Dr. Theresa Pugh joins Dr. Mary in this episode to peel back the curtain on perimenopause—with no fluff, no dismissal, and absolutely no judgment. Their conversation isn’t about pathologizing a natural life shift; it’s about unpacking it with clarity and integrity.
What We Cover (And Why It Matters):
- It starts earlier than you think. Many people in their 30s and 40s are already navigating this transition—and often getting told they’re “too young” for it.
- Hormones are… complicated. Estrogen dominance and low progesterone can coexist, creating confusing symptoms like insomnia, anger, or waking at 3 a.m.
- Symptoms aren’t just “in your head.” Think tight shoulders, constipation, frozen shoulder, hip pain, or anxiety—they can all link back to hormonal shifts, stress, and nervous system overload.
- Labs don’t always give the complete story. Instead, Dr. Pugh recommends looking at symptoms in patterns, considering fascia, stress, and nervous system health as part of the bigger picture.
- Supplements & tools (when used wisely). Expect thoughtful discussion around DIM, methylated B-vitamins, hormone detox, and what to do if progesterone doesn’t agree with you.
- Track symptoms like a pro. Because when your experience matters—and the system often minimizes it—you need to show up for yourself with clear documentation and advocacy tools.
Why This Episode Feels So Different
This isn’t the usual “just wait it out” script. It’s a smart, human-first conversation grounded in integrative medicine. Dr. Pugh—who brings the lived-in wisdom of someone who’s navigated autoimmune illness herself—gives us nuance, not narratives. Her reflections aren’t just informed by medicine; they’re informed by compassion and real-world complexity.
Bottom Line (Because You Deserve It)
Perimenopause isn’t a broken code or a diagnosis to passively accept—it’s a phase that asks us to pause, understand, and intentionally respond. You don’t have to go it alone, and you don’t have to pretend everything is “fine.”
If this conversation resonated with you, and you’re ready to get real answers—and real relief—our Menopause & Perimenopause Treatment program is designed to address root causes, not just mask symptoms. Together, we’ll create a plan that supports your body, your energy, and your quality of life through every stage of midlife.
Because this isn’t just a shift—it’s an opportunity to feel stronger, clearer, and more connected to yourself than ever before.
