Navigating Perimenopause & Menopause with Functional Medicine

Perimenopause and menopause are natural transitions in a woman’s life, but they can bring a range of disruptive symptoms that impact daily well-being. From hormonal fluctuations to changes in body composition and mood, these shifts can feel overwhelming. At Functional Medicine at Columbus OBGYN, we take a functional medicine approach to help you manage perimenopause and menopause by addressing the root causes of your symptoms—so you can feel balanced, energized, and in control of your health.

Understanding Perimenopause & Menopause

Perimenopause

Typically begins in a woman’s 40s (sometimes earlier) and can last up to 7 to 10 years before the last menstrual period, when postmenopause begins. During this time, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, leading to irregular periods and a variety of symptoms.

Menopause

is defined as 12 consecutive months without a period, marking the end of reproductive years. Estrogen and progesterone levels decline, often bringing lasting hormonal changes.

Common Symptoms of Perimenopause & Menopause

Women may experience:

  • Irregular or heavy periods
  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
  • Sleep disturbances and fatigue
  • Weight gain and changes in metabolism and body composition
  • Brain fog and memory issues
  • Vaginal dryness and low libido
  • Joint pain and muscle aches
  • Urinary frequency, urgency and incontinence

Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying factors contributing to your symptoms. Explore our approach to care for an overview of what to expect during your visit. Some key areas we evaluate include:

How Functional Medicine Supports Perimenopause & Menopause

Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying factors contributing to your symptoms. Our approach is thorough yet efficient, prioritizing nutrition and lifestyle changes before reviewing lab work.

 Some key areas we evaluate include:

Hormonal balance

We assess estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol levels to understand imbalances and create a tailored treatment plan.

Nutritional support

Diet plays a major role in hormone regulation. We focus on optimizing nutrition to reduce inflammation, stabilize blood sugar, and support metabolism.

Gut health

The gut microbiome influences estrogen metabolism, digestion, and immune function, making gut health a crucial aspect of treatment.

Stress management

Chronic stress can worsen perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms by increasing cortisol levels. We provide tools to help regulate stress responses.

Sleep optimization

Quality sleep is essential for hormone regulation. We address underlying causes of sleep disturbances to improve rest and recovery.

Take Control of Your Menopausal Health

Menopause is a natural transition, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through uncomfortable symptoms. With a functional medicine approach, we focus on empowering you with the tools and strategies to feel your best through every stage of life.

Schedule an appointment with our Functional Medicine Provider – Laura L. Houser, M.D. today to start your personalized journey toward hormonal balance and lasting well-being.