thyroid

Menopause & Hormones: What’s Really Going On?

What Happens to Your Hormones in Perimenopause and Menopause?

If you're in your late 30s to early 50s and feeling more anxious, exhausted, moody, or foggy than usual—this blog is for you.

Many women blame menopause for their symptoms. And while they’re not wrong, it’s more complex than just “low estrogen.” It’s a full-body shift in hormone balance that affects everything from sleep and mood to weight and confidence.

Let’s explore what’s really happening—and how you can support your body through it.

When Your Hormones Shift, So Does Your Reality

This isn’t just a phase. It’s a transformation.

Hormone imbalance in perimenopause and menopause affects every part of your life:

  • You might snap at people you love.

  • Cry over things that never used to bother you.

  • Struggle to focus at work.

  • Wake up wired at 3 a.m.

These changes aren’t “just in your head.” They’re hormonal—and they’re real.

Understanding Hormone Imbalance in Midlife

During perimenopause and menopause, multiple hormones shift at once. Each one affects how you feel:

Estrogen Imbalance

  • Fluctuates in perimenopause, eventually drops in menopause

  • Symptoms: hot flashes, anxiety, heavy periods, breast tenderness

Low Progesterone

  • One of the first to decline

  • Symptoms: poor sleep, mood swings, PMS-like symptoms, irritability

High Cortisol (Stress Hormone)

  • Increases from chronic stress

  • Symptoms: anxiety, overwhelm, wired-but-tired feeling

Blood Sugar & Insulin Resistance

  • Midlife changes impact how your body handles carbs

  • Symptoms: belly weight gain, energy crashes, cravings

Thyroid Imbalance

  • Often affected during hormonal transitions

  • Symptoms: fatigue, brain fog, depression, sensitivity to cold

Low Testosterone in Women

  • Gradually declines with age

  • Symptoms: low libido, low motivation, less muscle tone, reduced confidence

What You Can Do Right Now for Hormone Balance

You can feel like yourself again. Here are a few ways to support your hormones naturally:

1. Prioritize Sleep

2. Move Your Body

  • Daily movement supports blood sugar and stress hormones

  • Try walking, strength training, or yoga

3. Manage Stress

  • Cortisol balance is key to overall hormone health

  • Try breathwork, journaling, nature time, or calming herbal teas

4. Support Your Gut Health

  • A healthy gut helps detox excess hormones

  • Eat fiber-rich foods, stay hydrated, and watch for constipation

5. Balance Blood Sugar

  • Eat protein, fiber, and healthy fats at every meal

  • Avoid skipping meals or relying on sugar for energy

Can I Help You Feel Like You Again?

Every woman’s hormone story is unique. That’s why I offer a Can I Help Call—a free chat to understand your symptoms and see if I can guide you back to balance.

Book your Call today and let’s explore what’s really going on behind your symptoms.

This is for educational purposes only and does not take the place of a medical consultation.

Have a wonderful day.

MK