Perimenopause and Menopause

Written By Jamie Bennett


I think it is safe to say that each of us have heard these terms before, maybe even question if you may be headed down this path or in the throws of full blown menopause.

So what exactly happens to our bodies during this season of life? It is much more than simply the loss of the menstrual cycle. Let’s dive into it, shall we?

Menopause is defined as the lake of menstrual period for 12 months. The onset of menopause varies widely, with changes beginning on average between the ages of 40-58, the average age is 52 years old. Hormones, specifically estrogen, fluctuate resulting in the loss of ovarian follicular function. Progesterone also decreases and follicular simulating hormone increases. Additionally, due to adrenal changes, cortisol and other androgens increase. Phew!

Menopause Symptoms May Include:

  • Irregular periods

  • Vaginal dryness

  • Atrophic vaginitis

  • Pain with intercourse

  • Insomnia

  • Lack of energy

  • Joint soreness

  • Stiff back

  • Breast enlargement

  • Heart palpitation

  • Decreased libido

  • Dizziness 

  • Dry skin

  • Weight ghain

  • Urinary incontinence

  • Anxiety

  • Poor memory

  • Decreased concentration

  • Mood changes

  • Irritability

  • Depression

Ok, after typing all of that, I would like to respectfully decline from undergoing menopause.

Oh wait, I can’t. So what CAN we do?

The original Women’s Health Initiative study, when reexamined, found that study results could not be applied to younger patients due to the previous sample demographics. They also determined the hormone replacement therapy used was outdated and not what is currently recommended today.  Therefore, reanalysis of the WHI found the Hormone Replacement Therapy in “younger women or in early postmenopausal women had a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, reducing coronary disease and all-cause mortality.” HRT can be “highly beneficial when given to symptomatic women within 10 years since onset of menopause or to symptomatic women that are under 60 years of age” (Cagnacci et al., 2019).

HRT can be very beneficial to prevent osteopososis, cardiac risks, neurodegenerativbe changes and long-term health. There are many forms of bioidentical hormones currently prescribed and can be customized to your specific needs.

Bottom line, find a specialist who specializes in women’s health and specifically hormone replacement therapy to learn what options might be best for you and your long term health goals!


Jamie Bennett
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Endometriosis