evaluation if you have concerning perimenopause or menopause symptoms. Getting proper treatment early can prevent progressive issues over time.
Without treatment, some women struggle daily with severe hot flashes, chronic insomnia, painful sex, recurring UTIs, low mood, memory lapses, and other problematic symptoms for a decade or more. This can greatly impair quality of life.
In addition, the hormone changes of menopause left untreated increase risks for other health conditions later on:
Therefore, it is vital to promptly see a menopause specialist who can accurately evaluate your situation and get indicated treatment started.
Restoring hormones to healthier levels protects your wellbeing both now and in the future. You deserve to feel like your best self!
Optimum Hormone Solutions is here to compassionately guide you to the solutions that help normalize this transition and keep you thriving. Call today to schedule your evaluation.
