Menopause is a natural transition that all women experience as they reach middle age. The term "menopause" refers to the point in time when a woman's menstrual cycles permanently stop, marking the end of fertility. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause, which is when many women first begin noticing changes related to hormone levels.
Some of the most common symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause include:
While some symptoms are merely annoying, others like hot flashes can significantly disrupt sleep and daily activities. Estrogen deficiency is primarily responsible for these unwanted effects during the transition to menopause.
Hormone levels don't plummet overnight. The fluctuations and decline happen slowly over a period of years. But this gradual process means women often live with menopause symptoms for a prolonged period of time. Some women begin having issues in their 30s or 40s as hormones start to change.
The average age for menopause is around 51 in the United States. However, it's possible for premature menopause to occur earlier, especially for women who smoke or have a family history of early menopause. The age range for perimenopause is typically between 45 and 55.
While menopause is inevitable, women don't have to suffer through debilitating symptoms for years. The good news is that safe and effective treatment options are available, offering substantial symptom relief.
Hormone therapy (also called menopausal hormone therapy or hormonal replacement therapy) provides the body with small doses of hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and/or testosterone. This helps stabilize hormone levels and manage symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
There are few medical reasons women can't take hormone therapy, at least for short-term use. The key is starting at the lowest effective dose and using it only as long as needed to manage symptoms. For some women, that might mean taking it for one or two years until the most severe symptoms pass. Others may need to continue longer term at a low dose to maintain their quality of life.
Women who still have a uterus will take a formulation that includes both estrogen and progesterone to avoid any increased risk of uterine cancer. Those without a uterus can take estrogen alone. Both systemic pills/patches and low-dose vaginal estrogen preparations are options.
Some women may also benefit from adding testosterone therapy. Along with helping libido and sexual function, testosterone positively impacts energy levels, mood, and overall sense of wellbeing.
The timing of beginning treatment is also important. The sooner bothersome symptoms are addressed, the easier they are to manage. Waiting too long can allow symptoms to spiral out of control. Starting hormone therapy during the perimenopause or the first year following menopause produces the best results.
Getting a thorough hormone evaluation is the first step for women in Whittier seeking individualized treatment. Blood tests check levels of key hormones like estradiol and FSH. Thyroid hormones should also be evaluated since thyroid issues often overlap with menopause. Testosterone and other androgens may be tested if libido or sexual problems are present.
Understanding a woman's current hormone status is crucial for determining the right type and dose of therapy. Hormone tests can identify deficiencies to target as well as high levels that may require lowering. Testing also establishes a baseline to monitor progress on therapy.
Annual testing is recommended while actively treating menopause because hormone needs can change over time. The goal is using the lowest dose needed to relieve symptoms. Some women are able to decrease doses after the first few years as hormone levels stabilize. Repeat testing helps guide dosage adjustments.
There are several places in Whittier that offer comprehensive menopause lab testing to get these essential hormone values, including:
Quest Diagnostics
123 Main St.
Open 8am-5pm on weekdays
No appointment needed
LabCorp Patient Service Center
456 Oak Rd.
Call (562) 555-1234 for hours and appointments
Once testing is complete, the results will be reviewed to identify hormone imbalances. This informs the creation of a customized treatment plan.
The experienced physicians at Hormone Harmony Clinic provide cutting-edge hormone therapies to help women enjoy life during perimenopause and beyond. Treatment is tailored to each woman's unique needs and hormone profile.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, the doctors here listen to all of a woman's concerns and symptoms. Therapy is designed to target the specific hormones deficiencies and imbalances contributing to those issues.
The clinic offers a wide range of treatment options including:
These therapies are highly effective for relief of hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, urinary issues, sleep disturbances, mood changes, fatigue, memory and concentration problems, low libido and more.
Most women begin to feel a difference within a few weeks as hormones are restored to more youthful levels. The freedom this provides from debilitating menopause symptoms is life changing. With proper treatment, women can continue living full and active lives.
Some women going through menopause find relief through acupuncture. Studies show it can help reduce hot flashes and night sweats by regulating hormones and energy flow. Acupuncture also helps with sleep trouble, mood swings, and joint pain. Though not a cure, it's an effective complementary therapy for managing menopause symptoms naturally.
In addition to hormone therapy, the physicians here provide guidance on lifestyle measures women can take to support hormonal balance and minimize menopause symptoms. These include:
The cooler winter temperatures in Whittier make it an excellent time to start menopause treatment since hot flashes can be less troublesome. Being proactive about addressing symptoms leads to the best results long term.
Hormone Harmony Clinic also offers counseling and support groups for the emotional aspects of menopause. This transitional time brings physical and mental changes that can be challenging. The compassionate doctors and staff provide guidance to help women thrive.
The Hormone Harmony Clinic facility provides a comfortable, private environment for all women's health and hormone-related appointments. Patients come from Whittier and throughout the surrounding communities.
The location off Interstate 5 means it's easily accessible by car. Public transportation is another option, with bus routes available near the clinic.
Free parking is on-site for the convenience of driving to appointments. For those with mobility limitations, the building is handicap accessible and accommodating.
Patients appreciate being able to get everything under one roof - lab testing, consultations, therapies, counseling and pharmacy. The comprehensive approach makes the process of finding relief for menopause symptoms easier.
Menopause symptoms should never disrupt life or get in the way of what's important. By seeking proper testing and individualized treatment, women can prevent perimenopause or menopause from negatively impacting their quality of life.
Whether your symptoms are mild or already significantly interfering with sleep, work, relationships or activities, it's worth exploring your hormone therapy options. The knowledgeable doctors at Hormone Harmony Clinic look forward to helping women across Whittier optimize their hormone health and feel their best.
Discover effective solutions that work for your unique needs. With treatment, you can continue enjoying the vibrant, happy and healthy life you deserve.
