Menopause officially begins when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months and marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. During this time, hormone levels begin to fluctuate and decline, and women may experience symptoms like hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and mood changes.
Common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause include:
If left untreated, the decline of estrogen levels during menopause can lead to several health risks later in life including:
If you are experiencing unpleasant perimenopause or menopause symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor. There are various treatment options available, including hormone therapy, that can help alleviate symptoms and reduce long term health risks. The key is being informed and proactive about finding the right treatment plan for your needs.
One of the most effective treatment options for managing menopause symptoms is hormone therapy (HT), sometimes called menopausal hormone therapy or hormone replacement therapy.
Hormone therapy delivers low doses of estrogen and progestin directly into the bloodstream. This helps replace the hormones that the ovaries no longer produce after menopause. Hormone therapy:
There are several delivery methods for hormone therapy including:
In general, women experiencing moderate to severe menopause symptoms are candidates for hormone therapy. The benefits tend to outweigh potential risks when started early in menopause for healthy women under age 60. Those with certain health conditions may require specialized hormone therapy regimens.
Just as women undergo hormonal changes later in life, men experience shifts in testosterone and estrogen that can affect energy, sexual function, mental health, and more. Imbalances in male hormones increase as men age, starting around age 30.
The gradual testosterone decline in aging men is referred to as andropause or sometimes “male menopause.” While not as abrupt as female menopause, andropause can cause symptoms like:
Symptoms alone do not indicate low testosterone. A blood test is required to determine hormone levels. Based on symptoms and blood levels, hormone therapy may be recommended to help get testosterone back to optimal range.
Research shows that testosterone therapy can:
Harmony Hormone Center specializes in customized treatment plans to help alleviate hormone imbalance symptoms and reduce long term health risks. Our goal is to provide exceptional care through every stage.
We take time to understand your health history and symptoms to create tailored hormone therapy regimens meeting your individual needs. This includes:
We provide guidance on lifestyle changes and integrative therapies that support hormone balance such as:
We continue to monitor, adjust treatment, and support you through the years to promote optimal wellness during midlife and beyond. Patients appreciate our responsive, compassionate care.
Many women going through menopause find that regular moderate exercise, like walking or yoga, can help ease symptoms. Studies show that physical activity releases endorphins that improve mood and also helps regulate hormone levels related to hot flashes and sleep troubles. Simple lifestyle measures can provide real relief without necessarily needing medicines.
Achieving and maintaining hormone balance is key for health and vitality as we age. Whether you are experiencing unpleasant menopause or andropause symptoms, proper treatment can help you feel like your best self again.
Restoring optimal hormone levels can:
Balancing hormones long term protects against:
Treatment enables many to thrive through their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond. We help patients optimize hormones for vibrancy, activity, sound emotional health, and longevity.
Conclusion
We encourage you to learn more about hormone changes during midlife. Understanding what to expect and seeking timely treatment for unpleasant symptoms can help promote quality of life now and in the years ahead. The practitioners at Harmony Hormone Center have extensive expertise in hormone therapy tailored to your unique needs. We are dedicated to supporting patients through balanced, vibrant aging.
