The Truth About Perimenopause: What Your Doctor Might Not Tell You

If you’re in your late 30s or 40s and have noticed strange shifts in your body, mood, or energy, you’re not imagining it—and you’re not alone. Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, affects millions of women but is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or simply dismissed. At Balanced You Medical Wellness in Omaha, we believe women deserve more than vague answers or generic advice. In this blog, we’re uncovering the truth about perimenopause and the real treatment options available to help you feel like yourself again.

---

What Is Perimenopause? 

Perimenopause is the period of hormonal fluctuation that begins several years before menopause. It typically starts in a woman’s 40s, but some begin to experience changes in their mid-to-late 30s. This phase can last anywhere from a few years to over a decade.

During perimenopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, leading to an imbalance that creates physical and emotional symptoms. Unlike menopause, which is defined as 12 consecutive months without a period, perimenopause is marked by irregular cycles and fluctuating hormone levels.

---

Common Symptoms of Perimenopause

Perimenopause doesn’t look the same for every woman, but there are hallmark symptoms that many share:

• Irregular or heavier periods

• Increased mood swings, anxiety, or irritability

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Difficulty sleeping

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex

• Decreased libido

• Brain fog and poor concentration

• Persistent fatigue or exhaustion

• Unexplained weight gain, especially around the midsection

These symptoms can feel overwhelming, especially when they’re brushed off as just “getting older.”

---

Why Perimenopause Often Gets Dismissed 

Many women seeking help for perimenopause are told they’re too young, it’s just stress, or worse—they’re prescribed antidepressants without hormone testing. Conventional medical training often underemphasizes hormone health and the complexity of the perimenopausal transition.

This leads to misdiagnosis, frustration, and years of unnecessary suffering. It’s not uncommon for perimenopausal symptoms to be mistaken for anxiety, depression, or chronic fatigue, delaying the right care and answers.

---

The Role of Hormone Testing in Perimenopause 

Because hormone levels fluctuate from day to day, one blood test isn’t enough. At Balanced You, we combine:

• In-depth symptom assessments

• Targeted hormone panels (including estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol)

• Thyroid and metabolic markers

Our philosophy is that “normal” doesn’t always mean “optimal.” You might fall within the standard range but still feel far from your best.

Tracking symptoms over time, along with patterns in hormone levels, gives us a clearer picture of what your body truly needs.

---

Personalized Treatment Options 

Once we understand your hormone landscape, we can create a treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Common approaches include:

• BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy): Derived from plant sources and custom-compounded to mimic your body’s natural hormones.

• Traditional HRT: In select cases, some patients may opt for FDA-approved synthetic options.

• Lifestyle interventions: Diet, movement, stress reduction, and sleep quality are integral parts of hormone balance.

• Supplements and botanicals: Adaptogens, magnesium, B vitamins, and omega-3s are often included.

• Emotional wellness support: Therapy, coaching, or mind-body practices may help manage mood swings and life transitions.

---

Balanced You’s Approach to Perimenopause

Treatment in Omaha At Balanced You, we don’t just treat lab numbers—we treat people. Our perimenopause program includes:

• Comprehensive hormone panels and functional testing

• Customized BHRT dosages adjusted as your body changes

• Holistic strategies that address mental, emotional, and physical health

• Ongoing monitoring to ensure your plan evolves with you

We listen, we believe your symptoms, and we create a path forward that honors your experience.

(Also check out our blog: How to Know If Your Hormones Are Out of Whack)

---

Real-Life Story: 

Finally Feeling Seen Amy, 43, came to Balanced You after years of being told her fatigue and mood swings were "just stress." Her hormone panel revealed low progesterone and cortisol imbalances. Within six weeks of starting BHRT and a targeted wellness plan, she reported better sleep, fewer emotional crashes, and energy she hadn’t felt in years.

---

FAQs: Perimenopause Treatment Omaha 

Is it safe to start hormone therapy during perimenopause? 

Yes. BHRT can be safely introduced during perimenopause to help ease symptoms and restore balance.

How do I know if I’m in perimenopause? 

Irregular periods, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and hot flashes are common indicators. Hormone testing confirms the diagnosis.

Can I still get pregnant during perimenopause? 

Yes. Although fertility declines, it is still possible to conceive until menopause is officially reached.

What happens if I do nothing? 

While some women naturally transition without major symptoms, many experience increasing discomfort. Untreated hormone imbalance can affect quality of life, bone density, and heart health.

---

Final Thoughts:

You deserve to feel good in your body. You deserve to be heard. If you suspect you’re entering perimenopause and aren’t getting the answers or care you need, it’s time to explore a better path.

Take our free hormone assessment today. To speak with a provider who understands what you’re going through, contact Balanced You Medical Wellness and schedule your personalized consultation.

---

Sources

• North American Menopause Society (2023). Perimenopause overview.

• Endocrine Society (2022). Hormone changes in midlife women.

• Journal of Women’s Health (2021). Outcomes of BHRT in perimenopausal patients.

• Mayo Clinic (2023). Menopause and perimenopause symptoms and treatment.