Your period is changing, you’re suddenly waking up in the middle of the night sweaty, your mood feels all over the place, and you’re wondering whether you’re “too young” for menopause. First, take a breath because there is actually a transition period before menopause called perimenopause, and it can come with its own set of fun changes.

In this article, we’ll talk about the difference between perimenopause and menopause, symptoms you may experience, and what you should know about hormone therapy near New Braunfels, TX.

What Is the Difference Between Perimenopause and Menopause?

This is where things can get confusing. Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause. During this time, your hormone levels begin changing, but you may still have periods.

Menopause is typically diagnosed after you have gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, assuming there isn’t another medical reason causing your periods to stop.

So yes, you can absolutely be experiencing menopause-related symptoms before you’ve officially reached menopause. Awesome, right?

What Hormone Changes Happen During Perimenopause?

Your hormones don’t necessarily follow a nice, predictable path during perimenopause. Estrogen and progesterone levels can fluctuate as your body moves closer to menopause.

That can help explain why you may feel completely normal one month and then suddenly wonder what in the world is happening to your body the next.

What Symptoms Can You Experience During This Transition?

Every woman’s experience can be a little different. You may notice your periods becoming irregular, heavier, lighter, longer, or shorter than what you’re used to.

Other symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep changes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. You may experience several symptoms, just one, or changes that come and go throughout the transition.

Katie Camplen, APRN, CNM, WHNP-BC, is a provider at Lake Landing Aesthetics & Wellness who specializes in women’s health. Having a consultation with her to talk through the new symptoms you’ve been experiencing may help you better understand what’s happening and what treatment options may be available to you.

When Should You Talk to a Provider About Your Symptoms?

You don’t need to wait until your symptoms become completely unbearable before bringing them up with a medical provider.

If your cycle suddenly seems unpredictable, you’re waking up drenched in sweat, or you simply don’t feel like yourself lately, those are things worth discussing. Your provider can look at the bigger picture, including your symptoms and health history, and help determine what may be going on.

Even if you’re unsure whether what you’re experiencing is actually related to perimenopause, having the conversation can be a good starting point.

What Should You Know About HRT During Perimenopause and Menopause?

Hormone replacement therapy may be one treatment option for certain symptoms during perimenopause and menopause, but it isn’t automatically right for everyone.

At Lake Landing Aesthetics & Wellness, the medical team can talk with you about what you’ve been experiencing, review your health history, and discuss whether hormone therapy or another treatment option may be appropriate for you.

This is one of those situations where your friend’s treatment plan doesn’t necessarily need to become your treatment plan. Your symptoms, medical history, and individual health risks matter when deciding whether HRT is right for you.

Where Can You Find Hormone Therapy Near New Braunfels, TX?

If you’re looking for hormone therapy near New Braunfels, Lake Landing Aesthetics & Wellness in Spring Branch is a nearby option. Their team provides menopause and hormone therapy services for women who want to better understand their symptoms and available treatment options.

If you’re ready to better understand your symptoms and treatment options, schedule a consultation with Lake Landing Aesthetics & Wellness by calling 726-233-8978 or booking directly online.