I just hosted a webinar on menopause and covered the basics of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). It’s a fantastic option that everyone with a uterus should know exists.

Should Everyone Use HRT?

Not necessarily. There’s really nothing besides getting quality sleep and drinking water that everyone should do. HRT offers some incredible benefits and can be highly effective for specific menopause symptoms. However, not everyone feels good on HRT, and some may not be able or want to use it. Talking to a qualified HRT provider can help you understand what’s best for *your* body.

Are There Other Ways to Treat Perimenopause Symptoms?

Absolutely! Whether you choose HRT or not, it’s essential to explore ways to support your health through diet and lifestyle adjustments. Are these a magic bullet? No, because there is no magic bullet in health. Your body is an ecosystem with many small inputs and outputs that contribute to how you feel.

By now, you know how crucial sleep, movement, eating, and stress support are to your metabolic health and quality of life. These are the pillars of health at any age. Ignoring them can make medications and supplements less effective, impact your quality of life, and shorten your health span – the years you spend in good health – even if your lifespan is long. Personally, I want to stay active and engaged until the very end, rather than merely existing.

Are There Helpful Supplements?

Yes! Adaptogens, a category of herbs, work particularly well during perimenopause because they support adrenal health. As your body adjusts to lower hormone levels (like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone), your stress resilience can also shift, often becoming more cortisol dominant. Adaptogens help regulate this.

One popular option is maca, a root from Peru traditionally used to support perimenopausal symptoms. Research shows maca can help reduce menopausal symptoms and may benefit cardiovascular and bone health. Ashwagandha and Schisandra are also excellent choices for stress resilience and focus.

Building a Support Team

Supporting your body through perimenopause and menopause often requires a team approach. Here’s a rundown of who might be in that support network:

OB-GYN or Endocrinologist: Look for someone in your insurance plan with post-medical school training in menopause. The Menopause Society has a directory of specialists.

Functional Practitioner: These practitioners take a whole-body systems approach, integrating diet, lifestyle, and supplements. Some can prescribe hormones and medications (MD, NP, PA). I’m biased, but I truly believe everyone could benefit from working with a functional practitioner.

Herbalist: Look for someone certified by the American Herbalist Guild for support with herbal options.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) or Ayurvedic Practitioner: Practitioners in these fields can offer additional holistic support, often with a focus on balancing energy and supporting the body’s natural cycles.

Many practitioners are trained and ready to help you navigate this transition. The key is to find someone who aligns with your values and the type of support you want. Looking for functional support and guidance on how to support your body? Book a free 15-minute call today.