Menopause is widely misunderstood mostly due to lack of communication between patient and provider as well as the stigma associated with its symptoms. Often our patients admit that they believe that menopause is hot flashes and night sweats. Some women over 60 often say that they “never went through menopause” because they didn’t experience these two symptoms. Symptoms vary widely among different body systems. Women have arrived at our clinic with feelings as if they are “going crazy” or feel like they no longer are the person they used to be. Often time relationship issues ensue due to lack of knowledge and understanding in both men and women about this stage in a woman’s life.  In our practice, we take our time explaining hormonal changes and providing support whether hormone replacement is an option or not. Perimenopause may begin between the ages of 37 and 43 often with a decline in progesterone causing heavy periods, fibroids, insomnia, irritability and worsening of PMS symptoms.

Symptoms include but are not limited to:

• Hot flashes/Night sweats
• Mood swings, depression, and/or anxiety. Some women find that hormone fluctuations in menopause create a feeling of being out of control. Reports of increased irritability, anxiety, fatigue, and blue moods are not uncommon. Women often report lack of patience.
• Vaginal dryness- Menopause contributes to sexual function changes through the decreases in ovarian hormone production and may lead to vaginal dryness and a decline in sexual function.
• Not enjoying activities, they used to enjoy
• Headaches/Migraines
• Irregular periods. As perimenopause begins, periods can come and go and get heavier or lighter at times. This can sometimes continue for several years during menopause
• Insomnia
• Dry skin and hair, or hair loss
• Joint pain: Hip pain, shoulder pain
• Brain fog or trouble with memory and concentration
• Bloating or weight gain around the abdomen or inability to lose weight
• Facial hair growth
• Urinary incontinence
• Decrease libido: decrease in sex drive begins in perimenopause or even earlier than this due to a decline in testosterone.
• Itching of the ears
• Worsening of vision/dry eyes
• Abdominal Fat “losing the waistline”
• High Blood Pressure

Gradual decline in testosterone levels. Unlike women, male hormones do not completely go away. However, testosterone levels decrease causing unwanted symptoms. More and more males are seeking testosterone replacement to improve their health and overall quality of life. In our practice we look at both total and free testosterone levels. Free testosterone levels determine if the total testosterone is not optimal for the individual patient. Some male patients may have higher estradiol (female hormone) levels than free testosterone, worsening symptoms. Our treatment plan is all-encompassing, touching on lifestyle, diet, exercise, and stress management as well as hormone replacement. We manage declining testosterone levels with nutraceuticals and supplements, including adaptogenic herbs that not only help balance your hormones but also boost your overall health. 

Symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Increase in belly fat
• Decreased muscle mass
• Decreased exercise endurance and recovery
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Decrease sex drive
• Impact on erections
• Insomnina
• Lack of motivation or focus
• Irritability