Are Your Hormones Changing? Here’s What is Happening
Are you feeling hot and bothered but oddly chilly at the same time? Are you getting more easily frustrated than usual and like your hormones are out of whack? If so, you may be in the midst of menopause. Menopause is a natural process that all women go through as they enter middle age.
While hormones can throw off your balance during this time, it doesn’t have to derail your life. Read on to understand what is happening to cause these hormone changes so that you can better understand what’s going on and how to manage them.
Are Your Hormones Changing?
The most important thing to do when your hormones start to change is to take inventory of the symptoms you’re experiencing. Track any changes in mood, energy levels, skin problems, sleep patterns, libido, and more. This information can help you and your doctor determines if it’s menopause or something else that’s causing your symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Perimenopause
As your body changes due to hormonal fluctuations, you might experience a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms. Here are some of the most common signs that you’re entering or going through perimenopause.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
Hot flashes are one of the most commonly reported perimenopausal symptoms. Hot flashes are sudden feelings of intense heat that can affect your face, chest, back, and neck. They typically last from 30 seconds up to 10 minutes and often occur during sleep, resulting in night sweats. While hot flashes can feel uncomfortable, they’re temporary and will eventually go away as your hormones begin to stabilize.
Irregular Periods
As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause, women often experience irregular periods—anovulatory cycles—which can include periods that are too light or too heavy than the usual flow. In addition to anovulation (when the ovaries do not release an egg), women may also experience shorter or longer menstrual cycles than normal. These irregularities typically become more pronounced as estrogen levels drop further during menopause.
Mood Swings
Mood swings are another common symptom experienced by many women during menopause, and they’re usually linked to hormonal fluctuations caused by lower estrogen levels. Mood swings can cause depression, anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and other emotional changes that may lead to difficulty sleeping at night, leading to daytime exhaustion or drowsiness. Fortunately, several treatments available can help reduce mood swings during perimenopause and menopause.
Other symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Joint pain
- Insomnia
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Breast tenderness
- Vaginal dryness
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Memory lapses or confusion
How Can you Tame the Symptoms
There are several ways you can manage the physical and emotional symptoms of menopause, including:
- Exercise regularly to maintain muscle strength and bone health while also improving your mood and reducing stress
- Eat a balanced diet including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and limited amounts of processed foods
- Get enough sleep by setting a regular bedtime routine that includes winding down before bed with calming activities such as yoga or reading
- Reduce stress levels by practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
- Talk to your doctor about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or alternative treatments such as yoga, acupuncture, and herbal supplements to help reduce symptoms and improve your overall quality of life
- Don’t be afraid to lean on support systems during this change. Reach out to family members and friends who can offer emotional comfort and practical advice, or join a menopausal support group if available in your area
Can Hormone Therapy Help with Hormonal Changes?
Yes, hormone therapy is one way to help manage the symptoms of menopause. It works by replacing the hormones that decline as you age. Talk to your doctor about whether hormone therapy is right for you and what form might be most beneficial.
Be Informed About Your Hormonal Changing!
There are a lot of hormonal changes that happen during the aging process. Some of these changes are beneficial, while others can be detrimental to your health. That’s why it’s important to stay on top of your hormone levels as you age and to talk to a doctor if you notice any changes.
If you’re looking for a trusted source of information about hormone therapy, don’t hesitate to contact us at CleopatraRX. We have a team of experts who can help you understand your options and make the best decision for your health. Fill out the form below to get started!