The onset of menopause signals the end of a woman's reproductive years. It is diagnosed after 12 months without a menstrual period. Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. The average age is 51 in the United States.^1^ When menstrual cycles become irregular and eventually stop, the ovaries produce lower levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormonal changes associated with menopause can impact a woman's physical and emotional health. Receiving proper care and treatment can help minimize discomforts and reduce long-term health risks.
Fluctuating hormone levels affect every woman differently. Some of the most common changes and symptoms associated with menopause include:^2^
In addition to bothersome symptoms affecting quality of life, the hormonal changes of menopause have been associated with increased risks for certain medical conditions later in life, including:^3^
Getting proper menopause care to manage symptoms, replace depleted hormones, and monitor long-term health can help minimize these risks.
There are a number of lifestyle adjustments and home remedies that can provide relief from troublesome menopause symptoms:
Making positive lifestyle changes can provide relief, but the most effective way to manage menopause symptoms and long-term health is to directly address the underlying hormone deficiencies with professional care and treatment.
Many women are unaware that certain lifestyle changes can help ease menopausal symptoms. Regular exercise, stress management techniques, and a healthy diet with lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains have all been shown to reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings during menopause. Simple steps like these can dramatically improve quality of life for women going through "the change."
Women experiencing moderate to severe menopause symptoms are candidates for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to replenish depleted estrogen and progesterone. The benefits and risks of HRT should be carefully considered and discussed with a menopause specialist.
When administered appropriately, hormone therapy can:^4,5^
Hormone testing is recommended to accurately determine which hormones are low and need replacing. Saliva, blood, or urine tests can measure levels of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, and other hormones.
Bioidentical hormones are identical in chemical structure to those naturally produced by the body. Custom-compounded creams, gels, pills, pellets, patches, and vaginal inserts can be prescribed in precise dosages to restore optimal hormone balance specific to each woman based on her lab testing.
Close medical supervision and follow-up testing is important when starting hormone therapy to ensure proper hormone levels are achieved to maximize benefits and minimize potential risks. Annual pelvic exams, pap smears, and mammograms are also critically important.
Finding an experienced menopause specialist to provide comprehensive testing, diagnosis, and ongoing monitoring ensures safe and effective treatment.
Not all healthcare providers have the specialized training and expertise required to properly diagnose and treat hormone imbalances. Menopause medicine encompasses cosmetic symptoms as well as complex hormone and endocrine disorders affecting long-term health.
Ideal credentials for a menopause specialist include:
A holistic, natural approach focused on bioidentical hormones, lifestyle optimization, high quality supplements, and preventive health screening provides the most comprehensive support through menopause and beyond.
The Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic Menopause Center in Santa Ana provides personalized care and effective solutions to help women enjoy a symptom-free, energized, and healthy transition into the second stage of life.
Dr. Jane Doe, founder and medical director of Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic, is a board-certified OB/GYN and functional medicine practitioner with over 15 years' experience specializing in menopause and hormonal wellness. She is a member of NAMS and A4M.
Dr. Doe and her staff offer comprehensive testing, precise bioidentical hormones, nutrition plans, and lifestyle counseling tailored to each woman's individual needs. Support services at Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic include:
The goal is to provide complete care for the optimal health of each woman as she transitions through perimenopause and menopause into her 50s and beyond. Feel your best and reduce risk for long-term disease by seeking professional menopause care at Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic in Santa Ana.
The coastal climate of Santa Ana and Southern California offers mostly mild temperatures throughout the year. Winters average 60°F during the daytime with cooler nights around 45°F. Summer highs are in the mid 70s to low 80s.^7^
This temperate climate can help minimize hot flashes and night sweats. The warmer summer months may produce more symptoms for some women. Keeping cool with air conditioning, clothing layers, cooling gels, chilled beverages, and eating spicy food in moderation can help.
The sunny skies in Santa Ana provide abundant opportunities to spend time outdoors walking, cycling, golfing, or lounging at the beach - all great ways to manage stress, get vitamin D, and stay active.
Local fitness centers like Vibez Fitness, Core Power Yoga, and Spectrum Club offer great options to incorporate strength training, cardio, and stretching into your routine. Consider joining classes like Zumba, pilates, cycling, or water aerobics tailored to women over 40.
Healthy dining options abound in Santa Ana to support optimal nutrition during menopause. Visit establishments like The Night Owl, Fable & Spirit, and The Crooked Duck that emphasize farm fresh, organic cuisine. Be mindful of making smart choices when dining out and minimize consumption of sweets, refined carbs, and alcohol.
Take some well-deserved "me time" relaxing at one of Santa Ana's tranquil spas like Avani Spa, Ritual Day Spa, or Shoreline Massage. Schedule a soothing facial, massage, seaweed wrap, or guided meditation session.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of menopause and hormonal imbalance, don't wait to receive proper testing, diagnosis, and treatment from a specialist like Dr. Doe at Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic in Santa Ana. You deserve to feel your best during this transition and reduce risks to your long-term wellbeing. Now is the time to take charge of your health and embrace a vibrant second act!
