PERIMENOPAUSE AND MENOPAUSE
A woman may start to experience signs and symptoms of hormonal deficiency in her mid-30’s. The most common causes of hormonal imbalance in women is perimenopause and menopause.
Perimenopause is the time when a woman transitions into menopause and marks the end of her reproductive years. This transitional period can last anywhere from 2-10 years. During this time, the production of estrogen and progesterone decreases. Levels of estrogen begin to increase and decrease in an uneven fashion leading to changes in the menstrual cycle and symptoms that can affect one’s quality of life.
Menopause results with the loss of ovarian follicular function and a decline in serum blood levels of estrogen. Menopause can also result following surgeries that involve removal of both ovaries, and medical interventions that cause cessation of ovarian function. Onset of menopause most often occurs in the 40’s-50’s. One is considered “in Menopause” when there is absence of a period for a full twelve months.
SYMPTOMS OF PERIMENOPAUSE/MENOPAUSE MAY BE:
- Irritability
- Depression
- Weight gain
- Abdominal fat
- Hair loss
- Decreased muscle strength and bone density
- Heavy periods/irregular periods
- Vaginal dryness
- Decreased libido or sexual desire
- Trouble with sleep/Night sweats
- Hot Flashes
- Mental fogginess/short-term memory issues
- Headaches
- Fatigue and lack of energy
BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY (BHRT)
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a treatment option to restore hormonal balance and address the symptoms that result from hormonal imbalance. BHRT are hormone compounds that are chemically identical to those produced in the body and have fewer potential side effects than synthetic hormones. The goal of BHRT is to restore hormonal balance in a safe, effective manner.
Clients will be 30 years of age or older unless there is documented clinical evidence of hormonal deficiency.
COMMON BENEFITS OF BHRT:
- Improved energy levels
- Improved mental clarity and memory
- Improved mood
- Improved libido and sexual desire
- Improved skin and nails
- Decreased body fat and improved muscle tone
- Improved sleep and quality of sleep
- Decreased hot flashes
- Decreased anxiety