Perimenopause and menopause have historically been a secret in our society. Why? Some think it’s due to the cultural stigma surrounding aging and women’s bodies.
For years, there has been a lack of education and open discussion on these topics. At PSC Wellness and Weightloss, we are lifting the curtain and supporting women just like you! So, let’s dive in.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause may begin as early as your mid-30s or as late as your mid-50s. It is generally seven to ten years before menopause, and it is marked by changes in your hormone levels. <
The hormones that were once predictable begin to fluctuate, causing a wide variety of symptoms.
Perimenopause is the transition leading to menopause, marked by the cessation of your period. You reach menopause after going 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle.
As you begin this transition, your ovaries produce fewer hormones, and you’re moving toward the end of your reproductive years. Perimenopause is natural and normal. Yet, for many women, it may come with physical and/or emotional symptoms that disrupt their lives.
Symptoms of Perimenopause
Once estrogen levels start to fall, your body goes into overdrive to adjust to your hormonal changes. How each woman reacts to the hormonal changes is very different. Some may notice few changes other than a missed period, while others may have a more difficult time.
Irregular Periods
Many women note that the first sign of perimenopause is irregular periods. Affectionately called “The Zone of Chaos,” you may notice that your cycles become longer, shorter, heavier, or lighter.
Mood Changes
Women in perimenopause are 40% more likely to develop a major depressive episode compared to their pre-menopause counterparts. Remember the “Zone of Chaos?”
These hormone fluctuations affect your resilience and stress response. This may make it difficult to feel like yourself.
Other common symptoms may include:
- Hot Flashes
- Difficult Sleeping(Insomnia)
- Weight Gain
- Muscle Mass Loss
- Joint Pain
- Mood swings
- Night Sweats
- Vaginal Dryness
- Urinary Urgency
- Low Libido
How Do I Know I Am in Perimenopause?
You may wonder if you can get tested for perimenopause. While there is no test, we can help.
Perimenopause is diagnosed by self-reported symptoms. However, lab work can be helpful in ruling out other issues like thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies.
Treating perimenopause is an individual decision that should be made in collaboration with your health care provider, or someone like Kate, our board-certified Nurse Practitioner and wellness expert.
How Can PSC Help You?
If you are moving through perimenopause or menopause, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with Kate.
She can identify what symptoms or issues concern you most and create a plan to address those issues.
Kate thinks it’s important to look at the “whole person” when working with you because, often, multiple things may contribute to how you feel both physically and emotionally.
She starts with lab work to help identify potential “root cause” issues that you might not even be aware of. For example, if weight gain is a concern, she’ll look at your current lifestyle factors to identify where some adjustments make sense.
Kate may suggest weight loss medication if it makes sense or lab testing to identify potential issues.
Or, if symptoms of low estrogen, like anxiety and brain fog, are affecting your quality of life, Kate looks at your labs and develops a plan that might include replacing estrogen to improve your symptoms.
Treatment options may include dietary and lifestyle modifications, supplements, prescription medications, and hormone therapy. The key is that Kate tailors them to your needs and your goals.
Want to learn more? Call PSC at 316-688-7500 to schedule a consultation with Kate!
