Understanding Perimenopause, Menopause & Postmenopause: Hormone Swings, Symptoms & What to Do
Hormonal changes during midlife are normal, but that doesn’t mean they should be disruptive. Whether you're in perimenopause, menopause, or postmenopause, your body is sending signals that deserve attention, not dismissal. Here’s how to recognize the stage you're in and what steps you can take to feel better.
🌸 What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional stage before menopause. It typically starts in your late 30s or 40s and can last for several years. During this time, estrogen and progesterone fluctuate unpredictably, leading to a wide range of symptoms.
Common Signs of Perimenopause:
Irregular periods (shorter, longer, heavier, or skipped)
Breast tenderness
Mood swings or irritability
Sleep disturbances
Fatigue or brain fog
Hot flashes and night sweats
Decreased libido or vaginal dryness
What You Can Do:
Track symptoms and cycle changes to identify patterns
Use magnesium glycinate or L-theanine for sleep and mood support
Ask about bioidentical progesterone or herbal support like chasteberry
Consider lab testing for hormone levels if symptoms are persistent
💚 What Is Menopause?
Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period. It usually occurs between ages 45 and 55. Estrogen and progesterone production declines significantly, leading to more noticeable symptoms.
Common Signs of Menopause:
Frequent or severe hot flashes
Vaginal dryness, thinning tissues
Weight gain or slowed metabolism
Mood changes or anxiety
Insomnia or early morning waking
Joint stiffness
What You Can Do:
Consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT) if appropriate
Use vaginal estradiol or DHEA for dryness and libido
Try black cohosh or ashwagandha for hot flashes
Prioritize resistance training and protein for muscle support
🌿 What Is Postmenopause?
Postmenopause is the life stage after menopause. Symptoms may ease for some women, but others continue to experience lingering or new health concerns due to low hormone levels.
Common Signs of Postmenopause:
Persistent vaginal dryness or painful sex
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder discomfort
Bone loss or osteopenia
Thinning skin and hair loss
Ongoing fatigue or low libido
What You Can Do:
Use ongoing vaginal hormone support to protect tissues
Ask your provider about testosterone for libido and energy
Incorporate calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise
Maintain regular check-ins and update your wellness plan as needed
🌈 You Deserve Personalized Support
At Eternal Beauty Med Spa, we don’t believe in cookie-cutter care. Our Eternal Vitality Reset Series helps you navigate each phase of hormonal transition with smart, science-based tools — including lab testing, personalized supplements, and targeted prescriptions when appropriate.
📅 Ready to understand your hormones and feel like yourself again? Book a virtual or in-person wellness consult today online or call 925-326-6611 and get the support you need at every stage of womanhood.
