Dr. Michelle Salga, BTR (dip.), BSc., ND - Naturopathic Doctor
Perimenopause, often referred to as the "transition to menopause," is the phase in a woman's life leading up to menopause, when hormonal changes begin to occur and menstrual cycles become irregular. It usually starts in a woman’s 40s but can begin in the late 30s for some. This transitional period typically lasts several years and is marked by fluctuations in the production of estrogen and progesterone, which are the hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle.
Symptoms of Perimenopause
The symptoms vary significantly among women, but common ones include:
Irregular Periods: Menstrual cycles may become shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter. Skipped periods are common.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Sudden sensations of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing, are a hallmark symptom.
Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early may occur, often due to night sweats.
Mood Changes: Increased irritability, anxiety, or depression may arise due to hormonal fluctuations.
Vaginal Dryness: Decreased estrogen can lead to dryness, itching, or discomfort during intercourse.
Decreased Libido: Changes in hormone levels can impact sexual desire.
Weight Changes: A tendency to gain weight, especially around the abdomen, can develop.
Fatigue: Persistent tiredness even with adequate sleep is common.
Cognitive Changes: "Brain fog," memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating may appear.
Hair and Skin Changes: Thinning hair or changes in skin elasticity are possible.
Bone Density Changes: Decreasing estrogen levels can start affecting bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
Causes of Perimenopause
Perimenopause occurs as the ovaries gradually decrease the production of estrogen and progesterone. This is part of the natural aging process and prepares the body for menopause, which is defined as the absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months.
Duration
The perimenopausal phase can last anywhere from 2 to 10 years, with an average duration of about 4 years. It ends when a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period, marking the onset of menopause.
Treatment
Treating perimenopause focuses on managing symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Treatment can be customized based on the severity of symptoms, individual health history, and preferences. Below are some common approaches to treatment:
Changes in nutrition and diet
Exercise
Stress
Sleep hygiene
Bio-identical Hormones
What are Bio-identical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are chemically identical to those naturally produced by the human body. They are used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to treat symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances or declines, such as those experienced during perimenopause and menopause.
What Makes Them "Bioidentical"?
The term "bioidentical" refers to the fact that these hormones have the same molecular structure as endogenous (naturally occurring) hormones in the body. This similarity allows them to bind to the body’s hormone receptors in the same way as natural hormones.
Sources of Bioidentical Hormones
Bioidentical hormones can be derived from plant sources, such as soybeans or wild yams, which contain precursors that are chemically processed to match human hormones.
Uses of Bioidentical Hormones
Bioidentical hormones are typically used to manage symptoms of hormone imbalance, such as:
Perimenopause and Menopause: Treat hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
Other Hormonal Disorders: Treat conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or thyroid dysfunction.
Post-Hysterectomy: Provide hormone support in women who’ve had their ovaries removed
Benefits of Bioidentical Hormones
Symptom Relief: Reduces the severity of menopause-related symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.
Bone Protection: Helps prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Heart Health: When started early in menopause, it may offer some cardiovascular protection.
Individualization: Custom-compounded hormones allow therapy to be tailored to a woman’s specific hormone levels.
Are Bioidentical Hormones Right for You?
If you’re considering bioidentical hormone therapy, it’s important to:
Get Your Hormones Tested: A healthcare provider can assess your current hormone levels to determine if you’re a good candidate.
Discuss Risks and Benefits: Understand the potential advantages and risks of treatment, especially if you have a history of cancer, blood clots, or cardiovascular disease.
Choose Regulated Options: Whenever possible, opt for FDA-approved or Health Canada-approved bioidentical hormones over compounded options unless specific customization is necessary.
Book in with our Naturopathic Doctor, Dr. Michelle Salga ND, for a complimentary discovery call to discuss your particular health concerns and which treatment would be best suited for you and your peri-menopausal symptoms.
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