The average onset age of Menopause is 51. However, the transitional phase known as Perimenopause, characterized by hormonal fluctuations, can begin 7 to 10 years prior to menopause, making it reasonable for women aged 35 to 45 to start experiencing these changes
How Safe and Beneficial is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?
When considering the safety of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), recent insights affirm its safety for a vast majority, particularly when initiated within a decade following menopause. Starting HRT early, which may include estrogen alone or combined with progesterone, has been associated with a decrease in overall mortality, reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases by about 50% annually, and a lower incidence of various cancers.
Diagnosing perimenopause can be challenging due to the fluctuating nature of hormones during this period. A one-time blood, urine, or saliva test often does not provide a definitive diagnosis. The emphasis is placed on understanding and believing the experiences shared by the individual, while also ruling out other conditions such as hypothyroidism or autoimmune diseases that might present with similar symptoms.
What Causes Sudden Facial Hair Growth in Menopause? Demystifying Androgen Activity.
Additionally, the emergence of black facial hairs during menopause can be attributed to increased androgen activity, a process influenced by both genetics and hormonal changes. This increase in androgens can lead to symptoms like acne, the appearance of chin hairs, and hair thinning in previously desired areas.
Navigating the Costs of Hormone Therapy: What Are Your Options?
For individuals worried about the affordability of hormone therapy, it’s important to note that in Canada, many insurance companies provide partial coverage for essential hormone treatments, including estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone.
Canadian research and guidelines:
For further insights into menopause and hormone therapy, including perspectives from Canadian research and guidelines, I recommend exploring this pivotal study from the Canadian Medical Association Journal, which offers a thorough examination of menopause management, advocating for hormone therapy as a primary treatment for vasomotor symptoms and detailing both hormonal and non-hormonal treatments.
Site: https://www.cmaj.ca/content/195/19/E677