Perimenopause: Why You Feel “Off” — and What You Can Actually Do About It
Many women in their late 30s and 40s feel “off” long before they miss a period.
They’re more tired than usual.
Their weight changes despite doing “all the right things.”
Sleep feels lighter.
Mood feels unpredictable.
And they’re often told: “It’s stress.”
For many women, these changes are early signs of perimenopause — a hormonal transition that can begin years before menopause itself.
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, marked by fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels.
Unlike menopause, it doesn’t follow a neat timeline — and symptoms can appear even when cycles are still regular.
Common symptoms include:
- fatigue
- weight gain or redistribution
- brain fog
- anxiety or irritability
- sleep disruption
- low libido
- joint aches
- changes in skin and hair
Because hormones fluctuate daily, lab work may still appear “normal,” which often leads to frustration and dismissal.
Why “Normal” Labs Don’t Tell the Whole Story
Hormone reference ranges are broad, and most testing captures a single moment in time.
That means many women are told:
“Everything looks normal.”
…while still feeling far from well.
At NuVida, we look beyond whether labs are technically “normal” and focus on how your body is actually functioning — combined with symptoms, history, and goals.
How Perimenopause Affects Weight and Energy
As estrogen declines and progesterone fluctuates, several things happen:
- insulin sensitivity decreases
- inflammation increases
- muscle mass becomes harder to maintain
- cortisol (stress hormone) plays a bigger role
This is why weight loss after 35 often feels harder — and why extreme dieting usually backfires.
What Can Help
There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but evidence-based options may include:
- Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
- Medical weight loss support, when appropriate
- InBody composition analysis to track real progress
- IV therapy and vitamin injections for energy and recovery
- Lifestyle adjustments that work with hormonal changes
The goal isn’t perfection — it’s quality of life.
You’re Not Crazy — and You’re Not Alone
Perimenopause is real, common, and often misunderstood.
You deserve providers who listen, educate, and support you through this transition — not dismiss your experience.
Call to Action
If you’re noticing changes in your energy, weight, mood, or sleep and wondering if hormones may be involved, a personalized consultation can help clarify your options.
