In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in an alternative to conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal symptoms and other hormone-related conditions: Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). But what exactly are bioidentical hormones, and how do they work? This article seeks to shed light on these questions, drawing insights from several reputable sources.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, often abbreviated as BHRT, involves the use of hormones that are chemically identical to those the human body naturally produces. The molecular structure is the key differentiation between bioidentical and synthetic hormones used in traditional HRT. While synthetic hormones might be similar, they aren’t an exact match to the body’s hormones. Bioidentical hormones, on the other hand, have a molecular structure identical to endogenous hormones.
BHRT has been presented as a personalized approach to hormone replacement. Based on individual hormonal needs, custom-compounded formulations can be prepared, providing tailored therapy to each patient. This promises a more harmonized integration with the body’s hormonal system, thereby offering a more balanced and effective treatment.
What are Bioidentical Hormones?
At their core, bioidentical hormones are derived from plant estrogens that are chemically and structurally identical to hormones produced by the human body. The most common sources include soy and yam. These plant-derived hormones are then processed in a laboratory to replicate the structure of human endogenous hormones.
The main hormones replaced in BHRT for women include:
Estrogen
A vital hormone for women, it regulates many bodily functions beyond reproductive health, including bone health, brain function, and the cardiovascular system.
Progesterone: This hormone works in tandem with estrogen, playing a critical role in regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting pregnancy.
Testosterone: Although primarily considered a male hormone, women also produce testosterone in smaller quantities. It plays a role in bone strength, brain function, and the development of lean muscle mass.
For men, testosterone replacement is the main focus, as it influences a range of functions from bone density to muscle mass to libido to overall mood.
It’s crucial to understand that not all bioidentical hormones are custom-compounded or personalized. There are FDA-approved bioidentical hormones available in standard doses, offering a more controlled and consistent option for those wary of custom compounding.
How Do Bioidentical Hormones Work?
The human endocrine system is a finely tuned machine. When certain hormone levels dip—due to aging, illness, or other factors—it can throw the entire system off balance. This imbalance can lead to a myriad of symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain, sleep disturbances, and more.
the body’s hormones would. This is because their molecular structure is identical, allowing them to bind to the same receptors and exert the same physiological effects.
while BHRT can be transformative for some, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Hormonal needs can vary dramatically from person to person. As such, a comprehensive evaluation, including thorough testing of hormone levels, is essential before embarking on BHRT. This ensures the correct types and amounts of hormones are administered, offering the most beneficial outcomes.
BHRT presents an exciting and promising approach to addressing hormonal imbalances. By utilizing hormones identical in structure to those the body naturally produces, it seeks to offer a more integrated and effective treatment option. However, as with any medical therapy, it’s vital to consult with healthcare professionals and undertake comprehensive testing to ensure it’s the right choice for the individual.
Remember, the landscape of medical knowledge is always evolving. As more research is conducted on bioidentical hormones and their long-term effects, our understanding and the guidelines surrounding their use will likely develop. For now, BHRT stands as a beacon for many seeking relief from the trials of hormonal imbalance
Your body naturally changes as you move through the different stages of life. Understanding these changes can help you navigate them with confidence and care. A transition that many women experience is perimenopause.
Perimenopause is the stage leading up to menopause and is often accompanied by shifts in your menstrual cycle, mood and overall well-being. Knowing when perimenopause typically starts and what to expect can make all the difference in how you manage this chapter.
If you need help recognizing the signs, understanding what’s happening to your body and taking the steps to support your health, here is a simple guide to help you navigate perimenopause.
What Is Perimenopause?
Many women know exactly what menopause is and how they can expect it to affect their bodies, yet not many know about perimenopause. Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, which is when a woman has not experienced a menstrual cycle in over a year.
The most important thing to note about perimenopause is that it is not the same as menopause. The two are different processes with distinctly different effects on the body. Perimenopause can start years before a woman’s final menstrual cycle.
What Are the Signs of Perimenopause?
During perimenopause, estrogen begins declining. Estrogen is one of the reproductive hormones in women, and the decline of this hormone has varying effects on the body. Here are some signs you might be in perimenopause:
Disruption of the menstrual cycle: One of the first signals that your body has entered perimenopause is your menstrual cycle becoming irregular. You may notice that the time between cycles is becoming notably longer or shorter. Your flow might also become lighter or heavier, and the changes can vary monthly. Once you have experienced this symptom, you will likely begin experiencing others.
Increased fatigue: If you’re unexplainably tired and this is not usual for you, you might be entering perimenopause. This is often accompanied by insomnia or altered sleeping patterns.
Mood swings: Mood swings are a common symptom in many areas of women’s reproductive health, and perimenopause is no exception. You might notice you’re more on edge than usual or experiencing agitation at minor inconveniences.
Cognitive issues: Many women experience reduced cognitive functioning when they enter perimenopause. You may notice increased forgetfulness, slight issues speaking and slowed psychomotor speeds.
Reduced libido: Due to the hormone disruptions happening in a woman’s body during perimenopause, you may experience a reduced libido. You may experience no sexual desire, and reaching sexual arousal might become more challenging during this stage.
Incontinence: As women enter perimenopause and estrogen levels drop, their urethral and vaginal tissues soften as their pelvic floors relax. Due to these factors, many women experience bladder incontinence.
Thinning hair: Many women can expect changes to their hair when they enter perimenopause. It is common for women to experience hair and volume loss during perimenopause.
Night sweats: Many women incorrectly identify night sweats with menopause when it is a perimenopausal symptom. If you’re experiencing night sweats and you’re still getting a period — even if it’s irregular — it’s most likely perimenopause.
Hot flashes: This perimenopause symptom is often mistakenly identified as menopause. Categorized by a sudden feeling of heat throughout the body, even in cool weather, a hot flash is a classic perimenopause sign.
So, when does perimenopause start? Although perimenopause can begin as early as your 30s, it typically starts later. Many women will begin experiencing perimenopausal symptoms in their mid to late 40s, many years before their last menstrual cycle. Four years is the median length for perimenopause symptoms, but they can last longer or shorter.
You’re in Perimenopause, Now What?
If you’ve identified that you might be in perimenopause based on your symptoms, you might be wondering what to do next. You can do a few things to help you feel more comfortable during this time:
Dress in layers: Layering is a great way to mitigate the hot flash issue. Doing this allows you to remove layers when you become hot and then add them back on when your temperature returns to normal.
Log your hot flashes: It might seem odd to write down whenever you have a hot flash and what preceded it, but it might help you identify the trigger of your hot flashes. Doing this will help you lessen your chances of experiencing a hot flash.
Get your vitamins in: Due to hormonal changes, you will be lacking in some vitamins, so eat a vitamin-rich diet or take supplements to boost your vitamin intake each day. This will help you recover from exercise faster, bring down your cholesterol levels and lower your risk of heart disease.
Exercise regularly: As you enter perimenopause, your body is slowly ridding itself of hormones that keep you strong and healthy, so maintaining a regular exercise routine will ensure that your muscles and bones stay healthy.
Consult a doctor: Although you may identify with many of these symptoms, you cannot be sure you have entered perimenopause until you consult a medical professional. If you suspect you’re in perimenopause, make an appointment to see your doctor so they can confirm it.
The Final Flash
Perimenopause is a natural part of aging, but that doesn’t mean you have to navigate it without support. Understanding when it starts and recognizing the symptoms can help you approach this phase with confidence. You can ease the transition and continue feeling your best by making thoughtful lifestyle changes. Remember, your body is shifting into a new season, and with the right care, you can thrive through it.
About the author: Beth Rush
Beth is the fitness editor at Body+Mind. She writes about how women with PCOS can hack their exercise routines to balance hormones naturally. Shecovers topics like plant-based recipes for athletes and preaching the benefits of green exercise. You can find Beth on Twitter @bodymindmag.
As you approach your 40s, your body begins preparing for one of life’s significant transitions —- menopause. However, before you reach that milestone, you may start to experience symptoms. This is perimenopause — the transitional phase leading up to the big M. Learn more about it and how long you can expect it to last.
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause means “around menopause.” It’s a transitional period that occurs when estrogen production in the ovaries gradually begins to decline, marking the natural progression toward menopause.
Perimenopause is characterized by fluctuating hormone levels and irregular cycles. During this time, your body undergoes various changes as it adapts to these changes.
When Does Perimenopause Typically Begin?
Most women notice perimenopausal symptoms as early as three to seven years before amenorrhea — the last menarche. The average age of a woman’s last menstrual cycle is around age 51 in the U.S., meaning you might start experiencing perimenopause in your 40s, though some women notice changes as early as their mid-30s.
Every person’s journey is unique — influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle and overall health. However, when symptoms begin earlier than the typical range, a blood test is done to rule out conditions that sometimes present as perimenopause, such as thyroid abnormality.
Common Signs and Symptoms You Might Experience
Recognizing the first signs of perimenopause can help you prepare for the changes. Common symptoms include:
Irregular Menstrual Cycles
Your periods may become unpredictable — longer, shorter, heavier or lighter. This irregularity is often the first sign you’re in perimenopause, especially if you’ve had regular menses over the decades.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
You might suddenly feel intense warmth spreading through your upper body, accompanied by sweating and a flushed face. These episodes can last from a few seconds to several minutes and disrupt sleep when they occur at night. Up to 15% of perimenopausal women experience severe hot flashes that interfere with daily functions.
Sleep Disturbances
Changes in your sleep patterns are common during perimenopause. You might have trouble falling asleep, wake up frequently during the night or experience night sweats that interfere with restful slumber.
Mood Changes
Hormonal fluctuations significantly affect your emotions, causing mood imbalances. During perimenopause, you might experience high irritability, anxiety and mood swings. It feels just like premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and affects about four in 10 women, with some also reporting feelings of depression.
These emotional changes are natural responses to hormonal shifts and life transitions. However, discuss severe mood changes with your healthcare provider.
Physical Changes
Your body undergoes various physical changes during this time, too. Weight gain, particularly around your midsection, is typical. You might notice thinning hair, drier skin and breast tenderness. These symptoms are related to your body’s shifting hormonal landscape.
Cognitive Changes
Many women report experiencing “brain fog” during perimenopause. You might notice slight changes in memory or concentration. These cognitive changes are typically temporary and related to hormonal fluctuations.
How to Manage Perimenopause Symptoms
While perimenopause is a natural process, its symptoms can impact the quality of life. The most commonly used strategies to help manage discomfort and maintain health as you go through this period include:
Hormonal and Nonhormonal Therapies
Hormone replacement therapy is an option. This can include low-dose birth control pills or vaginal estrogen. The choice of treatment depends on your specific symptoms and medical history.
Several non hormonal options also exist for managing perimenopause symptoms. These include prescription medications for specific symptoms, over-the-counter lubricants for vaginal dryness and natural supplements.
Balanced Diet
Your nutritional needs evolve during perimenopause, and certain dietary choices can significantly impact your symptoms. Spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine trigger or exacerbate perimenopausal symptoms like hot flashes.
Nutrient-dense foods rich in calcium, vitamin D and phytoestrogens support hormonal balance. Complex carbohydrates can help stabilize mood and energy levels, while foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help with cognitive function and mood regulation.
Hydration
Fluctuating hormones affect metabolic processes, diminishing your body’s ability to maintain adequate hydration levels. This increases the risk of dehydration. Dark yellow urine, constipation, headaches, fatigue and confusion are common signs of dehydration.
Other than drinking enough water a day, many hydrating fruits and vegetables contain 80%-96% water, like cucumbers, lettuce and oranges. Interestingly, mushrooms contain as much water as watermelons, making them an excellent addition to meals for hydration support.
Regular Exercise
Strength training, yoga and cardio improve mood and bone health. While it’s recommended that you work out for at least 150 minutes each week, you may need to adjust your intensity or incorporate more rest days. Listen to your body and modify your activities accordingly.
Managed Stress
Meditation, deep breathing and self-care routines reduce anxiety. During this transition, engaging in mentally stimulating activities, maintaining social connections and practicing mindfulness can help support mental health, emotional well-being and cognitive function. Some women find that keeping a journal or using organizational tools helps them stay focused and track their symptoms, effectively lowering stress.
Better Sleep
Quality sleep becomes especially crucial during perimenopause, yet it’s often one of the most challenging things to maintain. Sleep disturbances create a cascade effect, impacting physical health, mood, cognitive abilities and overall well-being. Creating a consistent sleep routine can help regulate your body’s natural rhythms. Consider keeping your bedroom cool and dark, as this can help minimize night sweats and their impact on your sleep.
What About Alternative and Complementary Therapies?
Many women explore complementary therapies during perimenopause. Acupuncture might help with hot flashes and mood changes, while aromatherapy can support relaxation and sleep. Herbal remedies like black cohosh or evening primrose oil are popular choices, though scientific evidence for their effectiveness varies.
To be safe, always consult your health care provider before starting alternative treatments — herbal or otherwise. They’ll run a quick test to ensure the regimen won’t interact with any medications or treatments you’re on.
How Long Does Perimenopause Last?
The duration of perimenopause varies significantly among women. On average, this transition lasts about four years but can be as short as a few months or as long as 10 years. You’ve officially reached menopause when you’ve gone a whole year without a menstrual period.
Embrace the Transition
Perimenopause is a significant part of a woman’s life, but it doesn’t have to be a negative experience. By staying informed and maintaining open communication with health care providers, you can confidently transition through perimenopause with grace.
Remember, your experience is valid, and there are readily available resources and professionals to help you through this natural life transition.
About the author: Beth Rush
Beth is the fitness editor at Body+Mind. She writes about how women with PCOS can hack their exercise routines to balance hormones naturally. Shecovers topics like plant-based recipes for athletes and preaching the benefits of green exercise. You can find Beth on Twitter @bodymindmag.
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, marking the end of her reproductive years. While it’s a universal experience, the symptoms and challenges associated with it can vary widely. In recent years, many women have turned to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to alleviate these symptoms. As the conversation around menopause becomes more open, Hollywood celebrities have started sharing their personal experiences, shedding light on the benefits and challenges of HRT.
Michelle Obama and HRT: A Personal Journey
Former First Lady Michelle Obama is among the prominent figures who have openly discussed their menopause experiences. When she began experiencing symptoms, she sought more information but found a lack of comprehensive resources. After consulting with her doctors and friends in the medical field, she decided to start hormone replacement therapy, particularly to address her hot flashes. In a People magazine interview, she highlighted the evolving understanding of HRT, noting that while earlier studies painted hormones in a negative light, recent research suggests there are benefits to hormone replacement therapy for women. Read more
Angelina Jolie’s Early Menopause and HRT Experience
Another celebrity who has been candid about her menopause journey is Angelina Jolie. Due to a higher risk for breast and ovarian cancer, stemming from the BRCA1 genetic mutation and a family history of cancer, Jolie underwent preventative surgeries. These included a double mastectomy and the removal of her ovaries and fallopian tubes. These surgeries led her into what is termed as “surgical menopause.”
To combat the symptoms of this premature menopause, Angelina Jolie turned to hormone replacement therapy. HRT can be particularly beneficial for women like Jolie who experience surgical menopause, helping to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and bone loss. HRT works by replenishing the levels of female hormones, like estrogen and progesterone, which drop due to menopause. For some, the benefits of HRT can be felt in as little as 1-7 days for estrogen and progesterone, while testosterone might take around 4 weeks.
Jolie’s experience underscores the importance of individualized care. Every woman’s journey with menopause is unique, and treatments like HRT should be tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
Drew Barrymore and Gayle King: Embracing Menopause
In a candid CBS interview, Drew Barrymore and Gayle King shared their personal journeys with menopause. Barrymore spoke about her realization of entering perimenopause, while King discussed the challenges of hot flashes. Both emphasized the importance of understanding and embracing this natural phase of life. Interestingly, despite the challenges they faced, both chose not to undergo hormone therapy. Their conversation not only highlighted the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause but also addressed societal perceptions. As King aptly put it, menopause doesn’t signify the end of a woman’s life but a new stage to be embraced and celebrated.
Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women
Hormone replacement therapy essentially replaces the estrogen (and sometimes progesterone) that the body stops producing after menopause. It can alleviate many menopausal symptoms and is available in various forms, including tablets, injections, patches, and creams. While there has been controversy around HRT due to potential breast cancer risks, current evidence suggests that only specific forms may raise this risk, and it varies based on several factors.
Is HRT Right for You?
Every woman’s experience with menopause is unique. If you’re considering HRT, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s the right choice for you. Symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, hair loss, mood swings, and decreased sex drive can be indicators that HRT might be beneficial. However, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits before making a decision. Contact our team of experts at Joi if you’re curious about the benefits of HRT.
Depending on type of regimen chosen, HRT can take up to one year to see full benefits.
Could you improve your mindset?
HRT is not a magic pill that will fix everything without healthy lifestyle choices.
How is your gut health?
Studies indicate that poor gut health increases the risk of estrogen-related diseases such as PCOS, endometriosis, and even breast cancer.
Have you run a full thyroid panel?
Markers to review include: TSH, Total T4, Free T4, Total T3, Free T3, Reverse T3, TPO.
Let’s look at lifestyle:
‣ Are you complying and following guidelines for dosing or delivery or timing. ‣ How are you sleeping? Sleep deprivation and low melatonin production can be harmful. ‣ Excessive intense exercise or no exercise at all. Both are equally unhealthy. ‣ Are you consuming enough protein? Target 1gm per ideal body weight. ‣ Consuming too many carbohydrates. This can lead to insulin resistance. ‣ Environmental toxin overload. ‣ Chronic/excessive stress. ‣ Smoking reduces estrogen’s ability to prevent osteoporosis. Women who continue to smoke should only be treated via the transdermal route. ‣ Drinking alcohol increases estrogen levels. It’s possible that extra estrogen from drinking combined with the estrogen in HRT can increase risks while on HRT. ‣ Being insulin resistant (this happens easily when we are low in estrogen, which happens in the menopausal transition and we eat a carbohydrate rich diet).
Let’s look at supplements:
‣ DIM is a common supplement that helps estrogen metabolize down healthy pathways. However, it can also reduce overall estrogen and is often not appropriate for women using HRT. ‣ Certain supplements that speed up liver detoxification can cause you to excrete estrogen too quickly. ‣ Vitamin D is a hormone that too often women are lacking due to diet or lifestyle or both. ‣ Vitamin C deficiency can impact HPA axis function. ‣ Other common nutrient deficiencies are B Vitamins and Magnesium.
Did you know that your HRT regimen may change with age?
For instance, you can start on a transdermal HRT at 50 and have it work just fine but your skin’s ability to absorb creams may be very different at 60. This may mean that you need to increase cream, apply it in a different location or try a different method entirely (a good clinician will guide you on this).
It’s important to realize that while a good HRT regimen is extremely helpful to the vast majority of women, it cannot fully replicate what your own ovarian production of estrogen did for you when you were premenopausal. Therefore, it’s natural to expect that this is something that will likely require constant monitoring and tweaking. Not every day, not every year but perhaps every few years or so.
Navigating through the menopausal transition can be a daunting experience for many women. Among the myriad of symptoms and changes that occur, weight gain stands out as a primary concern. The truth is, that hormonal fluctuations, age, and lifestyle can make weight management before, during, and after menopause more challenging. However, understanding these changes and arming oneself with effective strategies can make a difference. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind menopausal weight gain and provide concrete steps to counteract it, drawing insights from esteemed institutions such as the Cleveland Clinic, and Scripps, and insights from Dr. Brighten.
Why Menopause Can Lead to Weight Gain?
Several factors contribute to weight gain around the time of menopause, including:
Hormonal Shifts: As women approach menopause, the levels of estrogen decline. This hormonal decline can lead to increased appetite, reduced metabolic rate, and changes in where fat is stored in the body, often shifting to the abdominal area.
Aging: With age, muscle mass naturally decreases, leading to a slower metabolism. Furthermore, older adults might be less physically active, contributing to muscle loss and weight gain.
Lifestyle Factors: Stress, inadequate sleep, and a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate menopausal weight gain.
Strategies to Counteract Weight Gain from Menopause
Dietary Adjustments
Mindful Eating: Focus on the quality of food rather than quantity. Consuming whole, nutrient-dense foods can provide the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals without the added calories of processed foods.
Limit Sugar and Refined Carbs: According to the Cleveland Clinic, sugars and refined carbs can increase fat storage, particularly around the midsection. Opting for whole grains, legumes, and vegetables can provide sustained energy without rapid blood sugar spikes.
Stay Hydrated: Water is essential for metabolic processes. Drinking adequate water can boost metabolism slightly and help control appetite.
Eat Protein and Fiber: High-protein foods, such as lean meats, fish, tofu, and legumes, can boost metabolism and reduce appetite. Fiber, found in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, keeps you fuller for longer and aids in digestion.
Increase Physical Activity
Strength Training: According to Scripps, strength training is essential for preserving and even building muscle mass. This can offset the natural decline in metabolic rate.
Cardio: Engage in regular aerobic activities like walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming. This can help burn calories and improve heart health.
Consistency is Key: It’s essential to find a routine you enjoy to ensure you stay committed.
Manage Stress
Dr. Brighten emphasizes the role of chronic stress in weight gain during perimenopause. Stress leads to the release of cortisol, which can increase fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area.
Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help manage stress.
Adequate Sleep: Sleep disturbances can elevate stress hormones, further promoting weight gain. Ensure 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Limit Alcohol and Caffeine
While moderate consumption may not significantly affect weight, excessive intake can interfere with sleep, increase appetite, and lead to weight gain.
Stay Accountable
Journaling: Keep track of what you eat, your activities, and emotions. This can provide insights into habits and triggers.
Seek Support: Engage in group fitness classes, join a support group, or enlist a friend for your weight loss journey. Social support can be a powerful motivator.
Consider Medical Support
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Some women benefit from HRT to manage menopausal symptoms, including weight gain. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.
Consultation: Seek advice from dietitians, endocrinologists, or hormone specialists who can provide tailored guidance.
While the menopausal transition might pose challenges in weight management, it doesn’t mean weight gain is inevitable. With proactive measures, informed choices, and consistent efforts, it’s possible to maintain and even lose weight during this phase of life. It’s crucial to approach weight management holistically, considering both physical and mental well-being. Every woman’s experience is unique, so it’s essential to find strategies and routines that resonate personally, ensuring long-term success in the journey of health and wellness.
Menopause is something every woman will face in her lifetime. For former first lady Michelle Obama, when menopause symptoms began to appear, she wanted to know what she was getting into but felt there wasn’t enough information available to properly educate herself. After in-depth discussions with her doctors and friends who are OBGYNs, she decided to start HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, particularly to treat her hot flashes.
Michelle Obama Begins HRT
Starting HRT was not a decision Mrs. Obama took lightly. She is quoted in a People Magazine interview saying, “I’ve had to work with hormones, and that’s new information that we’re learning. Before, there were studies that said that hormones were bad. That’s all we heard. Now we’re finding out research is showing that those studies weren’t fully complete and that there are benefits to hormone replacement therapy.”
What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone replacement treatment, in essence, replaces the estrogen and, in some circumstances, progesterone that the body stops generating after menopause and alleviates many menopausal symptoms. Hormone replacement treatment is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, injections, skin patches, capsules, troches, and creams. In the past, there has been some controversy around HRT due to the potential risk of breast cancer, but current evidence shows that only specific forms of hormone replacement therapy may raise the risk of breast cancer, and the risk varies depending on the type, the dose, the patient’s age, and the length of time the patient takes the medicine.
Signs That You May Need HRT
Women entering menopause can experience a variety of different symptoms, some of which can be life-changing. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, hormone replacement therapy may be right for you.
Hot Flashes
This is one of the most common complaints and symptoms for menopausal women. A hot flash develops when your body’s internal “thermostat” (called the hypothalamus) becomes more sensitive to even minor variations in body temperature due to a lack of estrogen. As a result, your hypothalamus may misinterpret how hot or cold you are, triggering a chain reaction that results in a hot flash.
Night Sweats
Another commonly known symptom of menopause is night sweats. Hormone levels have the potential to influence your body’s internal “temperature control.” As a result, your blood vessels may dilate, causing a surge of heat to cause perspiration and red skin. Women in perimenopause, or the years preceding menopause, are also prone to night sweats.
Insomnia
Menopause can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Lacking adequate sleep can lead to a long list of other issues, including memory problems, difficulty concentrating, depression, anxiety, and an increased risk for heart disease and high blood pressure.
Hair Loss
A decrease in estrogen during menopause may cause women to lose hair. Hair loss could be explained by other reasons such as genetics, age, nutritional deficiencies, or illness, but it’s worth considering it as a symptom of menopause as well.
Mood Swings
Everyone encounters mood swings from time to time, but hormonal changes during menopause may make them more frequent. The severity of mood fluctuations might make it difficult to accomplish everyday tasks and can affect your relationships.
Decreased Sex Drive
A lack of estrogen might alter your libido, making it more difficult for some women to feel sexually aroused. Menopause frequently causes vaginal dryness and weakens vaginal tissues, making intercourse unpleasant or even painful.
Vaginal Itching or Burning
Estrogen is responsible for naturally lubricating your vagina. It also aids in the preservation of the thickness and flexibility of your vagina. Low estrogen levels may lead to vaginal irritation and thinning, leading to vaginal atrophy. This might result in itching and burning.
What To Know When Starting HRT
Despite new evidence indicating that hormone replacement therapy can be quite effective, these old worries about HRT continue cause some women to avoid trying this treatment. However, it can make a huge difference in quality of life. Anyone interested in starting HRT should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine if it is the right choice.
Speak With A Professional About HRT
While perimenopause and menopause are considered ‘normal’ life changes, you get no medals for suffering through it alone. Joi offers hormone replacement therapies to help you not only cope but thrive during this transition in your life. Joi has board-certified clinicians that can evaluate your health and determine if HRT is right for you. Visit the website to learn more or schedule a virtual consultation today!
Lab + clinician visit required
This medication requires a blood draw test.
How would you like to get tested?
Restricted Products Removed
NY & NJ Residents
Looks like you are in New York or New Jersey - due to local state requirements, we have different pricing in these two states. Please confirm your location if you are in NY or NJ or close this window to see pricing for the rest of the United States.
NY & NJ Residents
It looks like you are in New York or New Jersey - due to local requirements we have different lab diagnostics pricing in these states. Please close this message to review the revised applicable pricing for your service area.
