Top 10 Signs You Need A Perimenopause Specialist – Don’t Ignore These Symptoms

Don’t feel like yourself anymore?
So many symptoms and no answers?
You’re not going crazy; it could be perimenopause!

Perimenopause is a natural transition in a woman’s life that can last 7 to 10 years before menopause sets. It is misunderstood and not often thought about as a diagnosis. Many symptoms overlap with menopause however if a woman is still getting a period, no one thinks of it. Many women feel out of control and go to a variety of healthcare professionals who think it is stress, depression or just getting old.

It’s a time when the body undergoes significant hormonal changes, which can cause a variety of symptoms. These symptoms can impact daily life, relationships, your self-esteem and productivity, yet they are often overlooked or dismissed. If you’re experiencing these changes, it might be time to consult a physician who listens and understands the symptoms of perimenopause. Here are the top 10 signs you shouldn’t ignore.

1. Irregular Periods

One of the earliest and most common signs of perimenopause is a change in menstrual cycle regularity. You might notice periods that are shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter than usual. Tracking your cycle can help you identify patterns and discuss these changes with a specialist. These irregularities can affect your daily routine. Accidents and break through bleeding at the worst moments can leave you feeling uncertain and off balance.This can not only be embarrassing but it can be unpredictable and upsetting- not to mention ruining your clothing!

2. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

A hot flash can stop you in your tracks. In the middle of a conversation or presentation or trying to get a point across, the sudden feelings of warmth often accompanied by sweating and redness, can disrupt your flow and be embarrassing. It is a clear sign of hormonal fluctuations. These can occur during the day or night. They can disrupt sleep and cause discomfort. If hot flashes and night sweats are affecting your quality of life, it’s important to seek professional advice. Night sweats and/or hot flashes can particularly disrupt your sleep, leading to fatigue and affecting your mood and productivity during the day.

3. Mood Swings

A woman told me that her husband said she is unbearable. How hurtful it that? My best friend told me my personality changed. Hormone changes during perimenopause can lead to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even depression. Women feel out of control. If you find your emotions are more unpredictable or intense, it might be time to talk to a functional medicine physician who can offer strategies and treatments to help stabilize your mood. These mood swings can strain relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, and impact your self-esteem and confidence.Hormone balance is helpful to smooth out the mood swings so you can feel like yourself again.

4. Sleep Problems

Staring at the clock in the middle of the night? Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep can be tied to perimenopause. Sleep issues can exacerbate other symptoms like mood swings and fatigue. These are common perimenopause symptoms but can be due to many things. A physician who understands perimenopause can help identify the root cause of your sleep disturbances and recommend appropriate treatments. Poor sleep can leave you feeling exhausted, impairing your focus and productivity at work.

5. Fatigue

Persistent tiredness or a sense of never feeling fully rested can be a sign of hormonal imbalance. If you’re constantly feeling exhausted despite getting enough sleep, this kind of fatigue can make daily tasks seem overwhelming and decrease your overall quality of life. in perimenopause most women lack progesterone and this is a hormone of peace and calm. Progesterone can help you sleep. However, there are many reasons for fatigue. It’s worth discussing with a specialist who can help you get to the root cause and regain your energy levels.

6. Weight Gain and Changes in Body Composition

No matter what they do, women in perimenopause gain weight, particularly around the abdomen. This weight gain can be frustrating and difficult to manage with diet and exercise alone. A hormone specialist can provide insights into how hormonal changes affect weight and offer tailored advice to help manage it. Changes in body composition can affect your self-confidence and how you perceive yourself.You don’t need to feel demoralized. There is hope and help.

7.Decreased Libido and Sexual Dysfunction

Changes in hormone levels can tank your libido and cause vaginal dryness that can make intercourse uncomfortable. If these changes are impacting your relationship and quality of life, seeking help from a functional medicine doctor who understands perimenopause can make a significant difference. Addressing these issues can help maintain intimacy and strengthen relationships.

8. Cognitive Changes

Brain fog, memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating are common complaints during perimenopause. These cognitive changes can be unsettling but are often related to hormonal shifts. Seek help. You can address these issues and improve mental clarity. Cognitive changes can affect your work performance and self-confidence.

9. Bone and Joint and Muscle Pain

Bone loss starts to occur in perimenopause and most women wait until they are menopausal only to find that they have lost significant amount of bone. Hormonal changes can affect bone density and joint health, leading to aches, pains, and an increased risk of osteoporosis. If you’re experiencing unexplained muscle or joint pain or have concerns about your bone health, consult a functional medicine physician who is knowledgeable about perimenopause. Early intervention and prevention is critical to preserve bone, prevent fractures and feel good. Chronic pain can limit your physical activity and affect your overall well-being.

10. Skin and Hair Changes

You might notice more hair in your drain, changes in your skin and hair, such as dryness, thinning, or increased hair loss. These changes can be distressing, but these changes can be diagnosed and addressed. Seek help because a specialist can offer treatments and lifestyle adjustments, supplements and hormone balance to help maintain healthy skin and hair. Feeling good about your appearance can boost your self-esteem and confidence.

Why See a Functional Medicine Doctor who is a Perimenopause Specialist?

Perimenopause is a unique and highly individualized experience. A specialist in this field can offer a comprehensive approach to managing symptoms, tailored specifically to your needs. They can conduct thorough assessments, including hormone level testing, and provide a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and other therapies to help you navigate this transition more comfortably.

Take the First Step Towards Better Health

Ignoring the symptoms of perimenopause can lead to unnecessary discomfort and a lower quality of life. By recognizing these signs and seeking the help of a functional medicine doctor, you can take proactive steps to manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. Apply for a no obligation clarity call to see if we are a good fit.

Functional medicine practitioners who focus on perimenopause are equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you understand and address the root causes of your symptoms. Don’t wait—take charge of your health and find the support you need to thrive during this transition.

Aging gracefully and maintaining a high quality of life during perimenopause is possible. By understanding the signs and seeking specialized care, you can navigate this transition with confidence and ease.

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