What You Need to Know about Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, yet it often comes with challenges that can feel anything but natural. Perimenopause, the transition leading up to menopause, can bring a variety of symptoms, from hot flashes and mood swings to changes in metabolism and weight gain. Understanding what’s happening in your body and how to manage these changes is key to maintaining well-being.

At Jatto Internal Medicine & Wellness, we are proud to offer bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to help combat symptoms of perimenopause and menopause in Harrisburg!

Recognizing Perimenopause Symptoms

Perimenopause symptoms can begin years before menopause itself, often in a woman’s 40s, though some may notice changes even earlier. These symptoms may include:

• Irregular periods
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Sleep disturbances
• Mood changes, including anxiety and depression
• Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen (sometimes referred to as menopause belly fat)
• Decreased energy levels

Recognizing Menopause Symptoms

Menopause officially begins when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. While some symptoms may overlap with perimenopause, menopause can also bring additional changes, including:

• Persistent hot flashes and night sweats
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort
• Sleep disturbances and fatigue
• Memory and concentration difficulties (often called “brain fog”)
• Decreased bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis
• Changes in cholesterol levels, affecting heart health

Understanding these symptoms can help women take proactive steps to maintain their well-being and seek appropriate support.

Managing Perimenopause and Menopause Symptoms

While every woman’s experience is unique, there are ways to ease the transition. Lifestyle adjustments, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and quality sleep can make a significant difference. Supplements for menopause belly fat, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and other medical interventions may also be helpful for those struggling with more severe menopause symptoms.

For the past 30 years, there has been a lot of confusion about the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Hormones are the messengers that control, balance, and maintain the function of every cell in our bodies. They act as master regulators, guiding growth from birth to puberty and into adulthood. As we age, maintaining hormonal balance is essential for overall health and well-being.

Hormones produced by the adrenal glands, sex glands, pituitary, hypothalamus, and gastrointestinal systems also play a key role in hair growth, skin health, and overall wellness. Imbalances in these hormones can contribute to hair thinning, skin aging, and other age-related issues.

It is important to move beyond the outdated mindset that chronic conditions such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, declining mobility, and cognitive decline are simply an inevitable part of aging. Many of these conditions are linked to hormonal changes and imbalances.

This is why it’s important to explore bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Unlike traditional HRT, which often uses synthetic hormones, BHRT is designed to more closely match the body’s natural hormones. It offers a way to manage perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms and support long-term health and well-being.

At Jatto Internal Medicine and Wellness, we encourage everyone to learn more about BHRT as a proactive tool for optimizing health — not just as a treatment for perimenopause and menopause, but as a way to maintain vitality and wellness as we age.

Support for Women’s Health in Pennsylvania

If you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause, finding the right support is essential. In Pennsylvania, Jatto Internal Medicine and Wellness has specialists who focus on managing perimenopause and menopause symptoms. Whether you’re looking for medical guidance or natural approaches to symptom relief, it’s important to seek solutions that work best for your body and lifestyle.

Menopause is a journey, not a destination. By understanding the changes happening in your body and exploring the right options, you can feel empowered to manage this transition with confidence.

Book Your Appointment Now

Take charge of your perimenopause and menopause journey with expert care. Schedule a virtual appointment or call 717-553-2474 to book your consultation with Dr. Jatto at Jatto Internal Medicine and Wellness in Harrisburg. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to manage your symptoms, restore balance, and help you feel your best at every stage.