As a patient-focused compounding pharmacy, we often have people come to us seeking guidance on how to manage the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. We welcome their questions about how these changes can affect their daily lives. While perimenopause and menopause are certainly natural stages in a woman’s life, they come with a variety of physical and emotional symptoms that can sometimes be overwhelming. Understanding these transitions and knowing about the solutions available through compounding pharmacies can help ease the journey.
What Are Perimenopause and Menopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional phase that eventually leads to full menopause. While perimenopause typically starts in a woman’s 40s, it can certainly begin earlier or later. During this time hormone levels fluctuate, leading to irregular periods and a range of other symptoms—hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings and sleep disturbances. This phase can last anywhere from a few months to several years, and the symptoms may vary widely from person to person.
When a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months she has entered menopause, marking the end of her reproductive years. The average age of menopause in the U.S. is 51, but again, it can happen earlier or later. Once a woman reaches menopause, the body produces lower levels of estrogen and progesterone, and this can cause symptoms like changes in libido, vaginal dryness, hot flashes and more.
Common Symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause
Menopausal symptoms can disrupt daily life in various ways. The hot flashes and night sweats can cause sudden discomfort (and perhaps intense sweating) that will disturb sleep. Mood swings and anxiety may arise as a consequence of hormonal shifts, leading to irritability or depression. Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort during intercourse, while sleep problems in general make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep.
As hormone levels also affect sexual desire, many women suffer with decreased libido. Brain fog can make it difficult to focus, leading to concentration and memory issues. Finally, skin and hair changes such as dryness and thinning are also common due to hormonal fluctuations. Thankfully, understanding these symptoms is key to finding effective relief.
Solutions for Managing Perimenopause and Menopause Symptoms
At Eli Pharmacy we focus on providing evidence-based solutions to manage menopausal symptoms effectively. Appropriate treatment options might include a prescription from a pharmacy near you and non-pharmaceutical options such as lifestyle changes.
- Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
A popular treatment for managing menopausal symptoms is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). BHRT uses hormones that are chemically identical to those the body naturally produces such as estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. These hormone formulations can be customized for each individual, depending on their specific needs.
The benefits of BHRT include the following.
Personalized Treatment – BHRT can be tailored to suit individual hormone levels, making it a flexible, customizable option.
Reduced Side Effects – Since the hormones in BHRT are identical to those produced by the body, fewer side effects may be expected (when compared with synthetic hormone therapies).
Relief From Common Symptoms – BHRT can help alleviate hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings, and other common menopausal symptoms.
It’s important to note that while BHRT can be effective, it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Regular monitoring of hormone levels is essential to ensure effectiveness and safety.
- Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to medications, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the severity of menopausal symptoms.
Diet – A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help support overall health. Foods like soy (which contains phytoestrogens) may help alleviate some symptoms.
Exercise – Regular physical activity can reduce stress, improve mood, help with weight management and more.
Stress Management – Practices such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises can help manage anxiety and improve sleep.
Adequate Sleep – Developing a consistent sleep routine and creating a cool, comfortable sleep environment can reduce night sweats and improve sleep quality.
Perimenopause and menopause are significant life transitions, but with the right support and treatment options, women can manage their symptoms effectively. The team at Eli Pharmacy encourages patients to have open discussions with their healthcare providers about their symptoms and treatment preferences.
Get Relief From the Top Compounding Pharmacy Near Atlanta
Whether through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, conventional HRT, non-hormonal treatments or lifestyle modifications, there are many ways to navigate the stages of perimenopause and menopause with confidence and ease. Call Eli Pharmacy at (678) 835-9997 or contact us with questions today.
