Perimenopause Power Hour: Navigating the Change with Dr. Priya Patil

This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast. Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where knowledge means power and we get real about our bodies, our health, and our futures. I’m your host, and today we’re diving right into a topic that affects millions but often remains surrounded by confusion: perimenopause. If you’ve ever wondered why you suddenly wake in a sweat at 3 AM or why your moods seem to swing as fiercely as your teenage self, you are in the right place. For so many women, perimenopause arrives quietly—sometimes as early as the mid-30s, more typically in the 40s—with subtle shifts that can upend our routines. Hot flashes, night sweats, unpredictable cycles, sleep problems, brain fog, and changes in weight or mood are all calling cards. UCLA Health notes that paying close attention to these symptoms is crucial, as knowledge and timely care can make the transition much smoother. Yet, these aren’t just “women’s problems”—they are signs of powerful hormonal evolution, marking a new chapter in our lives. To better understand perimenopause, I’m pleased to welcome Dr. Priya Patil, a women’s health expert at UCLA Health. Dr. Patil, what are some of the earliest symptoms women can expect as they enter perimenopause, and how can they distinguish them from other conditions? Another big question we hear: hormone therapy. It’s recommended by many, including VCU Health and Mayo Clinic, for hot flashes and night sweats. But not everyone wants or can take hormones. Dr. Patil, can you talk about the pros and cons of hormone therapy, and what alternatives are out there for women who want nonhormonal options? Speaking of alternatives, many women are now turning to medications like fezolinetant, FDA-approved to target moderate to severe hot flashes by regulating temperature control in the brain. There are also SSRIs and gabapentin, especially for those dealing with both mood swings and hot flashes. Dr. Patil, when should women consider these prescriptions, and what should they discuss with their doctor first? Let’s not forget the role of lifestyle. As Dr. Patil and teams at UCLA remind us, the pillars of healthy living—thoughtful eating, regular exercise, quality sleep—matter more than ever in perimenopause. Dr. Patil, what practical strategies would you suggest to help women stabilize symptoms naturally? Can strength training truly support our bone health and metabolism, and how do we manage those stubborn sleep issues? As we approach the end of our conversation, I want to ask you, Dr. Patil: What empowering message do you have for any listener who feels overwhelmed or isolated by perimenopause? Perimenopause marks a significant life transition, but it is not the end of vitality, ambition, or joy. With knowledge, a supportive healthcare team, and compassion for yourself, this can be a time of growth. Every woman’s journey is distinct, but you are not alone—there are empowering choices at every turn. Thank you for tuning in to the Women’s Health This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.