Everyone talks about what to expect during pregnancy and the first year of a child’s life, but few women are aware and few allopathic providers are talking about what to expect in perimenopause, which is why it is vital to increase awareness and inspire action. Most women enter perimenopause in their 40’s, but changes can begin as early as mid to late 30’s. These changes and symptoms can begin up to 10 years before menopause. Perimenopausal women may experience none, some, or all of the following symptoms: 

While this list can seem daunting, having an understanding of perimenopause can help clarify what is happening in your body. As perimenopause begins, estrogen begins to fluctuate greatly which creates irregular periods. The decreased estrogen in your body can also contribute to pelvic pain and vaginal dryness, because estrogen is a key player in keeping the vaginal canal plump and lubricated. As estrogen continues to decrease, the vaginal tissue can atrophy and become thin. Once closer to menopause, estrogen levels decrease significantly. Twelve months or more of no periods means you are officially in menopause. 

It is also important to have a plan of action if and when you start having symptoms, because you should not have to suffer through it. The symptoms can be managed! One of the most important and often forgotten ways you can help yourself during perimenopause is to come to Pelvic Physical Therapy with Dr. Madelyn. She uses traditional pelvic PT modalities such as manual therapy and therapeutic exercise while also using Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) in all of her treatment sessions to address symptoms such as brain fog, headaches, libido changes, mood, and all bladder and pelvic issues. 

Your plan could also include seeing your healthcare provider to check hormone levels and manage any mood shifts. Bioidentical hormone replacement, regular exercise, restful sleep, limiting alcohol, and a healthy diet with plenty of protein and Omega 3’s can help alleviate many of the symptoms that arise. Having a good support system with friends, family, and your health care team can make all the difference between suffering through unwelcome symptoms and thriving into this new phase of your life. 

Perimenopause can cause significant changes in your life that can make you feel out of control in your body, but at The Healing Collective, Dr. Madelyn is here to help you navigate those changes as you embrace the transition and take back your power.

or call 720-572-5236 to schedule with Dr. Madelyn today.