Perimenopause Power Hour: Navigating the Change with Dr. Zeldina

This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast. Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where knowledge is power and every conversation aims to put that power in your hands. Today we’re demystifying a phase nearly every woman will encounter but is too often left in the shadows—perimenopause. Whether you’re already sensing the changes or just curious, this conversation is all about embracing perimenopause as a season of empowerment, not fear or uncertainty. Perimenopause refers to the transitional years leading up to menopause. For many women, it starts in their 40s, but it can begin as early as the mid-30s. You might notice irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disruptions, unexpected mood swings, or even forgetfulness. According to Dr. Haleema Sheikh at the Marion Gluck Clinic, the range of symptoms can feel overwhelming—but this is not a loss of control, it’s an invitation to ask new questions about your health and needs. To answer those questions, today I’m joined by Dr. Elina Zeldina of Premier OBGYN of Ridgewood. Dr. Zeldina, so many women describe perimenopause as a confusing and isolating time. What are the first signs women should look out for, and how can they distinguish perimenopause from everyday stress or hormonal changes? Next, I’ll ask about customizable treatment plans. Dr. Zeldina, every woman’s experience is unique. How do you approach care so that each patient feels heard, supported, and empowered throughout this transition? Let’s talk symptoms. Hot flashes and night sweats can really derail daily life. Some women find their sleep is disrupted, while others share that anxiety and low moods are their biggest challenges. Dr. Zeldina, what lifestyle adjustments have you seen make the biggest impact? And when should someone consider medical options like hormone replacement therapy? While HRT—hormone replacement therapy—remains the most effective proven strategy for symptom relief according to leading research from Yale Medicine, it’s not right for everyone. Non-hormonal medications such as certain antidepressants can help manage mood swings and even hot flashes, says the team at Hello Clue. I want to ask Dr. Zeldina: How do you help women weigh the pros and cons of each option and navigate decisions confidently? Nutrition matters too. Every Mother, a women’s health resource, recommends diet changes like adding calcium and vitamin D for bone health, incorporating phytoestrogens from soy, and prioritizing foods that support hormone balance. Physical activity—whether it’s yoga, strength training, or simply moving more—has been shown to ease both physical and emotional symptoms. Finally, I want to discuss empowerment. At the Marion Gluck Clinic, the philosophy is educating women about their hormones so that you, the patient, steer your own well-being. Dr. Zeldina, what advice do you give to women who are struggling to advocate for themselves and feel dismissed or misunderstood? Let’s wrap up with key takeaways. Knowledge is power: This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.