Menopause is a pivotal time in the lives it touches across the world. While there are many dynamics present, they are not all bad. I try to offer my clients a well-rounded perspective around the topic. The hallmark of menopause is a gradual decline of estrogen and progesterone. Yet this process is not always so graceful, as there are sudden and drastic highs and lows along the downward trajectory. This fluctuation along with the decline is what leads to many of the symptoms around menopause. It is famous for being a time of mood swings, dryness, night sweats, hot flashes, changes in libido, difficulty concentrating, and many other not-so-fun experiences.
But there is also an empowerment that takes place.
A switch in hardwiring that shifts our focus away from placing others first, to prioritizing our own needs. Many find themselves speaking up when they previously wouldn't, saying no more often, and letting go of layers of self-consciousness that cloud our earlier years.
Here's where I believe that managing menopause is truly an art!
It's also where a functional approach shines. As the experience of menopause is so individual, the plan has to be just as individual. Hormones touch every part of our bodies (and minds!).
I have compiled a list of the most important things to keep in mind when seeking help.
#1 You’re not crazy! Big changes are happening and you may need some help to cope along the way. Find someone who listens. Many reach out to their doctors complaining of early issues with mood, sleep, menstrual changes, and focus and are often shrugged off, or offered an antidepressant, sleep aid, etc. Symptoms of your hormones beginning to shift can start as early as your 30’s. Find a provider you trust so you can work together to come up with a plan that fits your needs and wishes.
Make sure any hormones that enter your body are bioidentical or BHRT. Studies are confirming an improved safety profile for bioidentical hormones and they are equally (if not more) effective. I repeat. Do not take synthetic hormones. Your provider should take the time to fully weigh out the benefits and risks so you feel fully informed on your decision.
A couple notes on estrogen: First, and so importantly, avoid oral estrogen! Risks seem to be reduced, especially for blood clots, when estrogen is used transdermally. Not to mention absorption is optimal through the skin, so you don’t need as high of a dose. Another pet-peeve I have are patients placed on estrogen-only therapies. Progesterone is the jelly to the peanut butter, the yin to the yang! People tend to feel more balanced, sleep better, and have less anxiety with progesterone combined with estrogen.
Consider natural medicine for menopause. Botanicals, vitamins, and even diet can make a huge difference in the experience of menopause and are a great addition to hormone therapy or in some cases an amazing stand-alone option. I love botanicals for very early shifts in hormones, or for those that have a personal or family history that make hormone therapy an unsafe option.
Make sure your provider is doing the digging. There are many other factors that can make menopause worse. I always check to make sure that thyroid conditions are ruled out. Hypothyroidism really does a number on the balance of hormones and is so common. Blood sugar balance or insulin resistance can play a role. I also look for things like iron, B12, or Vitamin D deficiencies. Even higher stress levels can make the symptoms of menopause more intense. Your overall health matters and should be considered.
Whatever route you choose, remember that menopause is not a disease. It’s a normal process, a natural shift. Our goal is to pave the way, so the road is less bumpy. This allows you to keep living life with the most ease, balance, and stability.