Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, is often synonymous with hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. While these are indeed common symptoms, they merely scratch the surface of what women can experience during this transformative time.
In functional medicine we see the many unexpected challenges women face, and we want to shed light on seven lesser-known symptoms that could be impact your quality of life.
Understanding Perimenopause
Before delving into the symptoms, it’s important to understand what perimenopause is. As women approach menopause, their ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone. This hormonal shift can disrupt various bodily functions, leading to a wide range of symptoms.
Seven Unexpected Symptoms of Perimenopause
- Vaginal Dryness: Often overlooked, vaginal dryness can significantly impact a woman’s sexual health and overall well-being. It’s caused by a decrease in estrogen, which reduces lubrication. This dryness can lead to discomfort, pain during intercourse, and recurrent urinary tract infections.
- Unexplained Weight Gain: It’s frustrating to see the scale creep up despite maintaining your diet and exercise routine. Perimenopause can contribute to weight gain due to hormonal fluctuations, metabolic changes, and increased cortisol levels.
- Headaches and Migraines: Hormonal shifts can trigger or worsen headaches and migraines. Estrogen plays a role in regulating blood vessels, and its decline can lead to vascular changes that contribute to these painful conditions.
- Lower Alcohol Tolerance: You might notice that you can’t handle your usual amount of alcohol as well as before. Perimenopause-related hormonal changes can affect how your body metabolizes alcohol, leading to increased sensitivity and more pronounced side effects.
- Food Sensitivities: Some women develop new food sensitivities or intolerances during perimenopause. These can lead to a range of symptoms, from bloating and gas to more severe reactions. Hormonal changes can influence gut health and immune function, contributing to these sensitivities.
- Heart Palpitations: Feeling like your heart is racing or skipping beats can be alarming. While occasional palpitations are normal, persistent symptoms could be related to hormonal fluctuations.
- Changes in Hair and Skin: As estrogen levels decline, you might notice changes in your hair and skin. Hair thinning, dryness, and loss of elasticity can occur.
A Functional Medicine Approach
Functional medicine takes a holistic approach to address the root causes of health issues rather than simply treating symptoms. When it comes to perimenopause, this approach involves:
- Comprehensive Assessment: A thorough evaluation using a series of advanced diagnostic tests, including your medical history, lifestyle, and diet, to identify underlying imbalances.
- Hormone Testing: Assessing hormone levels to determine the extent of hormonal fluctuations and their impact on your symptoms.
- Nutritional Optimization: Implementing a personalized nutrition plan to support hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, and optimize overall health.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating stress management techniques, regular exercise, and adequate sleep to promote well-being.
- Supplementation: Targeted supplements are recommended to address specific nutrient deficiencies and support hormonal balance.
By working closely with a functional medicine practitioner, you can create a personalized plan to manage perimenopause symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember, perimenopause is a natural phase of life, but with the right support, you can navigate it with grace and resilience.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Nour Amri is a Licensed Integrative Nutritionist, a Certified Nutrition Specialist, and a Certified Ketogenic Nutrition Specialist. She earned her Master’s degree from the Maryland University of Integrative Health. She also received her certification for mind-body medicine facilitation from Georgetown University School of Medicine. In her approach, Nour applies the principles of Integrative and Functional Nutrition, which emphasize healthy eating personalized to the client’s genetics, environment, lifestyle, and health concerns.