Reviewed by Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD
Reading time: three minutes
Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, is a time of significant hormonal shifts that can bring about a wide array of changes in a woman’s body.
For many women, understanding these changes can help them feel more prepared and empowered.
Below, we explore some of the most common perimenopause changes and how they can impact your daily life.
Table of Contents
1. Perimenopause Acne
Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can lead to unexpected breakouts, even if you haven’t dealt with acne since your teenage years.
As estrogen levels decline and androgen levels remain steady, your skin may produce more oil, clogging pores and causing acne.
What you can do:
- Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
- Incorporate products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide into your skincare routine.
- Consider consulting a dermatologist for treatments tailored to hormonal acne.
For more information about hormonal acne, read Understanding Menopausal Acne: Causes and Treatments.
2. Perimenopause Hair Loss
Thinning hair or noticeable shedding is another common change during perimenopause.
Hormonal shifts, particularly a drop in estrogen and progesterone, can weaken hair follicles and slow growth cycles.
For more information about the connection between changing hormones and hair loss, read Understanding the Link Between Hormones and Hair Loss.
What you can do:
- Use shampoos and conditioners formulated for thinning hair.
- Avoid harsh styling tools and chemical treatments.
- Speak to your doctor about supplements like biotin or medical treatments to promote hair growth.
3. Perimenopause Sleep Issues
Hot flashes and night sweats can disrupt your sleep, leaving you feeling tired and irritable. Insomnia or difficulty staying asleep is a frequent complaint among women in perimenopause.
What You Can Do:
- Keep your bedroom cool and invest in moisture-wicking bedding.
- Establish a relaxing nighttime routine, such as reading or meditating.
- Consider natural sleep aids like melatonin or herbal teas.
For more insights on the effects of hormones on sleep, read How to Balance Hormones for Better Sleep.
4. Perimenopause Headaches
Fluctuating hormone levels can trigger migraines or tension headaches, especially in women who have a history of hormonal headaches related to menstruation.
What you can do:
- Keep a headache journal to identify triggers.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a regular meal schedule to stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, but persistent headaches may require medical advice.
5. Perimenopause Fatigue
Feeling drained even after a full night’s sleep?
Perimenopause fatigue is often linked to disrupted sleep, hormone imbalances, and stress.
What you can do:
- Prioritize sleep hygiene and stress management.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods to maintain energy levels.
- Regular exercise, even light activities like walking, can boost energy and mood.
6. Perimenopause and Vision Changes
Blurry vision, difficulty focusing, or increased sensitivity to light can emerge during perimenopause.
These changes are often due to hormonal shifts affecting eye moisture and elasticity.
What you can do:
- Use lubricating eye drops if dryness is an issue.
- Schedule regular eye exams to monitor any vision changes.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.
The Role of BHRT in Managing Symptoms
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a highly effective treatment option for women experiencing severe perimenopause symptoms.
BHRT involves supplementing your body with hormones that are identical in structure to the ones your body naturally produces.
This therapy can help restore balance and alleviate symptoms such as acne, hair loss, fatigue, and sleep issues.
Benefits of BHRT
- Relief from hot flashes and night sweats
- Stable and improved moods
- Improved sleep
- Increased energy levels
- Improved vaginal health and sexual function
- Increased libido
- Enhanced bone mineral density
- Healthier skin and hair
- Sharper memory and cognitive function
BHRT is tailored to your specific needs. At your consultation, Dr. Bruice will perform a thorough assessment, including blood tests, to determine the right treatment plan for you. |
Hormone Replacement Therapy in Denver, CO
Perimenopause is a natural phase of life, but the changes you experience during this time can be challenging to navigate.
If you are struggling with symptoms related to changing hormones, don’t accept it as your ‘new normal’. You CAN get relief from these symptoms!
Perimenopause is a fact of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it. Hormone replacement therapy isn’t just about minimizing symptoms; it’s about improving your daily life and supporting your overall health.
To learn more about how hormone replacement therapy can benefit you personally, book a consultation with Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD, at the Denver Hormone Institute of Colorado.
Call (303) 957-6686 or complete the online inquiry form.
Other locations
📍St. Louis Hormone Institute of Missouri
9909 Clayton Rd, Suite 225 , St. Louis, MO
Here are just a few reviews from our satisfied patients.
“I’ve been seeing Dr. Bruice for over a year now and his treatment has improved my life dramatically. His personalized methods brought the hormonal balance I needed without any side effects. My sleeping patterns and energy level are much better now. Dr. Bruice provides very personal care to his patients, closely following on result and appointments. I would highly recommend his services to any man or woman who experiences hormonal dysfunction.”
“I came to Dr. Bruice about a year ago feeling exhausted, not sleeping, achy joints, low sex drive and brain fog. With his knowledge and advice, he started me on bioidentical hormones and I feel like I did in my early 30s. The fog has lifted, I’m sleeping all night and have been able to exercise. Thank you, Dr. Bruice, for giving me my life back!”