Menopause

What is menopause?

Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life when her periods stop permanently and she is no longer able to become pregnant. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. This transition time brings physical and emotional changes as the woman's body adjusts to shifting hormone levels.

Some key things to know:

• On average, women go through menopause around age 51. Perimenopause usually starts in the 40s. But every woman is different.


• As the ovaries produce less estrogen, women may experience symptoms like hot flashes, trouble sleeping, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. Lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help ease discomfort.


• Postmenopause begins when it's been 12 straight months without a period. At this point, the drop in estrogen accelerates bone loss. Getting sufficient calcium and vitamin D can help promote bone health.


• Heart disease risk increases after menopause. It's vital that women focus on heart-healthy habits like not smoking, eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and managing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

As a woman approaches this transition, understanding what to expect and addressing any concerns with her healthcare provider can help her stay optimally healthy. Staying active, connecting with supportive friends and family, and finding coping strategies that work for her unique situation can also make a big difference.

Our compassionate providers at Hormone Harmony offer customized care for perimenopausal and menopausal women. We provide thorough lab testing and then develop personalized treatment plans which may include bioidentical hormone therapy, supplements, prescription medications, nutrition planning, or holistic therapies to help alleviate unpleasant symptoms. We're here to listen and help you thrive during this change!