The onset of menopause marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles and fertility. The transition to menopause, known as perimenopause, usually begins in the late 30s to early 50s as the ovaries start to produce less of the key female hormones - estrogen and progesterone. This decline in hormones leads to changes and sometimes bothersome symptoms that can significantly impact one's quality of life.
Some key facts about menopause:
Many women experience symptoms leading up to and continuing after their final period. Common menopausal symptoms include:
Leaving menopausal hormone issues unchecked is not recommended and can lead to additional health problems over time including:
Hormone changes may also put some women more at risk for issues like urinary incontinence or infections if vaginal tissues become too thin and dry.
Mental health challenges may develop or worsen as well during this transition, especially anxiety and depression. Poor mood and sleep from hot flashes compound these issues.
Identifying and properly treating menopausal symptoms keeps women feeling their best and reduces risks of developing other medical conditions later on.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) involves supplementing the body with lab-made hormones that are molecularly identical to naturally occurring ones in women. This helps restore optimal hormonal balance to alleviate unpleasant menopause symptoms.
The custom-compounded hormones used at Vital Hormones Clinic in Pflugerville include:
Combined hormone therapy with both an estrogen and a progestogen is the most common. But the Vital Hormones Clinic also offers adjusted ratios and amounts based on the individual's needs and health factors.
Custom BHRT provides the following advantages over traditional hormone replacement:
In addition to relieving unpleasant symptoms, balancing hormones with BHRT can also:
The first step is always having hormone levels tested to identify any imbalances or deficiencies. This establishes a baseline to compare future changes to.
Initial blood tests check levels of key hormones like estradiol, testosterone and FSH. Thyroid hormones should be screened as well since they regulate metabolism. Vitamin D is also important for bone health and immune functioning.
The providers at Vital Hormones Clinic will go over lab results and make treatment recommendations during the first consultation. They can prescribe systemic oral pills, patches, gels or localized creams depending on what matches each woman's needs and preferences best.
Some treatment protocols often include:
Timing matters when it comes to managing menopausal hormones. The earlier treatment begins after symptoms develop, the more likely it is to prevent long term complications like bone density loss. Starting therapy within 5 years of menopause onset gives the best protection.
At Vital Hormones Clinic, patients benefit from highly trained menopause specialists guiding their treatment plans. The expert physicians and nurses stay abreast of the latest research and regularly attend advanced training seminars. So patients can trust their symptomatic relief protocols are state-of-the-art.
"The knowledgeable doctors made me feel comfortable starting hormone therapy. I'm so glad I came here first before trying to tough it out." - Michelle, Vital Hormones Clinic Patient
A surprising new menopause treatment is spearmint tea. Multiple studies have found that drinking two cups of spearmint tea per day can significantly reduce hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms in just 30 days due to natural compounds that act similarly to estrogen without side effects.
While hormone replacement aims to balance levels of key sex hormones, making certain lifestyle adjustments better supports overall menopause relief and health during this transition:
Some local hot spots that complement hormone therapy by promoting health and quality of life include:
Pflugerville Recreation Center
This modern rec center right in Pflugerville offers workout classes, gym equipment, pools, walking trails and recreational teams catering to all ages and abilities. Specialized senior fitness programs are available too.
Lake Pflugerville Park
Escape to nature with nearly 200 acres of trails encircling this glistening lake right in town. Walking, jogging and biking routes range from 1-3 miles in distance. Picnic areas and playgrounds provide places to unwind.
Zenaluna Modern Wellness Spa
Pamper yourself at this relaxing local spa offering massages, facials, body treatments and salon services that promote whole body balance through therapeutic touch and natural products. The soothing atmosphere melts stress away.
Brass Tap Craft Beer Bar
Catch up with old friends or make new ones over tasty, locally-brewed craft beers at this hip neighborhood pub. The lengthy beer list offers interesting flavors to suit any palate while the menu features healthy salads and lean proteins.
Hormone changes during perimenopause and menopause don't just affect the body - mood and cognition may also be impacted. The reasons are twofold:
At Vital Hormones Clinic, supporting emotional wellbeing is viewed as an equally important part of menopause treatment as relieving physical symptoms. Patients are screened for signs of depression and anxiety issues during consultations. Referrals can be made to licensed counselors or therapists in the local Pflugerville area as needed.
Ongoing social support is also key for many women navigating challenging menopausal hormone changes. Participating in community workshops or talking through concerns with others going through similar experiences helps alleviate feelings of frustration, sadness or isolation.
The Vital Hormones Clinic staff strives to address the whole patient - mind, body and spirit. An integrative approach allows women to transition through menopause feeling empowered, understood and in control.
What sets the Pflugerville Vital Hormones Clinic apart is:
In addition to expert symptom relief protocols, patients also appreciate the cozy office environment and accessibility of the Pflugerville location. Convenient appointment times make it easy to fit visits into busy family or work schedules.
Come experience the Vital Hormones Clinic difference for yourself during a free consultation. The comprehensive care, tailored treatment options and welcoming staff will help you feel balanced, empowered and understood during the menopausal transition.
