Emily Koska (right) discusses lab results with a client.

Women’s hormone health plays a crucial role in an individual’s overall well-being, especially during the transitional phases of perimenopause and menopause. As women age, hormone levels—particularly estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—begin to fluctuate, leading to a range of symptoms such as irregular cycles, fatigue, low libido, and mood swings. These changes can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, which makes it essential to address hormonal imbalances early on.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has emerged as an effective solution. HRT helps alleviate symptoms. In addition, HRT can provide long-term protective benefits against conditions such as genitourinary syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Leading the way in this treatment at Valley Vital Medicine is Emily Koska MSN, APRN, FNP-C.

What is perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is a hormonal transition, primarily involving estrogen and progesterone, that may begin in a woman’s mid-30s to 40s. When this transition occurs, the body begins to recalibrate as its reproductive years wind down. Perimenopause can be marked by symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and irregular periods.

Menopause

Menopause, the official end to a woman’s reproductive years, is marked by 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle. It is a natural biological process and usually happens in a person’s late 40s and early 50s as the ovaries stop producing progesterone and estrogen. When this happens, women may experience symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain, bone loss, and sleep disturbances, but it’s important to remember that menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience.

Some experts suggest that symptoms over the age of 60, including brain fog, joint pain, hair thinning, and changes in skin elasticity, are linked to menopause. Because of these wideranging symptoms, women are often misdiagnosed and therefore receive inadequate treatment during this transitional phase.

“Going through a misdiagnosis while experiencing symptoms can be a very frustrating and overwhelming experience,” Koska said. “Education on this topic is important because when women understand that symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety, and fatigue are part of the process, it empowers them to seek the right solutions, get support, and take control of their health. With a well-trained hormone specialist, women can navigate this phase with confidence and understanding.”

Many women believe menopause is “just the way it is” for aging women. However, Valley Vital Medicine has resources that can help women thrive through menopause. Menopause does not have to be viewed as a “negative” phase of life, but a time to transition to a new season gracefully with vibrancy.

What hormones are involved?

Estradiol: is the primary type of estrogen secreted by the ovaries. Production stops after menopause. Estrogen is beneficial for reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Estrogen also protects against heart disease, protects the brain, enhances mood, improves vaginal health, and helps skin elasticity.

Progesterone: is produced by the ovaries after ovulation. During reproductive years, it helps the uterus prepare for and support pregnancy. Progesterone is beneficial for supporting bone health, cardiovascular health, and brain function. It is also helpful in stabilizing mood and improving sleep.

Androgens: are produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. The big players are testosterone, DHEA, and androstenedione. Androgens significantly decline after menopause. Testosterone is beneficial for energy, sexual health, muscle mass, bone density, mood, cognitive function, and regulating fat distribution.

What is hormone replacement therapy?

HRT aims to achieve hormone optimization through a personalized approach to managing the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. At Valley Vital Medicine, Koska and the team advocate for bioidentical hormones which are chemically identical to those naturally produced by the body and often sourced from plants.

There are several modalities for HRT ranging from pills, patches, creams, and pellets. Whichever method is chosen, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of HRT with a healthcare provider. HRT is widely regarded as a safe and effective option for improving quality of life during and after menopause.

The Valley Vital Medicine Approach

“Throughout your life, it is important to work to build muscle mass, eat a whole food diet, reduce stress, and focus on adequate sleep,” Koska said. “You want to take care of yourself before entering perimenopause. Lifestyle preparation helps reduce negative effects many women experience during this stage of life.”

Instead of just addressing symptoms, Valley Vital Medicine seeks to understand the underlying imbalances contributing to hormonal shifts. They look at the whole picture—nutrition, lifestyle, stress, thyroid function, inflammation, and overall health—to create a customized treatment plan.

If you’re struggling with your hormones and want to feel vibrant again, Valley Vital Medicine is here to help! Book a complimentary discovery call with their team to get started. www.valleyvitalmedicine.com/call