Perimenopause Power-Up: Navigating the Change with Grit and Grace

This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast. Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where we’re rewriting the narrative on what it means to thrive as a woman, at every stage. I’m your host, and today we’re shining a bold light on perimenopause—a life-changing transition that deserves open conversation and real answers. If you’re finding yourself navigating unpredictable periods, hot flashes, or just feeling out of sync with your body, you are not alone. Perimenopause is a journey millions of women take, yet it often gets pushed aside in mainstream discussions about health. Let’s get right to it. Perimenopause is the natural transition leading up to menopause, usually starting for women in their 40s but sometimes as early as the mid-30s. During this time, hormone levels shift, triggering a host of symptoms—irregular cycles, mood swings, night sweats, and challenges with sleep. Our bodies are strong, but this phase can test even the most resilient among us. To dive deeper, I’m joined today by Dr. Kirtly Jones, a women’s health expert from University of Utah Health, who will help us demystify this important life stage. Dr. Jones, welcome! First, can you tell us what exactly is happening hormonally during perimenopause? How do fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels impact not just our bodies, but also our emotional and mental health? Listeners want to know: are sudden mood shifts and brain fog normal, or cause for concern? Next, let’s get practical. Dr. Jones, what evidence-based treatments are available for managing symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness? Planned Parenthood advises that menopausal hormone therapy, or MHT, which replaces estrogen and progesterone, can be helpful for severe symptoms. But we know every woman’s journey is unique. In addition to hormonal therapy, can you walk us through non-hormonal options—like low-dose antidepressants or newer medicines like fezolinetant—that address hot flashes, and topical creams for vaginal health? Ou