Is It Perimenopause or Menopause? Know the Signs & What You Can Do
Intro:
If you’ve been feeling “off” lately — more tired, irritable, forgetful, or gaining weight even when nothing’s changed — it might not just be stress. It could be perimenopause or menopause. These natural hormonal transitions can start as early as your mid-30s, and for many women, the symptoms are confusing, frustrating, and often brushed off by others — even by doctors.
At Dr. Drip IV Hydration & Wellness, we believe in giving women the support, testing, and treatment they need to feel like themselves again. Let’s break down what’s really happening and what you can do to feel better.
What’s the Difference Between Perimenopause and Menopause?
Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause. It can last for 4–10 years and typically begins in your 30s or 40s.
Menopause is officially diagnosed when you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual cycle — typically around age 51 in the U.S.
Postmenopause follows menopause, and symptoms can persist if not addressed.
Common Signs & Symptoms to Watch For:
You may be in perimenopause or menopause if you’re experiencing:
Irregular or heavy periods
Hot flashes and night sweats
Mood swings or anxiety
Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
Brain fog and forgetfulness
Vaginal dryness or pain with intimacy
Low libido
Fatigue or joint pain
Weight gain (especially in the belly)
Hair thinning or skin dryness
Why Do These Changes Happen?
Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone all begin to decline or fluctuate, causing your body’s systems — mood, metabolism, memory, and more — to react. Stress, poor nutrition, and lack of sleep can make symptoms worse.
How Do You Know for Sure?
We recommend a comprehensive hormone panel that may include:
Estradiol (E2)
FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)
Progesterone
Testosterone (free and total)
DHEA
Cortisol
Thyroid labs (TSH, Free T3, Free T4, TPO antibodies)
We often pair this with symptom tracking, a review of your menstrual cycle history, and personalized wellness coaching.
Treatment Options — It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All
You have options, and we help you explore what fits your lifestyle and body best.
🌿 Natural/Holistic Approaches:
Hormone-balancing supplements (DIM, magnesium, flaxseed, adaptogens)
Menopause-friendly meal planning and juicing
Stress reduction techniques (IV therapy, adaptogens, acupuncture)
💉 Medical Options:
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) — customized creams, troches, or injections
Low-dose testosterone therapy
Weight loss support (GLP-1s, metabolism boosters, thyroid support)
Vaginal estrogen creams for dryness or discomfort
You’re Not Going Crazy. You’re Changing — and That’s OK.
If no one has validated your symptoms yet, let this blog be the first to say: You are not imagining things. And there is hope. You don’t have to “just live with it.”
Ready to feel like yourself again?
Book a personalized hormone consultation with us at www.drdripsiv.com or call 951-953-2337
Let’s test, treat, and tailor a plan that helps you thrive through every stage of womanhood.
