Age often causes changes in women’s bodies in relation to their reproductive health. During this stage of life, perimenopause and menopause are commonly used terms, but what exactly are they? Navigating the transition and finding the best solutions for managing symptoms-whether through hormone therapy or other functional medicine approaches-requires an understanding of these phases.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause refers to the period leading up to menopause. It usually starts in a woman’s 40s but can begin as early as her mid-30s. During this time, estrogen levels begin to fluctuate, and the ovaries gradually reduce their production of hormones like progesterone.
Symptoms of perimenopause can last anywhere from a few months to several years, and they often include:
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes
- Mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
- Decreased libido
- Vaginal dryness
This phase is marked by its unpredictability. You may still experience menstrual cycles, but they will likely be irregular. The hormonal shifts during perimenopause can significantly impact both physical and emotional health.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is defined as the point when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. It signifies the end of a woman’s reproductive years. While it typically occurs in women around the age of 50, menopause can happen earlier or later depending on genetics, lifestyle, or medical conditions.
Once you reach menopause, the ovaries stop releasing eggs, and hormone production drops significantly. Common menopause symptoms often overlap with those of perimenopause but may intensify:
- Persistent hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Thinning hair
- Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
- Bone density loss
- Increased risk of heart disease
Functional Medicine Solutions: Navigating Hormonal Changes
Rather than just treating symptoms, functional medicine emphasizes treating the body as a whole and addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalances.
1. Hormone Therapy and BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy)
Hormone therapy can be an effective solution for balancing estrogen and progesterone levels, especially for women experiencing severe symptoms. One option within functional medicine is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). BHRT uses hormones that are structurally identical to those produced by the body, offering a more natural approach to managing hormonal imbalances during both perimenopause and menopause.
BHRT can alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness while also protecting bone health and potentially reducing the risk of heart disease. Functional medicine practitioners typically customize BHRT based on individual needs, which may include various delivery methods like creams, gels, or patches.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments
Functional medicine emphasizes a holistic approach to perimenopause and menopause by incorporating lifestyle changes to support women’s health. Key lifestyle strategies include:
- Dietary changes: Adopting a nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet can help manage weight gain, improve mood, and stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Exercise: Strength training and low-impact activities like yoga help maintain muscle mass and support bone health.
- Stress management: High cortisol levels can exacerbate symptoms. Incorporating mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation techniques is essential for reducing stress and balancing hormones.
Perimenopause vs. Menopause: Why Does It Matter?
In order to provide more precise treatment, it is important to distinguish between perimenopause and menopause. In contrast to perimenopause, menopause management focuses on maintaining health and wellness over the long term. During this transition, women should focus on women’s health strategies that are tailored to their unique needs.
Take Control of Your Hormonal Health!
Whether you’re in perimenopause or menopause, functional medicine can customize an approach based on your symptoms, including hormone therapy and BHRT. The journey of every woman is unique, and addressing your symptoms holistically can lead to better results.
If you’re ready to take control of your health during perimenopause or menopause, our clinic is here to help. Schedule a consultation today to explore customized functional medicine solutions, including BHRT, to support your hormonal balance and overall well-being.