Menopause signals a transition period in a woman's life, marking the end of her reproductive years. While a natural process, menopause brings unpleasant symptoms that can disrupt daily living. At Balance Hormone Clinic in Glenview, we offer customized treatment plans to help women address hormone changes and improve quality of life.
The hallmark sign of menopause is when a woman has gone 12 months without a period. This signals that the ovaries have stopped releasing eggs. It typically begins in a woman's late 40s to early 50s. Other key symptoms stem from declining estrogen levels and include:
Menopause does not happen abruptly - it's a gradual transition. Some factors that influence its timing and severity include:
Left untreated, declining hormones long-term raise risks for other health issues like:
The uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms also take a toll on personal relationships and performance at work. It becomes vital to address changes proactively.
Rather than chalking up unpleasant symptoms to "normal aging", we emphasize undergoing thorough lab testing at the first signs of menopause. Key reasons this is vital:
Blood and saliva tests assess current hormone levels to reveal deficiencies. We particularly look at estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA-S, T3, T4, and TSH. Results indicate which specific hormones need support.
With lab findings, we can tailor hormone replacement regimens to individual needs instead of taking a one-size-fits-all approach. This includes selecting appropriate dosages, formulations, and routes of administration.
Follow-up tests at regular intervals enable gauging treatment effectiveness and adjusting plans accordingly. Symptom improvement and avoiding side effects are priorities.
Research confirms properly administered hormone therapy can help strengthen bones, stabilize cholesterol levels, ease urogenital atrophy, enhance cognitive skills, and improve intimacy - all of which support better long-term wellbeing.
By accurately assessing and addressing hormone deficits early on, women can receive the necessary support and reduce preventable health risks down the road. At Balance Hormone Clinic, determining optimal treatment is our specialty.
Hormone therapy remains the gold standard for relieving unpleasant menopause symptoms. At Balance Hormone Clinic, we offer both systemic and localized options to suit each woman's needs:
Oral tablets and transdermal patches that deliver estradiol throughout the body are convenient methods to address widespread symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness plus support heart, bone, and brain health long term. Progestogens are combined to provide endometrial protection when a uterus is still present.
Made from plant sources to mimic the body's hormones, these customized preparations can closely restore declining levels. Available as pills, creams, or injectables, they are frequently used for estrogen, progesterone and testosterone therapy.
Directly applied to vaginal tissues, these localized treatments reverse atrophy and inflammation effectively to relieve painful intercourse and irritation without significant systemic absorption.
Concentrated hormones compressed into very small capsules are inserted under the skin through a quick, minimally invasive office procedure. The pellets dissolve slowly to provide steady-state delivery for 3-6 months, eliminating daily dosing.
We will determine through diagnostic lab tests and evaluation of lifestyle factors which hormone therapy method - or combination - can provide optimal, lasting relief tailored to each woman’s health status.
Along with hormone therapy, making certain lifestyle adjustments during menopause and beyond can help ease the transition while supporting treatment benefits:
Eating antioxidant-rich colorful fruits/vegetables, high quality fats like olive oil or avocados for vitamin E, anti-inflammatory spices, and lean protein promotes hormonal balance and feeling one’s best. We recommend working with our onsite nutritionist.
Relaxation practices like yoga, deep breathing, enjoyable hobbies, sufficient sleep and addressing emotional health supports the body’s equilibrium and response to treatment. Consider adding massage or acupuncture therapies.
Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening fitness along with balance/posture work protects bone density while also stimulating circulation, mood enhancement, restful sleep and mental sharpness - all bolstering hormone health.
Following nutritious dietary patterns, managing stress, staying active, getting quality sleep, and tending to emotional needs all complement the benefits of tailored hormone replacement therapy. Our providers can offer guidance to help optimize results.
Studies show that regular yoga practice can ease many menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings. Yoga incorporates gentle poses, breathing techniques, and meditation which help relax the body and mind. This drug-free, accessible therapy provides women an alternative way to relieve common menopause issues without negative side effects.
For those undergoing treatment in our Glenview clinic, we have compiled a list of helpful local establishments that support therapy success:
Glenview boasts many amenities perfect for recharging, decompressing, staying active, and eating well - all things that nicely complement menopause treatment regimens during this transitional life stage. Our knowledgeable providers stand ready to guide and support you. Please
