Menopause is a natural transition that all women go through as they age, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. The average age for menopause is 51, but it can occur anywhere from 40-55 years old. As a woman approaches menopause, she may experience peri-menopause, which includes irregular periods, hot flashes, trouble sleeping, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. These symptoms occur because of hormone fluctuations and imbalances - specifically low estrogen levels. While menopause is inevitable, women do not need to suffer through debilitating symptoms. There are safe and effective treatment options available.
The first step in developing an appropriate treatment plan is getting baseline hormone blood tests to uncover specific deficiencies or imbalances. Common tests include:
Based on an analysis of a woman's symptoms and lab results, customized bioidentical hormone therapy can be prescribed to restore balance, greatly minimizing unpleasant symptoms of menopause.
"Getting a thorough workup with lab testing and having an expert interpret my results has allowed me to truly address the root hormonal imbalances causing my symptoms." - Sarah
Seeking care from a menopause specialist who focuses on balancing hormones and reducing symptoms naturally has immense benefits over struggling through menopause. A menopause specialist will:
Additionally, menopause specialists stay up to date on the latest research and new treatment options available.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is the leading treatment prescribed by menopause experts to help alleviate unpleasant symptoms.
Here is an overview:
Multiple studies demonstrate bioidentical hormones effectively reduce hot flashes, prevent bone loss, improve mood and sleep troubles, restore energy, boost libido, and enhance quality of life.
Importantly, recent longer-term studies show bioidentical hormones are safer than previously thought when started within 10 years of the last period. The doses can be adjusted based on specific symptoms and goals.
"I suffered from horrible hot flashes for years before starting bioidentical hormones. Why didn't I start this wonderful treatment sooner?" - Emily
While balancing hormones is imperative to minimize unpleasant menopausal symptoms, making certain lifestyle adjustments can further help women thrive during this transition:
Eating foods rich in phytoestrogens naturally boosts estrogen levels. Great options include:
Additionally, focusing on getting adequate calcium and vitamin D promotes bone health. Omega-3 rich foods help mood and heart health. Staying hydrated is also essential during menopause.
Staying active with both cardio and strength training provides immense benefits:
Aim for 30 minutes daily, incorporating weights 2-3 times a week. Yoga and Pilates are great options.
Managing stress is especially vital during menopause as it exacerbates symptoms. Set aside time every day to reset with helpful techniques like:
Getting enough sleep and social connection also helps bust stress.
"Having an arsenal of stress reduction techniques has helped me stay balanced since starting menopause." - Jessica
While most women find immense relief from customized bioidentical hormone therapy, additional treatment options may provide enhancement:
Certain supplements complement prescriptive hormones:
Always consult the menopause specialist before starting supplements to ensure safety and efficacy.
A new modality garnering excellent results is vaginal laser therapy using the MonaLisa Touch system. This technology stimulates collagen production and regenerates vaginal tissue to effectively treat:
The procedure is very quick with minimal discomfort but yields amazing benefits!
When researching menopause experts, ensure whoever you choose to partner with provides individualized care centered around optimizing wellbeing while navigating this transition gracefully. Key qualities include:
Select OB/GYNs pursue fellowships focused entirely on menopause, hormones, and healthy aging. This intensive training allows them to truly understand the complexities of midlife hormonal fluctuations. It is not a one size fits all approach.
The top menopause specialists stay updated on the newest diagnostic testing, bioidentical hormones, delivery methods, dosage forms, and complementary modalities for comprehensive symptom relief.
Hormones influence a woman's entire well-being not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. The ideal menopause specialist appreciates this connection and spends ample time listening and getting to the root cause of frustrations.
"I never feel rushed at my appointments. My doctor really listens and gets the full picture." - Amanda
Menopause is complex with wide variability in women's experiences. Thankfully by seeking personalized care focused specifically on balancing hormones utilizing the latest advancements, most unpleasant symptoms dissipate, allowing women to thrive. The future of menopause therapy is brighter than ever!
At Rejuvenate Clinic, we specialize in hormone therapies including menopause, thyroid, wellness, and sexual health. Our highly-trained practitioners provide individualized treatment plans to restore wellbeing utilizing advanced testing, bioidentical hormones, supplements, and lifestyle guidance. Convenient options in Sherwood accommodate busy schedules. Contact us today to see how we can help you balance your hormones and feel your best again!
