Here are a few Perimenopausal Treatments for you to think about, please consult with your Doctor first and see what the best solution for you is, as we are all different and all have different symptoms.
Progesterone is one of the hormones that affects the brain chemistry and it is also one that changes in the perimenopause years. In my practice, I’ve seen remarkable results in many women using this easy approach of low-dose natural progesterone cream. It is not a one-size-fits-all sort of option, but it is one easy thing to try, and it works for many women.
You can get the low-dose, over-the-counter formulas at most health food stores, or from many holistic practitioners’ offices. It’s important to look for “USP progesterone” on the ingredient list; that’s the active ingredient you want. Progesterone creams are also made to order at compounding pharmacies by prescription, which might be ideal (if this option is available to you) to ensure potency and quality.
For many women using progesterone cream, within days, it can feel like they’re taking in a breath of fresh air. If it is a good fit for you, you usually know right away. For others, it may take longer, or they might need something stronger or a different formula. I usually suggest giving it two cycles to see what it can offer you, along with nutritional support and dietary mindfulness.
I’ve seen very few side effects or serious concerns with natural progesterone, especially when taken in these low doses. Most of the risks in hormone use are linked to oral estrogens. If you have concerns about risks, you should certainly talk about them with your health-care provider, or choose another path altogether.
Eliminate or Reduce Caffeine, Alcohol and Sugar
This natural and nutritional approach is my favorite. I have worked closely with women of all ages and the common theme we see is that sugar, caffeine, alcohol and stress will exaggerate any hormonal symptoms that are occurring. Unstable blood sugar and an over-activated stress response – on top of hormone fluctuations – create a perfect storm for emotional outbursts and perimenopausal rage.
If you can curb these dietary triggers, and pay more attention to what you put into your body, then your brain may be better able to cope with the hormone imbalances of perimenopause.
Alcohol may calm your nerves while you’re drinking it, but if you don’t drink in moderation, or if you use it nightly, then you may find it actually feeds your rage the next day!
There are so many benefits to the natural and nutritional support you get with a healthy balanced diet, and the basic foundation provided by certain key supplements that they can’t be ignored. The foundational support I suggest is:
- High-quality multivitamin and mineral formula rich in B-complex vitamins and vitamin D
- Omega-3 fish oil
- Calcium and magnesium
The Birth Control Pill
The Pill has been used for decades to help women in their 30s and 40s have easier periods. The Pill will suppress the hormones in your body that are affecting the brain. It may help even out the rollercoaster ride, and curb the highs and lows of your emotions. There are many types as well as new formulas to consider with your provider. If you didn’t like the pill 20 years ago, you should know that there are many different types today – and your experience could be much different this time around.
The current data shows the birth control pill to be very safe in healthy women who don’t smoke, but there are risks and benefits you have to discuss with your provider.
Antidepressants
Women in crisis may need to use this approach if they really feel they are “falling apart.” Antidepressants seem to support the brain chemistry and help stabilize mood despite the hormone changes that are happening. With this support, your brain might better handle any wild hormone fluctuations that are wreaking havoc on your emotions during perimenopause, and how you might be reacting to the triggers that result in rage.
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