The transition into menopause, medically termed perimenopause, starts for most women in their late 40's to early 50's. As the ovaries gradually make less of the key hormones estrogen and progesterone, periods become irregular and eventually stop completely. This marks the start of postmenopause.
While some women sail through “the change”, around 80% have symptoms lasting from a few months to over 10 years. Hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, sleep disruption, lack of concentration, weight gain despite eating less, low libido, and urinary issues are common complaints. Bone and heart health also decline without adequate hormones.
There are a few reasons why hormone production slows down leading up to menopause:
Estrogen acts like a thermostat, regulating body temperature. As it drops, the “furnace” of hot flashes turns on. Estrogen clears LDL “bad” cholesterol from blood vessels; with less estrogen, heart disease risk increases. Vaginal tissue relies on estrogen to stay lubricated and elastic. Estrogen enhances collagen, keeping skin supple. It also impacts sleep, weight, memory, mood, and libido.
Progesterone, the other key hormone, works with estrogen to manage the menstrual cycle. It stabilizes the uterine lining, maintaining early pregnancies. Progesterone is calming, promotes deep sleep, and has natural anti-anxiety effects. Many menopausal issues arise from declining progesterone along with estrogen.
The first few postmenopausal years constitute a “critical window” where treatment can reduce long term health risks. Estrogen started within 6 years of menopause showed maximum benefits on thinking skills and memory in a key study. It also protects against heart disease most when initiated before substantial plaque buildup in arteries.
Vaginal dryness and discomfort will only worsen without treatment. Early therapy can prevent the bladder and urinary tract changes leading to incontinence. Healthy bones require estrogen to properly incorporate calcium; rapid bone loss accelerates in the first 5 menopause years.
In summary, timely hormone therapy pays dividends in protecting women’s health as they transition through menopause.
Balance Hormone Clinic custom blends bioidentical hormones - identical on a molecular level to those made naturally in the body. Our specialized compounding lab can replicate the ideal hormone balance for each woman. We use high qualitymedications approved by the FDA.
Creams allow for continual steady dosing. Pellets are convenient, requiring less frequent administration. Tablets can more closely replicate the cyclic menstrual pattern. Local vaginal products resolve uncomfortable symptoms effectively.
We design programs using the optimal method for each patient. Treatment must suit an individual’s lifestyle and needs to have the best chance of long term success.
Follow up testing tracks hormone levels and symptom response. We adjust medications based on lab results and feedback until balance stabilizes. Ongoing monitoring prevents over and under treatment.
The goal is maintaining hormones within youthful ranges - high enough to relieve symptoms but not so high as to carry risks from estrogen excess. Patients feel like themselves again.
A holistic approach optimizes hormone therapy results. We provide guidance on diet, exercise, stress management and other factors influencing health during menopause.
Eating foods high in phytoestrogens (plant estrogens) may enhance the effects of treatment. These include soy, flaxseed, sesame seeds, oats, barley, dried apricots, pistachios, cherries, and oranges. Cruciferous vegetables have beneficial phytochemicals. Omega 3 fatty acids reduce inflammation. We recommend limiting sugar, alcohol and caffeine.
Heart health and strong bones need weight bearing, muscle building physical activity. The local YMCA has exercise classes geared towards menopausal women. Aquafit at the community pool is joint-friendly. Walking groups along the riverfront trail provide social motivation. Just 30 minutes daily makes a difference!
Cultivating a positive mindset and supportive relationships help weather hormone changes. Mindful Meditation Montrose runs courses in stress reduction techniques. Make time for uplifting hobbies and friendships. Seek counseling for mood issues like anxiety or depression.
Acupuncture Montrose uses fine needles along energy pathways to reduce hot flashes and promote relaxation. Massage therapy aids sleep and eases muscle tension. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can improve bladder control. Explore how these therapies might enhance your hormone therapy.
A little-known menopause treatment that has shown promise in small studies is floating in a sensory deprivation tank. Floating in a warm, dark, sound-free environment for 90 minutes can provide relief from hot flashes and night sweats, as well as reduce stress, muscle tension, and depression in menopausal women. Further research is needed, but it seems to be a unique avenue worth exploring.
Distinguishing menopause from other conditions with similar symptoms is essential for appropriate treatment. Thyroid disorders, anemia, migraines, gastrointestinal issues, and depression overlap with perimenopausal problems.
Accurate diagnosis requires blood tests. These include:
Balance Hormone Clinic partners with local labs to make testing convenient. We interpret results taking your unique medical history into account.
Ongoing tests during treatment allow medication adjustment until ideal hormone balance stabilizes. Symptom questionnaires also track progress.
Monitoring is key - it reduces risks and enhances success.
Conveniently located in central Montrose near transit routes, Balance Hormone Clinic provides compassionate, personalized care for women transitioning through perimenopause and beyond.
Our experienced nurses and physicians take time to understand lifestyles and priorities. We explain options clearly and monitor response closely. Adjustments are made promptly if needed. We partner with patients to map out a treatment journey tailored to individual needs.
The welcoming clinic environment makes sensitive discussions comfortable. Resources on nutrition, self-care and community supports are shared. Yoga classes, mindfulness courses, counseling for life transitions and generally nurturing women’s health across the seasons of life are all part of the Balance Hormone Clinic approach.
We strive to help patients feel balanced, vital and confident through hormone changes into the rewarding postmenopausal years.
Menopause symptoms should not disrupt life quality. Declining hormones are correctable with proper diagnosis and treatment. Balance Hormone Clinic offers personalized care and the latest medical therapies to help patients feel their best.
Take charge of your health by seeking evaluation for hormone therapy. Our knowledgeable team provides compassionate guidance each step of the way.
