Perimenopause signifies the beginning of the decline in ovarian function. Estrogen and progesterone, the primary female sex hormones, start their erratic fluctuations before ultimately dropping to lower levels. This hormonal shift disrupts the menstrual cycle, leading to changes in frequency, flow, and predictability. However, the timing of this hormonal shift varies significantly among women.

Perimenopause marks a period of significant change for women. While hot flashes and night sweats often steal the spotlight, a silent disease process lurks in the background - bone loss. This gradual weakening of bones can lead to increased risk of fractures later in life, making understanding and addressing it a crucial aspect of perimenopausal health.

If you want to be proactive about optimizing your health in perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause, there are key lab tests to request that any healthcare practitioner can order. There is nothing more critical than understanding what is going on in your body to make the best choices for your future self.

Often times, women are reluctant to share their concerns about menopausal symptoms out of fear of being misunderstood or manipulated into thinking this is a normal phase of life and they must deal with it. The Menopause Society provides guidance on how to initiate the discussion with your own practitioner.

Menopause Hormone therapy (MHT) is one of the FDA-approved treatments for relief of symptoms related to menopause. These symptoms, caused by lower levels of estrogen before and after menopause, include hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness. MHT is also approved for the prevention of osteoporosis (bone loss). This post discusses types of available basic MHT and the risks/benefits.

Perimenopause, the transitional period leading up to menopause, is a time of significant change for women. While physical symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats are well-known, the emotional fluctuations many women experience can be equally disruptive. Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even depression can become unwelcome companions during this phase. Understanding the hormonal basis of these changes and exploring strategies to manage them can empower women to navigate this emotional upheaval.

Perimenopause, the transitional period leading up to menopause, can usher in a wave of physical and emotional changes. One of the most common and concerning complaints for many women is a decline in memory function. Frequently forgetting names, misplaced keys, and difficulty concentrating become unwelcome companions, leading to frustration and anxiety. While these experiences can be unsettling, it's important to understand the potential causes and explore strategies to navigate this foggy period.

Perimenopause, the years leading up to menopause, can be a whirlwind of hormonal changes. One of the most disruptive impacts can be on sleep, leaving women struggling with insomnia. Fragmented sleep, difficulty falling asleep, and waking up frequently during the night become unwelcome companions. While the hormonal fluctuations are undeniable, there are steps you can take to combat insomnia and reclaim a good night's rest.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a frequent foe for women, and their prevalence increases significantly after menopause. Declining estrogen levels during this transition can lead to a weakened urinary tract defense system, making women more susceptible to these uncomfortable infections. However, vaginal estrogen can be a powerful weapon in the fight against UTIs.