Menopause
Evidence-based hormone therapy for lasting vitality after menopause
What Is Menopause?
Menopause is officially reached when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. At this stage, the ovaries have significantly reduced their production of estrogen and progesterone, leading to a range of symptoms and long-term health considerations.
While menopause is a natural biological process, the hormonal changes it brings can profoundly affect your energy, mood, body composition, cardiovascular health, bone density, and cognitive function. The good news is that these changes are treatable.
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms associated with menopause include:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort
- Sleep disturbances and insomnia
- Weight gain, particularly visceral (abdominal) fat
- Mood changes, anxiety, or depression
- Brain fog, memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating
- Decreased libido and sexual dysfunction
- Thinning hair and changes in skin elasticity
- Joint stiffness and muscle loss
- Increased risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease
What Causes Menopause?
- Complete cessation of ovarian estrogen and progesterone production
- Significant testosterone decline
- Reduced insulin sensitivity and metabolic slowdown
- Changes in hunger and satiety hormones (ghrelin and leptin)
- Increased inflammatory markers
- Accelerated bone density loss
How Soluna Vitality Treats Menopause
At Soluna Vitality, we help women navigate menopause with confidence. Our physician-led approach focuses on restoring hormonal balance, protecting long-term health, and helping you feel like yourself again.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) with estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone as indicated
Comprehensive lab testing including advanced lipid panels, inflammatory markers, and bone density assessment
Metabolic health optimization to address insulin resistance and weight changes
Cardiovascular risk assessment and prevention strategies
Bone health monitoring and support
Personalized nutrition and supplement recommendations
Ongoing follow-up and protocol adjustments
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hormone therapy safe after menopause?
When prescribed and monitored by a qualified physician, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is considered safe for many women and may offer protective benefits for cardiovascular health, bone density, and cognitive function. At Soluna Vitality, we use evidence-based protocols, thorough lab testing, and ongoing monitoring to ensure your treatment is safe and effective.
How long can I stay on hormone therapy?
The duration of hormone therapy is individualized. Many women benefit from BHRT for years or even decades, depending on their health profile, risk factors, and treatment response. We work with you to regularly reassess your protocol and make adjustments as needed. There is growing evidence that the benefits of hormone therapy often outweigh the risks when properly managed.
Can menopause cause weight gain even if I eat well and exercise?
Yes. Hormonal changes during menopause, particularly declining estrogen and increased insulin resistance, can shift your body composition toward more visceral fat and less lean muscle, even without changes in diet or exercise. This is one of the most frustrating aspects of menopause, and it is why hormonal optimization and metabolic support are so important.
What is the difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are plant-derived compounds that are structurally identical to the hormones your body naturally produces. Synthetic hormones have a different molecular structure. Because bioidentical hormones match your body's own hormones, they are often better tolerated and more physiologically appropriate. At Soluna Vitality, we exclusively use bioidentical hormones.
Related Conditions
Menopause is often connected to other hormonal and metabolic conditions. Learn more:
Ready to Address Your Menopause?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ridgeway to discuss your symptoms, get comprehensive testing, and create a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for you.