Perimenopause Power-Up: Thriving in Transition with Dr. Patil

This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast. Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where we get right to the heart of the health journeys unique to women everywhere. Today, we're exploring perimenopause—a transition that millions of women experience, but one that’s often shrouded in mystery, misconception, and silence. Our aim is to empower you with knowledge, practical strategies, and voices of expertise so this phase becomes an era of strength, not confusion. Let’s get straight to it: what is perimenopause? Perimenopause is the period of time before menopause, when your body begins to transition hormonally—often starting in your 40s, though it can happen earlier or later. During this time, estrogen and other reproductive hormones start to fluctuate. You might notice symptoms like irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disruption, mood changes, and shifts in metabolism, but every woman's experience is unique. According to experts at UCLA Health and New England Gynecology & Surgical Services, these symptoms can range from joint pain and insomnia to brain fog and heavy periods. Yet, for too long, women have felt alone or unprepared for these changes. Today I’m thrilled to be joined by Dr. Monica Patil of UCLA Health, a leading voice in women’s hormone health. Dr. Patil, thank you for joining us. Let’s dive right in. Dr. Patil, could you break down for us: what are the first signs of perimenopause, and why do so many women not recognize them at first? Next, when it comes to the classic symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, what new treatments are available, especially for women who can’t or don’t want to use hormone therapy? For listeners struggling with mood shifts, anxiety, or sleep issues, what do you recommend in terms of lifestyle or medical interventions? Is hormone replacement therapy still the gold standard, or are there other solutions women should know about? Let’s talk about empowerment and choices. How can women advocate for themselves with their healthcare providers if their concerns are dismissed or minimized? Are there specific screenings or health checks that women in perimenopause should prioritize to protect their bones, heart, or overall wellness? And, finally, for women who want to embrace this transition: what are your top tips for thriving—not just surviving—in perimenopause? What’s clear from experts like Dr. Patil and clinics such as Mayo and Yale is that no two perimenopause journeys are the same. The most effective therapies—according to the Women’s Health Initiative and new medications like fezolinetant—can be tailored to your needs. Hormone therapy has evolved, with lower doses and new monitoring, and non-hormonal options like SSRIs, gabapentin, and lifestyle interventions are proving powerful. Treatments for heavy periods such as birth control pills, Lysteda, or even surgical options exist, so women can—and should—demand individualized care. Key takeaways: perimenopause is natural and can be managed. Speak This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.