Premenopause, Perimenopause, and Menopause

A woman’s life can be divided into four phases: premenarche, reproductive, perimenopause, and menopause. Each stage presents unique challenges and changes related to hormone levels, which can significantly impact a woman’s overall health and well-being.

We understand the critical role that hormones play throughout these stages and are dedicated to offering comprehensive, personalized care for every woman.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is an effective treatment option tailored to the specific symptoms women may experience during each stage of their lives. 

Whether dealing with the discomfort of perimenopausal symptoms, the various signs of menopause, or the hormonal fluctuations during the reproductive years, we are here to support you with advanced therapies designed to restore balance and improve your quality of life.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is an effective treatment option tailored to the specific symptoms women may experience during each stage of their lives.
Premenopause, Perimenopause, and Menopause
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Hormonal Imbalance

What is Premenopause?

Premenopause encompasses the entire duration of a woman’s reproductive years, characterized by a regularly occurring menstrual cycle, which on average lasts 28 days.

During your cycle, your levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate. Day one marks the beginning of menstruation, a phase when estrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest.

The first half of the menstrual cycle is called the follicular phase, during which estrogen is the primary hormone. Around day 11-12, estrogen levels peak and cause the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH), which prepares one of the ovarian follicles for ovulation.

On day 13, there’s a jump in LH levels, which leads to the release of an egg. At the same time, estrogen builds up the endometrial tissue in the uterus, without which menstruation would not be possible.

The second half of the cycle, or the luteal phase, begins after ovulation. During this time, the remains of the released egg form the corpus luteum, which produces more progesterone. Progesterone levels peak about 6-8 days before the next period, around day 21-22 of the cycle. At the same time, estrogen levels also increase. Progesterone’s role is to prepare the thickened endometrial lining for a potential pregnancy.

If conception occurs, the corpus luteum produces progesterone for about six weeks, after which the placenta takes over. If conception doesn’t happen, the corpus luteum shrinks, reducing progesterone levels and starting a new menstrual cycle. The sole purpose of this cyclical process is to prepare a healthy endometrial lining suitable for the implantation of an embryo.

Although some women might notice minor symptoms, premenopause is generally an asymptomatic phase of a woman’s reproductive life. However, hormonal imbalances during this stage of life can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle. Common symptoms of a hormonal imbalance include:

  • Irregular or heavy menstrual periods
  • Persistent migraines, fatigue, and mood swings
  • Difficulty sleeping and anxiety
  • Acne breakouts, weight gain, and bloating

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase between premenopause and menopause, typically lasting 4-8 years. For most women, it starts in the mid-40s but can start earlier, even in your 30s. 

Perimenopause marks a decline in ovarian function, causing hormonal fluctuations that can lead to various symptoms.

Perimenopause brings unpredictable estrogen levels, which fluctuate throughout the day and vary from one cycle to the next. Women may experience symptoms of estrogen deficiency even though perimenopause is generally characterized by estrogen dominance. 

Although women are still producing estrogen during perimenopause, the levels are much lower than before.

As estrogen levels decrease, progesterone levels also decline. This imbalance often results in the classic signs of PMS (premenstrual syndrome). As such, many women may be diagnosed with perimenopause after experiencing these new or intensified PMS symptoms.

During this stage, perimenopause symptoms can include:

  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Vaginal dryness and pain during sex
  • Breast tenderness
  • Mood swings
  • Forgetfulness/memory loss
  • Hair loss
  • Depression and anxiety
  • An increase in belly/visceral fat
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Changes in sexual desire
  • Difficulty sleeping and fatigue

What is Menopause?

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years when her ovaries no longer release eggs and menstruation stops. It is the point at which a woman has not experienced a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Menopause usually occurs in the early 50s but can happen earlier or later for some women.

The most common sign of menopause is a significant decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels. As such, women may experience various menopausal symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, including:

  • Digestive issues and bloating
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Mood swings and anxiety
  • Brain fog
  • Weight gain due to slowed metabolism and decreased muscle mass
  • Changes in sexual desire
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Joint pain and muscle aches
  • Osteoporosis due to bone loss

Hormonal Imbalances and Their Impact

Regardless of what stage you are at, hormonal imbalances can significantly impact overall health and well-being. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels are essential in various body functions, including regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone health, and controlling mood.

Left untreated, hormonal imbalances can also increase the risk of developing certain health conditions, including:

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Hormonal Imbalance

BHRT is a treatment option designed to restore hormonal balance in women experiencing symptoms related to premenopause, perimenopause, and menopause.

Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those produced by the human body. They are derived from plant sources and have a molecular structure identical to natural human hormones. It is often referred to as “natural hormone therapy” because it uses plant-based hormones instead of synthetic ones.

BHRT is personalized for each individual based on their hormone levels and symptoms. The goal is to restore balance and alleviate the negative symptoms associated with hormone imbalance. 

For a detailed explanation of BHRT, visit our Bioidentical Hormone Therapy service page.

Optimize Your Hormone Health With Dr. Kenton Bruice

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a safe and effective option for women suffering from negative symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.

With personalized treatment plans from Dr. Bruice, you can alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life during these transitional stages.

If you are searching for a ‘menopause specialist near me’ or have questions about BHRT, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bruice, the best hormone doctor in Denver, CO, Aspen, CO  and St. Louis, MO. To book an appointment in Denver or St. Louis, call (303) 957-6686 or complete the online inquiry form.

FAQs

Is BHRT safe?

BHRT is a safe and effective treatment for hormonal imbalances in women. The hormones used are identical to those produced by the body, making them well-tolerated and low-risk. The benefits of hormone therapy often outweigh the risk of leaving an imbalance untreated.

How long does it take to see results from BHRT?

Results may vary for each individual, but most women start experiencing symptom relief within a few weeks of beginning BHRT treatment.

Are there any side effects of BHRT?

As with any medical treatment, there can be potential side effects. However, because BHRT uses hormones identical to those produced by the body, the risk of adverse effects is minimal. Dr. Bruice will monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to minimize side effects.

Can BHRT help with weight loss?

BHRT can help alleviate symptoms contributing to weight gain, such as slowed metabolism and decreased muscle mass. However, it is not a weight loss treatment on its own. Maintaining a healthy diet and physical activity is crucial for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight during hormonal changes.