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Sep 253 min read

The Change: Menopause and Perimenopause

By: Satinder Dhillon-Dougher AGCNP-BC

Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause

Perimenopause and menopause are natural stages in a woman's life that are often misunderstood. It's important to have a clear understanding of these transitions to navigate them with knowledge and ease. Here at Optimal Hormones Medical we assess your hormone levels along with your symptoms to come up with an individualized plan for you, to help navigate this change.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the period leading up to menopause when a woman's body begins to produce less hormones, including testosterone, progesterone and estrogens. This phase can start in a woman's 40s and can last for up to 8-10 years. Common symptoms of perimenopause include irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, and changes in libido.

Menopause

Menopause marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles. It is officially diagnosed after a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period. Menopause typically occurs in a woman's late 40s to early 50s. Symptoms of menopause can include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.

Signs and Symptoms of Menopause:


  • Hot flashes

  • Night sweats

  • Irregular periods

  • Mood swings/depression/anxiety

  • Insomnia

  • Vaginal dryness and/or urinary incontinence

  • Decreased libido

  • Memory problems


These are some of the common signs and symptoms experienced by women going through menopause.

The Benefits of Estrogen in Women's Health




Estrogen is a key hormone in the female body that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. Its benefits extend beyond just reproductive health and impact overall well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the important benefits of estrogen in women's health.



1. Bone Health

Estrogen helps maintain strong and healthy bones by supporting bone density. It plays a vital role in preventing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.

  • Strategies to Maintain Bone Health During Menopause

    • Regular weight-bearing exercises can help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.

    • A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential for bone health. Supplements may be necessary to meet the daily requirements.

    • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help preserve bone density.

2. Heart Health

Estrogen has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system. It helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, improves blood vessel function, and reduces the risk of heart disease in pre- and postmenopausal women.

3. Cognitive Function

Estrogen is also known to have a positive impact on cognitive function. It plays a role in maintaining memory, focus, and overall brain health.

4. Skin Health

Estrogen contributes to skin hydration, elasticity, and overall skin health. It helps delay the signs of aging and promotes a youthful appearance.

5. Mood Regulation

Estrogen plays a role in regulating mood and emotional well-being. Fluctuations in estrogen levels can impact mood, and maintaining balanced estrogen levels is important for mental health.


If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of menopause or perimenopause, please reach out to us at Optimal Hormones Medical, our contact information is listed below:

Phone: 602-595-0050




References:

  1. Arjmandi, B. H. (2014). The role of estrogen in maintaining bone health. Therapeutic advances in musculoskeletal disease, 6(3), 97-104.

  2. "Menopause." The North American Menopause Society. https://www.menopause.org/for-women/menopauseflashes/menopause-symptoms-and-treatments/what-is-menopause

  3. Mikkola, T. S., & Clarkson, T. B. (2006). Estrogen replacement therapy, atherosclerosis, and vascular function. Cardiovascular research, 53(3), 605-619.

  4. Miller, M. M., & Keane, J. (2014). Cognitive effects of estrogen replacement therapy in women. Neurology, 83(6), 545-549.

  5. North American Menopause Society. (2010). Management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women: 2010 position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause, 17(1), 25-54. Link

  6. "Perimenopause." Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/perimenopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20354666

  7. Raine-Fenning, N. J., & Brincat, M. P. (2019). Skin aging and menopause: implications for treatment. American journal of clinical dermatology, 20(5), 671-680.

  8. Sherwin, B. B. (2012). Estrogen and cognitive functioning in women: lessons we have learned. Behavioral neuroscience, 126(1), 123-127.

  9. Smith, B. J., & Smith, T. L. (2018). Menopause and Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis International, 29(3), 627-632. Link


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