What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, when hormone levels begin to fluctuate. This period can last up to 5 years — sometimes longer. A woman is not considered to be in menopause until she has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle.
During this transition, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels shift irregularly, leading to a wide range of symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Perimenopause
- Hot flashes & night sweats (vasomotor symptoms)
- Difficulty sleeping, light or restless sleep
- Increased anxiety or irritability
- Irregular or heavier cycles
- Low libido
- Sluggish memory & brain fog
- Mood changes
- Loss of muscle tone
- Weight gain, especially around the midsection
The Science Behind the Symptoms
Bone Health:
Women can lose up to 10% of their bone density in the two years leading up to menopause.
Cardiovascular Health:
Hot flashes and disrupted sleep may affect cardiovascular health.
Cortisol & Weight:
When sleep is disrupted by low estrogen and progesterone, cortisol rises, making it harder to lose weight and easier to gain it.
Testosterone in Women:
Yes — women do need testosterone. Low testosterone contributes to:
- Fatigue
- Low libido
- Loss of muscle mass
- Mental fog
The Good News: Support Is Available
Early evaluation and personalized hormonal support can:
- Reduce symptoms
- Improve sleep and energy
- Support muscle and bone health
- Improve cognition and mood
- Support metabolism and weight management
- Improve overall healthspan, not just lifespan
Our Approach at The Falcone Center
We take a bio-individualized approach — meaning your plan is tailored specifically to you.
Your care may include:
- Advanced hormonal testing
- Nutritional and lifestyle support
- Stress and sleep optimization
- Natural or bioidentical hormone therapy (creams, patches, or pellets depending on your needs)
- Longevity-focused preventive medicine strategies
This is smart, personalized, medical care designed to improve both quality of life and long-term wellness.
Q&A: Perimenopause Questions Answered
Q: When should I get evaluated?
A: If symptoms are affecting sleep, mood, energy, or wellbeing — earlier is better.
Q: Is hormone therapy safe?
A: When prescribed appropriately and monitored by trained clinicians, hormone therapy is considered safe and effective for many women.
Q: Is this the same as “anti-aging medicine”?
A: Think of it as healthspan medicine — supporting your ability to live well, move well, and feel well as you age.
Schedule Your Comprehensive Consultation
Call (215) 586-3304 to schedule your hormone evaluation.