As you approach your 40s, you might start to notice subtle changes in your body and mood that seem a bit out of the ordinary. This is a natural part of aging called perimenopause, a transition phase before menopause.
During perimenopause, the body experiences significant hormonal shifts. These changes can start as early as your mid-30s but are more common in your 40s. During this time, the ovaries gradually decrease estrogen production, which can lead to many different physical and emotional symptoms.
Sometimes these symptoms (which can include mood swings, weight gain, night sweats, and more) can be extremely difficult to manage alone and can negatively impact your quality of life.
Luckily, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can improve your symptoms by restoring hormonal balance in your body.
What are the Symptoms of Perimenopause?
Perimenopause can cause a range of difficult symptoms due to fluctuating hormone levels. Some common symptoms include:
- Mood swings and irritability
- Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort
- Decreased libido
- Fatigue and sleep disturbances
- Thinning hair and dry skin
- Difficulty concentrating or memory lapses
- Increased frequency of urinary tract infections
How is Perimenopause Different From Menopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, marked by fluctuating hormone levels and the gradual decline of estrogen production. It can last for several years.
Menopause, on the other hand, is defined as the point when you have not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, signaling the end of reproductive capability. While perimenopause involves hormonal changes and symptoms, menopause represents the conclusion of these changes, marking a new phase in your life without menstrual periods.
How Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Help
HRT is a treatment option designed to alleviate the symptoms of hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause. By replenishing the body’s estrogen and sometimes progesterone levels, HRT helps restore balance and relieve your uncomfortable symptoms. The therapy can be tailored to your specific needs, offering various methods of administration such as pills, patches, gels, creams, or subcutaneous pellets (pellets placed under the skin that dissolve over time).
The Benefits of HRT Include:
- Enhanced mood stability and reduced anxiety
- Significant relief from hot flashes and night sweats
- Improved vaginal health and reduced discomfort
- Protection against osteoporosis and bone loss
- Increased skin elasticity and reduced wrinkles
- Lower risk of heart disease after menopause
- Improved overall quality of life and energy levels
- More restful and uninterrupted sleep
HRT offers a way to manage the challenging symptoms of perimenopause, improving your well-being.
Signs You Might Benefit From HRT
If you identify with any of the below symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional can help you determine if HRT is the right option to improve your quality of life during perimenopause:
- If you experience hot flashes and night sweats that occur frequently and are intense enough to disturb your sleep and daily activities
- When mood swings become severe and start affecting your relationships or cause feelings of anxiety and depression
- If your menstrual cycles become irregular or excessively heavy, making it difficult to manage daily life
- Persistent vaginal dryness that leads to discomfort or pain during intercourse
- If you’re struggling with constant fatigue or sleep disturbances that leave you feeling exhausted
- When you notice difficulty concentrating, frequent memory lapses, or mental fog affecting your work performance
- A noticeable decrease in sexual desire or interest, impacting your intimate relationships
- If you have a family history of osteoporosis or early signs of bone loss
- If you are at risk for heart disease and are concerned about increased cardiovascular risks post-menopause
Get Help with Perimenopause
Navigating perimenopause can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. HRT with Her Way offers personalized solutions to help you manage symptoms and transition smoothly through this stage of life. Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or significant disruptions, the right support can make a world of difference.
