Navigating Hormonal Changes:
Understanding Perimenopause & Menopause
As women approach mid-life, they undergo significant hormonal changes that mark the transition from perimenopause into menopause. Understanding and managing these changes are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, typically occurring in women during their 40s
but can start as early as their mid-30s. This phase is characterized by hormonal fluctuations that can result in a variety
of physical and emotional symptoms, signaling the end of a woman’s reproductive years.
Menopause itself is defined as the cessation of menstrual periods for at least 12 consecutive months
Perimenopause & Menopause Symptoms:
- Irregular Periods: Changes in menstrual cycle length and flow, eventually ceasing completely.
- Hot Flashes & Night Sweats: Sudden feelings of warmth, often accompanie
- Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, often due to night sweats.
- Bone Loss: Increased risk of osteoporosis due to decreased estrogen levels.
- Mood Changes: Increased irritability, anxiety, or mood swings.
- Weight Gain: Particularly around the abdomen.
- Vaginal Dryness: Reduced lubrication, leading to discomfort during intercourse.
- Reduced Libido: Decreased interest in sexual activity, often due to hormonal changes and other physical symptoms.
- Thinning Hair & Dry Skin: Hormonal changes can lead to hair becoming thinner & skin becoming drier, sometimes causing itchiness or discomfort.
- Muscle Aches & Joint Pains: Increased likelihood of experiencing aches and pains in muscles and joints, potentially due to lower estrogen levels.
- Heart Palpitations: Sensations of a racing or irregular heartbeat, which can be linked to hormonal fluctuations
What to Expect
During the Perimenopause and Menopause Screening, our experienced healthcare professionals will conduct a thorough evaluation of your hormonal levels, bone health, cardiovascular function, and overall well-being. Personalised recommendations may include lifestyle modifications, dietary adjustments, supplements, or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) if indicated.
A follow-up consultation will be scheduled to review your results, discuss any concerns, and create a tailored treatment plan to manage symptoms and promote healthy ageing. Our holistic approach ensures that you receive comprehensive care to navigate this natural life transition with confidence and vitality
Perimenopause and Menopause Screening
Hormonal Assessments:
- Estradiol (E2): Measures estrogen levels to assess reproductive hormone status.
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Indicators of menopausal transition.
- Thyroid Function Tests: Evaluates thyroid hormones (TSH, Free T3, Free T4) which can affect menopausal symptoms.
- DHEA-S: Evaluates adrenal gland function.
- SHBG: Measures sex hormone-binding globulin.
- Testosterone (Total): Assesses testosterone levels in women.
- Progesterone: Monitors hormone levels crucial for menstrual cycle and menopausal transition.
- Cortisol: Evaluates adrenal function and stress response.
- Insulin: Monitors blood sugar regulation and diabetes risk.
Bone Health Assessments
- Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan): Measures bone mineral density to assess osteoporosis risk.
*Exclusively at American International Hospital (AIH)
Cardiovascular Assessments
- Lipid Profile: Checks cholesterol levels to assess heart disease risk.
- Apolipoproteins (Apo-A, Apo-B): Additional markers for lipid metabolism.
- Blood Pressure Monitoring: Evaluates cardiovascular health.
Comprehensive Blood Work
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Screens for anemia and overall health status.
- Blood Glucose: Monitors blood sugar levels for diabetes risk.
- HbA1c: Assesses long-term blood glucose control.
- Liver Function Tests: Includes AST, ALT, GGT, ALP, bilirubin.
- Kidney Function Tests: Includes Creatinine, Urea, Albumin, Globulin.
Nutritional and Vitamin Testing
- Vitamin D: Essential for bone health and immune function.
- Calcium and Phosphate: Important for bone strength and overall health.
Urinalysis
- Total Protein: Screens for kidney function and other health markers.
*Breast ultrasound or mammogram (depending on the patient’s health status and previous screening history), pelvic and abdominal ultrasound, along with pap smear and HPV testing may be required and conducted by a radiologist and a gynaecologist.
