Perimenopause Is Like Reverse Puberty
I spend time with 35+ year old patients going through what is happening during this stage of life.
Perimenopause is the transition phase of declining reproductive hormones. It usually starts in the mid-40’s, but can be earlier. There is so much that can be done during these years!
In early perimenopause the estrogen levels may increase and progesterone decreases. This can lead to heavier and longer menstrual flow, mood changes, and agitation which is due to estrogen dominance. There is also the case where estrogen doesn’t necessarily change, but the progesterone levels drop and mimics estrogen dominance as well.
This time can seem like a roller coaster where some months may seem “normal” and other months not so much.
During later Perimenopause a woman may notice cycles becoming shorter in length or frequency.
Addressing perimenopause can help reduce risk of cardiovascular and stroke risk, sleep disturbances, and anxiety/depression to name a few.
Addressing the hormone fluctuations in the the perimenopause years can also help how one responds to menopause.
𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗼𝗽𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲:
1-2x/day bowel movements
Address gut health
Stress management
Key nutrients - B vitamins, vitamin C, minerals: selenium, zinc, magnesium/manganese
Reduce Inflammation
Support liver detox
Insulin control (cgm, a1c, fasting insulin)
Adequate Protein
Weight training
Limit Caffeine
Reduce alcohol
Adequate sleep
Key supplements may be needed
e.g. phosphatidylserine, vitex, dhea, DIM
Bioidentical hormones like progesterone and testosterone may be helpful too!
*not medical advice, always consult with your provider.