Perimenopause

Perimenopause brings hormone changes that affect periods, sleep, mood, weight, skin, and energy. At her practice in Beverly Hills, California, experienced OB/GYN Lia LaBrant, MD, offers thoughtful perimenopause care with clear guidance and practical support. Dr. LaBrant and the team help you understand what’s changing and how to feel more balanced through this transition. For compassionate perimenopause care, call Lia LaBrant, MD, or schedule a consultation online today.

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transition time into menopause. During this stage, your ovaries make changing levels of the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormone shifts affect the menstrual cycle and many parts of daily health.

Perimenopause often starts in a woman’s 40s, though some patients notice changes earlier. It usually lasts several years. Menopause begins after 12 months without a period.

Every patient has a different experience. Some notice mild changes. Others deal with symptoms that affect work, sleep, relationships, and confidence. Dr. LaBrant helps patients understand what’s typical and what needs closer attention.

What symptoms does perimenopause cause?

Perimenopause symptoms can change from month to month. Periods could come closer together or farther apart, and be heavier, lighter, or less predictable. These shifts happen as ovulation becomes less regular.

Other common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Sleep disruption
• Fatigue
• Mood changes
• Brain fog
• Vaginal dryness
• Lower sex drive
• Weight changes
• Bloating

Some patients also notice headaches, breast tenderness, joint aches, anxiety, or skin changes. Dr. LaBrant reviews the full picture because symptoms often overlap with thyroid changes, anemia, stress, and other health concerns.

How does a doctor diagnose perimenopause?

Diagnosis starts with a detailed conversation. Dr. LaBrant asks about your periods, symptoms, sleep, mood, sexual health, medications, and family history. She also considers your age and overall health.

A pelvic exam or lab tests help when symptoms are unclear. Blood work checks your hormone levels, thyroid function, iron levels, and other markers. Testing also helps rule out concerns that need separate treatment.

The Lia LaBrant, MD, team explains each result in plain language. Patients leave with a clearer understanding of their bodies and how to manage perimenopause.

How is perimenopause treated?

Perimenopause treatment depends on your symptoms, health history, and how it affects your daily life. Dr. LaBrant could recommend:

• Lifestyle guidance
• Hormone therapy
• Nonhormonal medication
• Vaginal estrogen
• Supplements

Care also includes preventive health. This involves Pap smears, breast health guidance, bone density testing, heart health checks, and weight management. These areas matter because hormonal changes contribute to conditions like osteoporosis (weakened bones).

Dr. LaBrant and the team help patients move through perimenopause with confidence instead of confusion. For expert perimenopause care, call Lia LaBrant, MD, or book an appointment online today.