What is Perimenopause?
A woman will spend an average of 7 to 10 years in perimenopause and over one-third of her life in menopause. These years should not be a time of decline—they deserve to be vibrant, empowering, and deeply fulfilling! At Samskara, we specialize in guiding women through these transformative phases with personalized care that helps you thrive.
In simple terms, perimenopause marks a period of hormonal shifts characterized by fluctuating estrogen levels and progressive declines in progesterone and testosterone. This phase can begin as early as age 35, lasting up to a decade before your final menstrual period. Once you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period, you’ve officially reached menopause. While these hormonal changes follow a general biological pattern, every woman’s journey through perimenopause and menopause is uniquely her own.
Your experience during this transition is shaped by many factors—genetics, diet, physical activity, body composition, reproductive history, and even cultural views on aging. Samskara understands these complexities and offers tailored solutions, including hormone optimization, lifestyle interventions, and metabolic health strategies to address your specific needs.
Unlike other conditions that can be diagnosed through a single test, perimenopause is identified by understanding your symptoms, medical history, and overall well-being. At Samskara, we prioritize your lived experience, combining it with advanced diagnostic tools when necessary. While hormone testing isn’t mandatory for diagnosis or treatment, we use it to evaluate your overall health, rule out other conditions, and craft a customized care plan just for you.
Similarly, menopause is diagnosed based on the absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months. At Samskara, we offer a comprehensive approach to symptom management, including bioidentical hormone therapy, nutritional guidance, stress management, and more.
At Samskara, we believe these years are an opportunity for renewal and growth. Our holistic care model integrates cutting-edge medical advancements with Eastern wellness principles, focusing on your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're navigating perimenopause, menopause, or seeking proactive metabolic and hormonal health solutions, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Your journey is unique, and at Samskara, we ensure that your care is too. Let’s transform this season of change into your most vibrant chapter yet!
Signs & Symptoms of Perimenopause
Over 75% of women experience symptoms during perimenopause that are substantial enough to disrupt daily routines, decrease productivity at work, strain close relationships, and diminish overall quality of life.
Yet these symptoms are often misunderstood, overlooked, or dismissed, leaving many women without the support they need during this pivotal transition.
Common symptoms of perimenopause include:
Irregular menstrual cycles marked by changes in frequency, intensity, and duration of bleeding
Hot flashes and night sweats
Increased irritability, anxiety, and depression
Difficulty falling or staying asleep
Vaginal dryness, irritation, and itching
Frequent UTI’s (urinary tract infections)
Difficulty maintaining bladder control
Changes in arousal, decreased interest in sex (libido), and/or difficulty achieving orgasms
Painful sex
Slower metabolism and constipation
Increased indigestion, bloating, and acid reflux
Increased fat accumulation around the abdomen and internal organs
Short term memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and lack of mental clarity
Loss of skin elasticity and moisture
Acne
Hair thinning and/or hair loss
Headaches
Muscle and joint pain
I understand how these symptoms can make you feel like something is wrong with your body. Let me reassure you: your body isn’t betraying you. It’s communicating with you, signaling that it needs care and support in a new way. The journey forward begins with tuning into your body’s messages and trusting your intuition. By honoring what your body is asking for, you can make choices that align with your values, aspirations, and inner wisdom. This empowers you to live a vibrant, healthy life and create a legacy of vitality and purpose.
Medical Disclaimer
Yes, I’m a women’s health physician, but I am not currently evaluating you in person, do not have your full medical history, and am unable to comprehensively provide adequate medical decision-making on an individual basis. As such, the information I have shared in this document is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice from your personal health care provider.
