The Role Of Testosterone in Women

Testosterone, commonly associated with male physiology, is also produced in women’s ovaries and adrenal glands. It plays a significant role in:

• Sexual Health: Enhancing libido, sexual arousal, and satisfaction.
• Mood and Cognitive Function: Contributing to emotional well-being and mental clarity.
• Muscle and Bone Strength: Supporting muscle mass and bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
• Energy Levels: Influencing overall vitality, energy and stamina.

Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, and imbalances can lead to symptoms such as decreased libido, fatigue, and mood disturbances. In certain cases, testosterone therapy may be considered to alleviate these symptoms.

Estrogen: The Conerstone Of Female Health

Estrogen is pivotal in regulating the menstrual cycle and reproductive system. Its functions include:

• Reproductive Health: Controlling the menstrual cycle and supporting pregnancy.
• Bone Density: Maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
• Cardiovascular Health: Promoting healthy blood vessels and heart function.
• Skin and Hair: Influencing skin elasticity and hair growth.

During perimenopause and menopause, declining estrogen levels can lead to symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. HRT can help mitigate these effects.

Progesterone: The Harmonizer

Progesterone works in tandem with estrogen to regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain pregnancy. Its roles encompass:

• Menstrual Regulation: Balancing estrogen’s effects and preparing the uterus for pregnancy.
• Mood Stabilization: Exerting calming effects and supporting sleep quality.
• Bone Health: Contributing to bone strength alongside estrogen.

In HRT, progesterone is often combined with estrogen to protect the uterus from potential risks associated with estrogen-only therapy.

Taking Hormonal Changes Across Life Stages

If you’re experiencing a persistent decrease in sexual desire that’s causing distress, it’s important to seek support. A healthcare professional can work with you to determine the underlying causes and develop a personalized treatment plan.

• Puberty and premenopause (ages 10-40): Hormone levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, affecting mood, energy, and reproductive health.
• Perimenopause (ages 40-50): Hormonal shifts can lead to irregular periods, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
• Menopause (ages 50 and up): Significant declines in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can result in various symptoms, including hot flashes, decreased libido, and bone density loss.

Understanding these changes is crucial for managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.

Conclusion

Testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone each play integral roles in women’s health. Recognizing the importance of testosterone alongside the other hormones is essential for a comprehensive approach to well-being. If you’re experiencing symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, consult with a healthcare provider specializing in HRT to explore personalized treatment options.

The post Breaking The Cycle: Transforming Fatigue into Energy with Hormonal Insight appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

As an OB/GYN specializing in hormone replacement therapy (HRT), I often hear from patients who are concerned about a decline in their sexual desire. It’s important to understand that fluctuations in libido are common and can result from a combination of physical, emotional, and hormonal factors.

Understanding the Causes

Several factors can contribute to a decrease in sexual desire:

• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen and testosterone levels, especially during perimenopause and menopause, can impact libido.

• Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, and past traumas can affect sexual desire.

• Physical Health: Chronic illnesses, fatigue, and certain medications, including antidepressants and hormonal contraceptives, may lower libido.

• Relationship Dynamics: Emotional closeness, unresolved conflicts, and communication issues with a partner can influence sexual interest.

Exploring Solutions

Addressing low libido often involves a multifaceted approach:

• Medical Evaluation: Consulting a healthcare provider can help identify underlying medical or hormonal issues contributing to decreased sexual desire.

• Therapy and Counseling: Engaging in individual or couples therapy can address psychological factors and improve relationship dynamics.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, and a balanced diet can positively affect libido.

• Medications: In some cases, medications like flibanserin (Addyi) or bremelanotide (Vyleesi) may be prescribed for premenopausal women experiencing hypoactive sexual desire disorder.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

For women experiencing low libido due to hormonal changes, HRT can be an effective treatment option:

• Estrogen Therapy: Helps alleviate vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse, enhancing sexual satisfaction.

• Testosterone Therapy: Though not FDA-approved for women in the U.S., low-dose testosterone therapy has been shown to improve sexual desire in postmenopausal women.

It’s crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks of HRT with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs.

Taking the Next Step

If you’re experiencing a persistent decrease in sexual desire that’s causing distress, it’s important to seek support. A healthcare professional can work with you to determine the underlying causes and develop a personalized treatment plan.

The post What Happened To My Sex Drive? appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

Feeling persistently tired is a common complaint among women, and as an OB/GYN with 30 years of experience, I’ve found that hormonal imbalances often play a significant role. However, fatigue can also stem from various other factors. Let’s delve into the potential causes and explore ways to address them.

Hormonal Factors

Hormones regulate numerous bodily functions, and imbalances can lead to fatigue:

• Estrogen and Progesterone: Fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause can disrupt sleep patterns and energy levels.

• Thyroid Hormones: Hypothyroidism, characterized by low thyroid hormone levels, slows metabolism, leading to fatigue and weight gain.

• Cortisol: Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels, disrupting sleep and causing persistent tiredness.

• Testosterone: Though often associated with men, women also produce testosterone. Low levels can contribute to decreased energy and motivation.

Other Medical Conditions

Several health issues can cause fatigue:

• Anemia: Iron deficiency reduces oxygen transport in the body, leading to exhaustion.

• Vitamin Deficiencies: Low levels of Vitamin D or B12 can result in decreased energy.

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest.

• Sleep Disorders: Conditions like sleep apnea interrupt sleep, leading to daytime drowsiness.

Lifestyle and Psychological Factors

Daily habits and mental health significantly impact energy levels:

• Poor Sleep Hygiene: Irregular sleep schedules and screen time before bed can impair sleep quality.

• Diet and Hydration: Inadequate nutrition and dehydration can cause sluggishness.

• Lack of Exercise: Physical inactivity can lead to decreased stamina.

• Mental Health: Depression and anxiety often manifest as fatigue.

Addressing Fatigue

If you’re experiencing persistent tiredness, consider the following steps:

• Medical Evaluation: Consult with a healthcare provider to assess for hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Establish regular sleep patterns, maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and incorporate physical activity into your routine.

• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.

• Mental Health Support: Seek counseling or therapy if emotional factors contribute to your fatigue.

Understanding the root cause of your fatigue is essential for effective treatment. With proper evaluation and targeted interventions, it’s possible to restore energy levels and improve overall well-being.

The post Why Am I Always Tired? Exploring Hormonal and Other Causes appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment used to relieve symptoms of menopause by replenishing estrogen and progesterone levels that decline during this phase. As an OB/GYN, I aim to provide you with comprehensive information to help you make informed decisions about HRT.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

HRT involves supplementing the body with estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone and testosterone to alleviate menopausal symptoms and prevent bone loss.

Benefits of HRT

HRT offers several benefits:

• Relief from menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.

• Prevention of bone loss, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

• Potential reduction in the risk of heart disease and colon cancer when started within 10 years of menopause onset or before age 60.

Risks and Considerations

While HRT has benefits, it’s essential to consider potential risks:

• Slightly increased risk of breast cancer with combined estrogen-progestin therapy.

• Increased risk of blood clots and stroke, particularly with oral HRT.

• Estrogen-only therapy can increase the risk of endometrial cancer in women with an intact uterus; adding progesterone mitigates this risk.

Discussing your personal and family medical history with your healthcare provider is crucial to determine if HRT is suitable for you.

Types of HRT

HRT can be administered in various forms:

• Oral tablets

• Skin patches

• Topical gels and creams

The choice depends on your symptoms, preferences, and medical history.

Who Should Consider HRT?

HRT is beneficial for:

• Women experiencing menopausal symptoms.

• Those with a significant risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.

• Women who have experienced premature menopause (before age 40).

However, HRT may not be recommended for women with a history of certain cancers, blood clots, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding.

Final Thoughts

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Symptoms of Low Estrogen

Low estrogen can impact everything from menstrual health to the way we sleep. While estrogen production is naturally reduced as we age as a part of menopause, some women experience dramatic symptoms that reduce their quality of life. However, various factors can cause some women to experience dips in estrogen production earlier in life. This can include everything from certain medical treatments to eating disorders.

Vaginal Dryness

When estrogen dips, the vaginal walls actually “thin out.” That’s because estrogen helps to maintain the thickness and elasticity of the walls of the vagina. Estrogen also produces natural lubrication. Thinning vaginal walls result in fewer cells that are capable of producing moisture, therefore causing vaginal dryness.

Mood Swings

Yes, low estrogen can make you moody. While the physical manifestations of low estrogen levels can be difficult to live with, many women find the mood swings and emotional instability that accompany low estrogen to be the most disruptive. Dipping hormone levels may make you feel depressed, anxious, snappy, or unable to cope with challenges.

Fatigue

Did you know that estrogen actually plays an important role in regulating the brain? One of the most notable roles of estrogen is the way it helps to regulate cortisol signaling. When estrogen decreases, the unregulated release of cortisol can increase the body’s stress response to leave you in a constant state of fatigue. It can be like your body’s “alarm bells” are going off 24 hours a day. It’s common for women with low estrogen to feel like they are dragging themselves through the day. They may also suffer from midday energy crashes or fall asleep hours earlier than their usual bedtimes.

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

Sweating and overheating are two of the most unpleasant symptoms of low estrogen. In addition to being unpleasant on their own, hot flashes and sweating also commonly cause sleep disturbances. When combined with mood swings and hormone-related fatigue, poor sleep can feel like the final straw that makes life overwhelming. Changing estrogen levels can essentially rewire a region of the brain called the hypothalamus that helps to regulate body temperature. A dip in estrogen triggers the hypothalamus to be more sensitive to temperature changes that are perceived by the body. As a result, the hypothalamus overcompensates by activating sweating at times when you may not feel warm at all.

Irregular or Absent Menstrual Cycles

While all of the other symptoms of low estrogen may be present, it’s usually changes in menstruation that finally make women realize that something is going on with their hormone levels. Low estrogen can cause missed periods or irregular periods. Depending on your age, absent or erratic periods could either indicate menopause or a medical condition that’s preventing your ovaries from producing adequate estrogen levels.

Vaginal Atrophy

It’s common for women with symptoms of low estrogen to experience dramatic changes in sexual health. Vaginal atrophy is caused by a thinning of the lining of the vagina due to low estrogen. The reduction in vaginal fluid that occurs when estrogen dips can also change the acid balance within the vagina. You may notice that your vagina feels more fragile and less “stretchy.” The vaginal canal can also shorten.

Infertility

If you’ve been struggling to conceive, it’s important to consider that reduced or absent fertility can be one of the symptoms of low estrogen. Low estrogen in women can inhibit infertility in a number of ways. First, it makes it difficult for the ovaries to release eggs during the fertile window known as ovulation. Even women who do release eggs may have thinning uterine lining that cannot support an embryo. In addition, short menstruation cycles caused by low estrogen can also result in immature eggs that aren’t as likely to be successfully fertilized.

RELATED: Hormones in Perimenopausal and Menopausal Women

Low Estrogen Treatment

There are many different ways to treat low estrogen in women today. Treatments are often tailored based on the underlying causes of hormonal imbalance and the nature of the symptoms being experienced. It’s important to work with an experienced obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) and women’s health expert to ensure that you’re getting personalized care with access to the full scope of cutting-edge, noninvasive treatments available. Here’s a look at what an approach to treating symptoms of low estrogen might entail.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is commonly used to treat low estrogen during menopause and postmenopause. It is one of the fastest ways to relieve vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and other disruptive symptoms. Many ways of taking hormones including pills, patches, creams, and pellets are available. Hormone replacement therapy has been proven by many years of research to be safe and effective, extending health, longevity, and resilience. 

Lifestyle Changes

Low estrogen in women can be at least partially managed by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active with regular exercise, and managing stress levels. Diets that are rich in healthy fats and fiber may be beneficial for hormonal balance. Some women may also benefit from eating estrogen-rich foods or taking supplements that support estrogen production.

Underlying Conditions Treatment

Low estrogen symptoms in women can sometimes be managed by addressing autoimmune disorders or vitamin deficiencies. Additionally, estrogen levels can be affected by genetic disorders, eating disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and thyroid disorders.

Dr. Michael Tahery is a Board-Certified Obstetrician Gynecologist (OB/GYN) and Urogynecologist specializing in women’s health with a focus on hormonal balance in Glendale and the Los Angeles area. Call today for a consultation.

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SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS OF VAGINA ATROPHY

How can you know if the symptoms you’re experiencing are caused by vaginal atrophy? It’s actually quite common to confuse symptoms of vaginal atrophy with symptoms of a yeast infection. Treatments for yeast infections won’t work for vaginal atrophy because this condition is caused by a lack of estrogen instead of a fungal infection. Of course, it’s always important to rule out a yeast infection with help from a medical provider before assuming that your symptoms are caused by vaginal atrophy. Here’s a look at vaginal atrophy symptoms:

• Vaginal dryness.
• Vaginal burning.
• Burning during urination.
• A sense of urgency during urination.
• Changes in vaginal discharge.
• Genital itching
• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Light bleeding after intercourse.
• Painful or uncomfortable intercourse.
• Decreased vaginal lubrication during sexual activity.
• Tightening of the vaginal canal.

RELATED: Why Is My Labia Shrinking?

It’s not necessary to experience all symptoms to be diagnosed with vaginal atrophy. In many cases, women only experience the symptoms of burning, dryness, and itching. A pelvic exam is generally needed to confirm a diagnosis of vaginal atrophy. During your examination, your healthcare provider will be looking for signs of swelling, redness, vulvar lesions, lacerations near the vaginal opening, sparse pubic hair, narrowing of the vagina, and other telltale signs that you’re in a state of decreasing estrogen levels. Urine and fluid analysis may also be used.

VAGINAL ATROPHY TREATMENT

Many women never talk to their care providers about vaginal atrophy because they assume that nothing can be done to mitigate the age-related effects of diminishing estrogen levels. In reality, there are several treatment options available to help restore comfort and function. Speaking to your care provider as soon as you notice symptoms of vaginal atrophy is important because early treatment can prevent your vaginal atrophy from worsening. Vaginal dryness increases as the body goes without estrogen. This means that your condition is likely to get worse with time. In some cases, atrophy becomes so severe that the vaginal opening narrows dramatically. Trying to correct atrophy one significant symptoms are present can be much more challenging than treating early symptoms. Next, take a look at the three most common treatments for vaginal atrophy.

Hormone Therapy

A number of different hormonal therapies are available for treating vaginal atrophy. Topical estrogen is available in creams, rings, tablets, and suppositories. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is another option. Your care provider will discuss the pros and cons of various hormonal therapies based on your age, symptoms, and health history.

Laser Treatment

Laser treatments or vaginal rejuvenation for reducing vaginal dryness are becoming increasingly popular among women seeking non-hormonal treatments for atrophy. Lasers stimulate circulation, cellular activity, and healing that help to restore vaginal tissue to original levels. This non-invasive, surgery-free option triggers vaginal tissue’s self-healing, self-restorative properties.

RELATED: Frequently Asked Questions About Labia Majoras Puffing

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes shouldn’t be underestimated when talking about vaginal atrophy treatment options. There are many things women can do to reverse vaginal atrophy symptoms without medical intervention. Here are some tips:

• Kegel exercises performed on a regular basis can help to prevent the thinning and shrinking of vaginal tissue. Kegels can be especially effective for women suffering from urinary symptoms associated with the condition. These simple exercises involve repetitive tightening and loosening of pelvic floor muscles.
• Frequent sex can help to prevent vaginal atrophy. Regular sexual activity helps to keep vaginal tissue healthy by increasing blood flow to the vagina.
• Quitting smoking can help to resolve vaginal atrophy. Cigarette smoking restricts blood circulation to the vagina. In addition, smoking reduces the effects of the body’s estrogen levels.
• Regular exercise can be helpful for keeping blood flow in the genital area high.

If you’re struggling with symptoms of vaginal atrophy, reach out to the offices of Dr. Tahery to learn about vaginal atrophy treatment options that can help you feel like yourself again. Located in Los Angeles, Dr. Michael Tahery is a board-certified OB/GYN and female hormone specialist offering patients more than two decades of experience. Our office can address your unique needs to help you develop a vaginal atrophy treatment plan that allows you to live without pain and discomfort. Call today to schedule an appointment!

The post What Are The Vaginal Atrophy Treatment Options? appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

Perimenopause or the Menopausal Journey

You don’t suddenly experience symptoms out of nowhere. The process begins with perimenopause, a transitionary phase. This stage usually occurs eight to ten before you go through full menopause. It usually starts during your early 40s, but some can begin experiencing symptoms in their 30s.

So what happens in perimenopausal women?

At this point, estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that control the menstrual cycle, start to fluctuate. The ovaries produce these hormones more sporadically, leading to uneven spikes and dips. Because they directly impact menstruation, periods can become hard to predict. They may be shorter or longer, and women sometimes experience cycles where they don’t release an egg. In short, the work of the ovaries becomes unreliable and unpredictable. 

As you can imagine, hormonal shifts can wreak havoc on your body. It’s not just your reproductive system that becomes unpredictable. Perimenopausal women often go through sleepless nights, noticeable mood changes, and hot flashes that come out of nowhere. Other possible symptoms include:

• Painful intercourse
• Increased susceptibility to urinary tract infections
• Urinary incontinence
• Bone loss
• Changing cholesterol levels
• Irritability
• Depression
• Hair loss
• Fertility issues
• Changing libido

RELATED: Are You Experiencing Perimenopause Symptoms?

Menopause

Perimenopausal women will continue dealing with unpredictable hormone production until they hit menopause. Perimenopause is officially over when it’s been 12 months since the last period.

At this point, hormonal changes are less sporadic. The ovaries no longer produce an egg, and the constant fluctuation of estrogen and progesterone levels is over. Instead of jumping all over the place, these hormones and testosterone are at their lowest level yet. The body still produces the hormones, but they’re at a deficient levels.

Despite having a little more stability, the lack of hormones like estrogen still causes many problems. Many of the standard systems you see in perimenopausal women occur. For example, hot flashes and trouble sleeping often persist. But outside of those issues, you may also experience the following symptoms:

• Vaginal dryness
• Dry skin
• Night sweats
• Joint and muscle aches
• Memory lapse
• Headaches
• Racing heartbeat
• Hair loss
• Significantly reduced sex drive

Mood problems can continue to be a problem as well. Many menopausal women suffer from depression, erratic mood swings, and irritability.

Heart and Bone Problems:

Among the many organs benefiting from the ovarian hormone production, our heart and bones are the most crucial to our health. Hormonal fluctuations in perimenopause and menopause increase the risk of heart attacks 10x risks prior. Bone loss also increases dramatically due to hormonal insufficiency and bone fractures become a serious issue during the menopausal years. These conditions are the most common cause of mortality and disability in menopausal years. 

Should You Contact a Doctor?

Dr. Tahery specializes in working with nature to optimize your health during perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Tahery as a urogynecologist and female hormonal specialist has been helping women navigate the health and quality of life issues in these crucial years for the past 26 years.

RELATED: Menopause and Bio-Identical Hormones

Perimenopause and Menopause Treatment

Menopause is inevitable, and there’s no way to prevent it from occurring. However, there are many options for treating the many conditions affecting the health and quality of life. 

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is a way to address what’s going on inside the body directly. During the perimenopausal stage, your testosterone, estrogen and progesterone levels are all over the place. Hormone therapy can provide more balance and increase low hormone levels before, during, and after menopause bringing health and improving quality of life.

More and more we realize the potential in safe and effective methods of hormone therapy. Studies show significant benefit in women using hormones to counter the changes brought by lack of hormones in their body. Early use of hormones has shown to be most beneficial in supporting the heart and bone health and the many other issues that come with menopause. 

Dr.Tahery specializes and is experienced in using the multiple ways of delivering hormones that are appropriate for each individual. 

Anxiety and Stress

Perimenopause and menopause is also a time of significant personal and social change. Teenage children, (do I need to say more?) work issues, relationship changes,  loss or elderly parents are some of the environmental factors many encounter. Therefore, Anxiety and stress are common symptoms many women deal with and they are crucial to be addressed. 

Dr. Tahery will work with you to find the proper treatment through mind and body care. 

Lifestyle Changes

Dr. Tahery understands that each woman experiences perimenopause and menopause differently. Depending on the needs of your body, we recommend lifestyle changes to improve your health. 

One of the most common complaints in perimenopause and menopause is weight gain and reduced metabolism. Exercise and menopausal diet is one of the core principle of perimenopause and menopausal health. 

Dr. Tahery works with expert dieticians and therapists when needed to optimize health and well-being. 

Whether you’re struggling with the impact of early perimenopause or deep in a change of life, don’t hesitate to contact the offices of Dr. Michael Tahery. As an expert Urogynecologist and female hormone specialist with many years of experience in Los Angeles, Dr. Tahery has the expertise to help you through this transition. Reach out today to schedule your appointment.

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Not to be confused with premenopause, perimenopause affects all women differently. Some will notice changes in their 30s. However, others may go through this stage for only a few months before reaching menopause.

Either way, the body’s production of estrogen rises and falls unevenly. As a result, women experience a wide range of perimenopause symptoms. Fortunately, treatment options are available to ease the transition. Here are some of the most common symptoms women can experience:

Irregular Periods

Erratic periods are standard during perimenopause. Ovulation becomes more unpredictable, leading to changes in the flow and length of periods. The space between periods can vary as well.

The changes can be so significant that some women assume they have entered menopause. Despite the drop in fertility, it’s still possible to get pregnant during perimenopause. It’s only when a period doesn’t occur for 12 months that doctors typically diagnose full menopause.

A specialist may recommend treatment options if symptoms begin to interfere with daily life. These may include hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, and more.

RELATED: 4 Common Reasons You Might Be Experiencing Irregular Periods

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are an infamous sign of menopause. However, these bouts of sudden body heat can occur during perimenopause, too. They’re one of the most common symptoms, affecting more than two-thirds of women heading into menopause.

Characterized by an intense wave of heat over the face, neck, and chest, hot flashes can result in profuse sweating and sleeping issues. The frequency and severity of hot flashes vary based on the hormonal changes within.

Luckily, a specialist can help manage hot flashes with hormone treatments like birth control, patches, gels, and more.

Mood Swings

Not all perimenopause symptoms are physical. In many cases, the transitional period causes noticeable emotional instability. Sometimes called “Perimenopause Rage,” these mood swings differ from standard anger or frustration.

Some women describe it as a sudden shift to intense irritation, resentment, or a lack of patience.

Mood swings occur for a variety of reasons. They could be a product of sleep disruption from hot flashes or outside factors. Internally, there’s a chemical reason for the emotional shift.

Estrogen impacts the release of serotonin, the body’s mood regulator hormone. With erratic estrogen production, serotonin levels become unstable. With time lost symptoms improve as the body adjusts to a low hormonal environment.

RELATED: Menopause and Brain Fog

Weight Gain

Weight fluctuations are prevalent in perimenopausal women. Studies suggest that lower estrogen levels change how the body stores fat. Throughout the reproductive stage, women store fat in the hips and thighs. It’s subcutaneous fat, which is usually harmless and doesn’t increase one’s risk of disease.

However, during perimenopause, the dip in estrogen causes the body to store fat in the belly area. It takes the form of visceral fat. Unfortunately, visceral fat comes with higher risks of heart disease, insulin resistance, and a range of health problems.

Of all the perimenopause symptoms, this is one that many women overlook. A crucial part of treatment is to adopt a healthier lifestyle to combat weight gain.

RELATED: Weight management in Los Angeles

Vaginal Dryness

The vaginal tissue can suffer significantly during perimenopause. Estrogen is a vital hormone that governs vaginal elasticity and natural lubrication. When this hormone’s presence in the body decreases, dryness occurs, and vaginal tissue thins. 

The dehydration is not just limited to the vaginal tissue. Many women experience it on the face and other parts of the body as well. However, vaginal dryness can affect sexual health and comfort. Furthermore, a lack of moisture and resilience may make women more vulnerable to vaginal and bladder infections. 

Vaginal dryness is one of those perimenopause symptoms that many women don’t bring up to their specialist. But, there are plenty of treatment options to stave off the effects of hormonal changes.

If you notice any of these perimenopause symptoms, go to a specialist like Dr. Tahery for professional care. Dr. Michael Tahery is a urogynecologist who specializes in both women’s health and urology. He’s spent the last two decades helping women in the Los Angeles area manage this life change. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

The post Are You Experiencing Perimenopause Symptoms? appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

Menopausal symptoms

Hot flushes are common complaints in menopausal women. They accompany late-night sweats and rush of heat. Hot flushes disrupt sleep and prevent a good night rest. Hormonal therapy is the solution to this problem. Safe and effective for most women under proper supervision hormonal therapy eliminates hot flushes, restores sleep cycles, and allows for an uninterrupted night of sleep. Dr. Tahery is an expert in hormone replacement therapy and specializes in Bioidentical hormone therapy.

RELATED: ” I am not myself right before my period”

Bid Farewell To Late-Night Snacking

Though we’ve all been guilty of it, eating late in the evening can wreak havoc on your sleep cycle. Consuming food right before bed can prevent the release of melatonin, which is a hormone that regulates sleep. To curb your late-night cravings, opt for water instead. For optimal results, eat your last meal four hours before going to bed. Not only will you fall asleep quicker, but you’ll also notice a shift in the quality of your sleep.

Try Sleeping Aids

There are countless supplements, teas, and over-the-counter medications that are designed to help individuals get to sleep. While certain remedies may work for some, they may be less effective for others. It’s for this reason why it’s essential to find something that works for you.

Dr. Tahery has created Soothe to calm the nerves and improve sleep. It enhances sleep quality by increasing levels of dopamine, serotonin, and GABA. In essence, it promotes immune and nervous system health and works wonders in treating insomnia and other sleeping disorders.

RELATED: Why am I always exhausted?

Limit Caffeine Intake

Coffee addicts and tea lovers alike know how difficult it can be to cut back on caffeine consumption. While there’s nothing wrong with a cup of joe or tea throughout the day, be mindful of how much you’re drinking. If you rely on that midday cuppa to get you through the afternoon, try another alternative. Bananas, spinach, watermelon, and nuts can energize you greatly, and they won’t keep you up at night either. Moreover, some people turn to decaf options when they’re weaning off caffeine.

Create A Soothing Environment

A dimly lit, cool bedroom bodes well for a great night’s sleep. Don’t underestimate the power that temperate and mood lighting can have on your sleep. If it’s too warm, you’re bound to get uncomfortable, which often leads to incessant tossing and turning. If it’s too cold, you may end up tensing your body in an attempt to stay warm. With that said, it’s important to find your sweet spot. Once you have, adding a night light or candle to the room will create a serene atmosphere.

The post Why is Sleep Important and 5 Tips For Better Sleep appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

In order to maximize the use of hormone replacement therapy and to also make it safe, we, as scientists, are constantly working on discovering the benefits and risks of using HRT. Even though a lot of myths about hormone replacement therapy have been debunked, some of them are still very common and may discourage women from using hormones that can drastically improve their lives. The following are some of the most common myths about hormone replacement therapy I have come across in my patients over the past 25 years.

Hormone Replacement Therapy  Increases Risk of  Cancer and Disease

In balance, hormones decrease the risk of cancer and other diseases in women who use them. Studies show HRT reduces the risk of colorectal cancer significantly (by 1/3), reduces the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis, reduces the risk of heart attacks (number 1 killer of women after menopause), and contributes significantly to the quality of life. The most common concern women have is the possibility of a rise in the risk of breast cancer. The relationship between the use of hormone replacement therapy and the risk of breast cancer is still a controversial topic. In many large studies, Hormone replacement therapy has shown to minimally (by <1%) increase the risk of developing breast cancer, and other hormone associated cancers. There is sufficient evidence to support a slight increase ( <1%)  in the risk of breast cancer with long-term estrogen and progestin substitution (longer than 5 years). Breast cancer is also very well studied and cure rates are very high if detected early. Also, the lifetime risk of breast cancer in a woman without HRT is 1 in 8. Therefore regular self-exam, evaluation by Dr. Tahery, and yearly mammogram, and if needed breast ultrasound is important with or without HRT.  women at high risk for certain cancers may require closer and more regular evaluation as recommended by Dr. Tahery.

Bio-Identical Hormones

In terms of molecular and functioning, bioidentical hormone replacement are no different from the hormones produced by the body. Therefore likely they are better tolerated by the body than other forms. We compound both female and male hormones in a cream form. Experience has shown that cream applied to the skin provides gradual absorption and better tolerance by the body. Bioidentical hormones absorbed through the skin do not increase the risk of blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.

Hormone Replacement Therapy is Illegal

HRT has always been legal and is designed to make up for hormonal deficiencies. So it has a healing role. Huge numbers of postmenopausal or “hormonal women” benefit from HRT. Therefore, there is no reason why it should be illegal. You can buy and use HRT without legal concerns. 

Hormone Replacement Therapy is Good for Only 5 Years

There is no scientific evidence on the basis of which it is necessary to stop therapy after 5 years. Every woman is different and for each woman, HRT must be arranged individually. The risk of unwanted complications may be related to the length of time HRT is used. Scientific studies do not provide conclusive findings in this respect but some studies say that while the risk of developing breast cancer does not increase noticeably during the first 5 years of using HRT, it slightly begins to increase with longer therapy. 

There is a lot of controversy surrounding HRT. However, the benefits of using it may be much greater than the possible risks. We believe that each and every woman is different and HRT requires a personalized approach in order to get the most of it. 

Dr. Tahery is a big supporter of hormone replacement therapy in women during transition years of perimenopause to menopause. Based on his years of experience he believes HRT is essential to health after menopause under expert guidance. 

If HRT is of interest to you, Dr. Tahery looks forward to speaking with you about how it can enhance your life.

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