Dr. Louisa Albertyn Links 4-10 Years of Perimenopause to Anxiety, Insomnia and HRT Options
Updated
Updated · sowetan.co.za · Aug 17
Dr. Louisa Albertyn Links 4-10 Years of Perimenopause to Anxiety, Insomnia and HRT Options
1 articles · Updated · sowetan.co.za · Aug 17
Summary
Perimenopause can begin 4 to 10 years before menopause, and Dr. Louisa Albertyn said fluctuating oestrogen and falling progesterone can trigger anxiety, insomnia, mood changes and hot flushes well before periods stop.
Progesterone decline most commonly drives insomnia and anxiety, she said, while oestrogen swings are tied to hot flushes, brain fog, night sweats, weight gain and later risks such as osteoporosis and reduced cardiovascular protection.
Hormone replacement therapy remains the first-line treatment because it can ease symptoms while protecting bones, brain and heart health, though Albertyn said care must be tailored and some women may need patches, gels or tablets.
Breast cancer can rule out HRT, while prior blood clots or smoking steer doctors away from oral therapy; antidepressants may also be used off-label for severe depression, anxiety or hot flushes.
During the Sadag Facebook Q&A, Albertyn urged workplaces, families and clinicians to recognize hormonal changes early and support women who say they no longer feel like themselves.