By Dr. Jila Senemar 1-Minute Read
Welcome to ASK AN EXPERT, a series where we pose your real questions to our menopause experts for the answers you need. Have a question? Post it on The After Party, our private Facebook Group.
Your Question:
“Should I try HRT in perimenopause or wait until I am fully in menopause? There seems to be conflicting info out there and it’s starting to feel confusing.”
The Answer:
From Dr. Jila Senemar, a board-certified OB/GYN, certified menopause specialist, longevity physician, and founder of JilaMD, a concierge practice that provides personalized care with a focus on perimenopause, menopause, metabolic optimization, and more.
“You don’t need to wait until you are fully in menopause to consider hormone therapy. In fact, for many women, starting during perimenopause, when symptoms like hot flashes, sleep changes, mood swings, and brain fog often begin, can be both effective and beneficial.
Research shows that initiating therapy within 10 years of your final menstrual period (and before age 60) is generally the safest window, and may help protect against bone loss, cardiovascular changes, and other midlife health shifts. The decision, however, isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your personal health history, risk factors, and goals should guide the timing.
If your symptoms are impacting your quality of life, it’s worth discussing the option now with a clinician trained in menopause care rather than 'waiting it out.'”
“Research shows that initiating therapy within 10 years of your final menstrual period (and before age 60) is generally the safest window.”
Me.No.Pause.
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