Perimenopause Power: Thriving Through the Transition | With Dr. Mary Claire Haver

This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast. Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast, where we empower you to own every stage of your incredible journey. I'm your host, empowering women just like you through the ups and downs of perimenopause. Today, we're diving into this transformative phase with strength and knowledge, because you deserve to thrive, not just survive. Picture this: you're in your forties, powering through your career, family, and dreams, when suddenly hot flashes hit like a summer storm, moods swing wildly, and sleep becomes a distant memory. That's perimenopause, listeners, the natural transition before menopause when estrogen levels fluctuate, often starting in your late thirties or forties, as explained by the Cleveland Clinic. It can last four to eight years, bringing irregular periods, night sweats, vaginal dryness, joint pain, and brain fog. But here's the empowerment: this isn't the end of your vitality; it's your cue to reclaim control. Joining me today is Dr. Mary Claire Haver, a board-certified OB-GYN and menopause specialist from the Galveston Diet, who's helped thousands of women navigate this with confidence. Dr. Haver, welcome. What are the top three signs listeners should watch for in perimenopause? Dr. Haver: Absolutely, hot flashes and night sweats affect up to 80 percent of women, per the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists or ACOG. Mood changes from hormonal dips are common too, and irregular cycles signal the start. Thanks, Dr. Haver. For listeners still cycling, how does hormone therapy fit in? ACOG reports systemic estrogen with progestin is the gold standard for hot flashes, night sweats, and bone protection, especially if you're under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, as NYU Langone specialists confirm, with benefits often outweighing low risks like gallbladder issues. Dr. Haver: Spot on. For vaginal dryness, low-dose topical estrogen or DHEA suppositories rebuild tissue safely without systemic effects. Nonhormonal options like antidepressants or gabapentin work wonders too, and lifestyle tweaks—layered clothing, yoga, Kegels from Kaiser Permanente guidelines—empower daily relief. Dr. Haver, how can women build their care team and advocate like you teach? Dr. Haver: Start with your doctor for personalized checks, layer in sustainable changes like protein-rich meals and stress boundaries, inspired by advocates like Stephanie Shaw of Hello Hot Flash podcast. Younger generations are leading with awareness—you can too. Powerful advice. Key takeaways, listeners: Perimenopause is your power phase—track symptoms, prioritize hormone therapy if suitable per ACOG and Menopause Society guidelines, embrace nonhormonal aids, exercise gently, and self-advocate fiercely. You're not fading; you're evolving into your strongest self. Thank you for tuning in, listeners—subscribe now for more empowerment. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http:// This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.