Happy Hormones Series: Perimenopause & Menopause

The Perimenopausal & Menopausal Years

Ovarian reserves start declining in the late 30s and 40s- this causes hormone output to be more chaotic. For women affected, this can lead to symptoms such as mood changes, hot flashes, brain fog, and disrupted sleep.

For these women, I focus on optimizing metabolic health and decreasing inflammation. Optimizing gut health and identifying food sensitivities can play a big role. This is especially true if inflammation is the primary driver.

As a Functional Medicine NP I recommend:

• Focusing on getting enough protein

• Stabilizing blood sugar levels

• Optimizing the circadian rhythm
  

These can all be game changers.

Additionally, I generally recommend:

• Getting 7-9 hours of sleep and

• Getting 10 minutes of natural light on the eyes in the morning

• Minimizing blue light exposure at night
  

These can make all make a huge difference.

Thyroid & Adrenals

Optimizing thyroid function and adrenal hormones is also important. Doing the steps mentioned above, while also emphasizing stress reduction can be extremely helpful.

I recommend working with a provider who will check a full blood panel.
This includes:

• Full Thyroid Panel (can detect if you are hyperthyroid or hypothyroid)

• Thyroid Antibodies (can detect autoimmune conditions of the thyroid)

• Full Iron Panel

• B12 and Folate

• Homocysteine

• Insulin

• Hemoglobin A1c

• Inflammatory Markers

• Vitamin D

• Lipid Panel

• Zinc

• Copper

• Complete Blood Count

• Complete Metabolic Panel

It’s during this time that we can start thinking about bringing on some nutraceutical support and/or Bioidentical Hormone Replacement if needed. Before starting Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), I recommend always checking a full extended blood panel and hormone panel. It's best to work with a Functional Medicine provider who is familiar with interpreting these results.

Next in our series...

Happy Hormones Series V: Post Menopause