At Juniper Family Health, our naturopathic physicians understand that even before perimenopause begins, many women in their late 30s notice shifts in their cycles, mood, energy, and fertility. While menopause may not be on the horizon just yet, the hormonal changes that kick-start the transition often begin during this time. Here's a guide rooted in expert insights from menopause associations, presented with our integrative approach in mind.
1. What Defines the Late Reproductive Years?
Age range: Typically 35–40, though variation is normal.
What's changing: Ovarian reserve (the number and quality of eggs) begins to decline, and hormone levels such as AMH (anti‑Müllerian hormone) and inhibin B slowly decrease.
Why it matters: These subtle shifts set the stage for more noticeable hormonal fluctuations later on (perimenopause).
2. Hormonal Patterns and Symptoms
Mood & brain fog: Progesterone becomes more inconsistent, even in regular cycles, contributing to worsening PMS symptoms including anxiety, low mood, fatigue or trouble concentrating.
Menstrual irregularity: Subtle shifts in menstrual cycle length and bleeding patterns are common.
Fertility subtleties: Less predictable ovulation and declining egg quality may impact fertility outcomes.
3. How We Help at Juniper Family Health
Menstrual cycle tracking and hormone lab assessments
Lifestyle & nutritional therapies
Targeted nutraceutical supplementation
Acupuncture
Prescription medications
Our goal: to ease transitions, reduce symptoms, and support fertility or cycle regularity.
The transition through your late reproductive years is a time of subtle but important change. By tuning in early and taking a proactive approach, you can steer toward balance—reducing symptoms, supporting fertility, and laying a foundation for the decades ahead.
In health and wellness,
Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
References:
The Menopause Society. (2019). Menopause practice: A clinician’s guide (6th ed.).
Harlow SD, Gass M, Hall JE, et al. Executive summary of the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop + 10: addressing the unfinished agenda of staging reproductive aging. Menopause. 2012;19(4):387–395.