Menopause is a natural transition that all women go through as they age. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. The average age of menopause is 51, but it can occur earlier or later for some women. As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, women may experience symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, trouble sleeping, and more. Fortunately, there are treatment options available to help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Hormone Harmony in Vineland offers individualized menopause treatment plans to help women thrive during this transition.
The onset of menopause symptoms coincides with a decrease in estrogen and progesterone production by the ovaries. These fluctuations in hormone levels can wreak havoc throughout the body. Some of the most common menopause symptoms include:
Keep in mind that the timing, duration and severity of symptoms varies widely among women. While some may struggle with severe symptoms, others sail through menopause smoothly. Meeting with a menopause specialist can help determine the best treatment options based on a woman's individual needs and health profile.
One of the most effective treatment options for relieving menopausal symptoms and improving quality of life is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). This involves supplementing the body with lab-made hormones that are molecularly identical to those naturally produced in the body.
The hormones used in BHRT come from plant sources and are engineered in a lab to have the same molecular structure as human hormones. This allows the body to recognize and utilize them just as it would naturally-produced hormones. The most common hormones used are estradiol (estrogen), progesterone and testosterone.
Benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy include:
Proper hormone balance is essential for a woman's health and vitality during the menopause transition and beyond. Bioidentical hormones can restore hormonal equilibrium and dramatically improve a woman's experience of menopause.
When administered correctly at optimal dosages, bioidentical hormones are natural-feeling and extremely effective. At Hormone Harmony, creating customized treatment plans is our specialty.
Every woman's hormone situation is unique. The levels and ratios of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone fluctuate throughout the menopause transition.
Comprehensive lab testing helps identify a woman's current hormone profile, including deficiencies and imbalances. This allows for custom-tailored treatment plans using bioidentical hormones.
Initial testing typically includes:
Once treatment begins, follow-up testing helps ensure hormones are optimized for each woman's physiology. We monitor thyroids, cholesterol profiles, inflammation and other biomarkers to guarantee treatment safety.
Accurate lab work is critical for determining what your body needs. Hormone Harmony partners with top diagnostic labs for precision testing and analyzes results to create individualized treatment plans.
Here is a 66-word interesting, unexpected and not well-known real fact about menopause treatment: A little-known alternative treatment for menopause symptoms is spearmint tea. Research has found that drinking two cups of spearmint tea per day can help reduce hot flashes and headaches in menopausal women. The spearmint acts on hormones in the body that are connected to menopause symptoms, providing a natural way to find relief without medication.
Not all healthcare providers have specialized expertise in hormone balance and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. However, menopause specialists specifically focus on optimizing women's health during midlife and beyond through natural therapies.
Some benefits of working with specialized menopause doctors include:
Hormone Harmony brings together a team of highly-skilled practitioners dedicated specifically to menopause and hormone balance treatment. Our integrated approach looks at the big picture to help women thrive during midlife and beyond.
At Hormone Harmony, we've found a step-by-step protocol works best for optimizing results from menopause treatment. Here's what women can expect:
Menopause can be a challenging time marked by hormonal mayhem. But it certainly doesn't have to be miserable! With proper testing, bioidentical hormones, nutrition and lifestyle adjustments, relief is within reach.
Hormone Harmony offers personalized care to help women balance hormones, reduce symptoms, and continue living their best lives. Our team has extensive training in menopause treatment, bioidentical hormone therapies and holistic health.
We also understand the emotional impact of menopause. You can feel heard and understood. Our goal is for every woman to transition gracefully through menopause while optimizing vitality, health and quality of life. Don't hesitate to explore how we can help!
Menopause is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period in women over age 40. Perimenopause can begin years earlier with fluctuating menstrual cycles and early menopausal symptoms. Blood tests help confirm menopause by measuring hormone levels.
Changes in menstrual cycle length, heavier or lighter periods, and PMS symptoms are common initial signs. Moodiness, trouble sleeping, fatigue and hot flashes may also develop early in perimenopause.
Yes, hormone fluctuations have been associated with increased anxiety and depression risk in some women. Supportive counseling, stress management and bioidentical hormones can help stabilize moods.
The menopause transition usually lasts 4-5 years but can be longer. Menopause symptoms may persist for years after the final period. Long term hormone therapy helps eliminate symptoms.
Premature menopause, or early ovarian failure, can occur in women under age 40. About 1% of women reach menopause before age 40.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy that is tailored to your individual hormone needs is considered the most effective treatment for managing menopause symptoms long term.
Shifting hormones often slows metabolism, leading to fat accumulation in the midsection. Exercise, healthy eating and bioidentical hormones help prevent weight gain.
Severe hot flashes may require prescription estrogen therapy for immediate relief. Over-the-counter supplements like black cohosh, vitamin E and phytoestrogens may help mild hot flashes. Staying cool also reduces occurrences.
Memory and focus often improve with the right balance of bioidentical estrogen and testosterone. Eating brain-boosting foods, exercising, and mentally stimulating activities also sharpen cognition.
Limit sugar, refined carbs, alcohol and caffeine which can worsen symptoms. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts and seeds to provide nutrients that support hormone balance.
