Short Fuse? “Moodiness in Menopause” – Claudia

01/22/25 • 20 min

How do mood changes impact women during menopause?

Dr. Terri-Ann Samuels welcomes Claudia Vasquez to discuss her journey through menopause. Claudia shares how she discovered Dr. Samuels after noticing mood changes her former ob GYN couldn't address. During their consultation, Dr. Samuels conducted extensive hormone tests and prescribed a tailored formula.

Claudia initially resisted but followed Dr. Samuels' plan. The treatment improved her mood, energy, and personal relationships. Claudia emphasizes mood changes over other symptoms like hot flashes. She discusses cultural barriers that prevent Latina women from seeking help.

Dr. Samuels highlights the importance of tailored treatments. Claudia encourages women to research and advocate for their health. Dr. Samuels stresses the significance of self-care for overall well-being.

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Schedule a consult with Dr. Samuels HERE or by calling 832-831-0362.

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Key Takeaways

1. It’s important to seek professional help for menopausal symptoms instead of enduring them alone. Claudia's experience underscores that specialists like Dr. Samuels can offer more tailored and effective treatments.

2. Mood changes, rather than hot flashes, can be the most disruptive menopausal symptom for some women. Addressing mood issues with the right hormonal treatments can drastically improve quality of life.

3. Each woman’s menopausal experience is unique, and treatment should be customized to address individual symptoms and needs. Dr. Samuels emphasizes the importance of personalized medicine through extensive hormone testing.

4. Cultural norms, particularly in Latino communities, often dictate that women should handle menopausal symptoms on their own. Encouraging open conversations about menopause can help more women seek and receive necessary treatment.

5. Effective management of menopausal symptoms not only improves individual well-being but also has a positive impact on relationships and daily life. A happier, healthier woman contributes positively to her family and work environment.

These themes collectively emphasize that menopause management should be proactive, personalized, and openly discussed to ensure women can live their lives to the fullest.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Podcast for women on menopause, featuring Claudia.

05:32 Tense conversation between financial advisor and client.

07:43 Daughter's boyfriend drops furniture; mom surprises.

12:23 Inspiration, persistence, and barriers for Latina women.

13:54 Realizing menopause symptoms and seeking help.

17:40 Research: benefits beyond immediate health improvements.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do mood changes impact women during menopause?

Subscribe to The Menopod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Schedule a consult with Dr. Samuels HERE or by calling 832-831-0362.

Follow Dr. Samuels on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Key Takeaways

These themes collectively emphasize that menopause management should be proactive, personalized, and openly discussed to ensure women can live their lives to the fullest.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Podcast for women on menopause, featuring Claudia.

05:32 Tense conversation between financial advisor and client.

07:43 Daughter's boyfriend drops furniture; mom surprises.

12:23 Inspiration, persistence, and barriers for Latina women.

13:54 Realizing menopause symptoms and seeking help.

17:40 Research: benefits beyond immediate health improvements.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Previous Episode

Destigmatizing Menopause and Its Impact on Mental Health - Heather

What are the primary challenges that women face during perimenopause and menopause?

In this episode of Menopod, Dr. Terri-Ann Samuels speaks with Heather York, her patient who discusses her experience with perimenopause and menopause. Heather highlights her struggles with depression and anxiety, conditions exacerbated by hormonal changes. After an unsatisfactory experience with a different doctor, Heather discovered Dr. Samuels through a local TV interview.

Their discussion covers hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and its benefits, debunking fears about HRT leading to cancer. Heather also mentions the importance of self-advocacy, including seeking second opinions when necessary. Her journey underscores the need for personalized care and adequate information regarding menopause.

For Heather, finding the right treatment greatly improved her quality of life, reducing her anxiety and depression. The exchange illuminates perimenopause and menopause's emotional toll, promoting awareness and proper management strategies.

Subscribe to The Menopod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Schedule a consult with Dr. Samuels HERE or by calling 832-831-0362.

Follow Dr. Samuels on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Key Takeaways

1. Persistence and advocating for oneself are crucial in finding a healthcare provider who understands and can effectively treat one’s medical needs, especially in specialized areas like menopause.

2. Menopause can exacerbate underlying mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, and it's important to recognize this in order to seek appropriate treatment and support.

3. There is a lot of fear and misinformation surrounding HRT, particularly the perceived risk of cancer, which can deter women from pursuing helpful therapies. Proper education and genetic testing can alleviate some of these concerns.

4. Personalized treatment, including the use of HRT and supplements like magnesium, can significantly improve menopause symptoms and overall quality of life, highlighting the importance of tailored healthcare.

5. Openly discussing menopause and mental health issues can reduce stigma, provide needed support, and empower women with the knowledge to seek holistic treatment options.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Long process led to hormone replacement therapy.

03:23 Girl's false accusation at work sparks anger.

09:44 Struggling to find specialized menopause medical care.

10:41 Estrogen reduces breast cancer incidence and mortality.

13:53 Menopause exacerbates mental health, heat sensitivity.

16:49 Advocate for yourself, keep trying, don't give up.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Next Episode

Surviving and Thriving after Surgical Menopause – Verlinda

How does one navigate the tumultuous journey of menopause with grace and resilience?

Verlinda Higgins's story is a testament to the strength and adaptability of women facing surgical menopause. After undergoing a complete hysterectomy and experiencing relentless hot flashes, she found solace in a customized hormone therapy plan.

Through her dedication and the guidance of Dr. Terri-Ann Samuels, Verlinda transformed her life and became an inspiration to others.

Key Takeaways

Menopausal symptoms can vary greatly among women, and some may experience severe and frequent hot flashes that significantly impact their daily lives, as described by Verlinda Higgins.
Different treatments, such as injections and pills, have different effects and side effects. Individuals need to find what works best for them through consultation and sometimes trial and error.
Working with specialized medical professionals, like an endocrinologist who conducts thorough tests and takes a personalized approach, can lead to better management of menopausal symptoms.
Hormone therapy, including both estrogen and testosterone, can significantly improve quality of life, energy levels, and overall well-being, as experienced by Verlinda Higgins.
Financial constraints and fear of potential side effects can be significant barriers to seeking help. Addressing these concerns and investing in health, similar to investing in cosmetic activities, can have profound benefits for oneself and one's family.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Excessive bleeding led to ovary removal, menopause.
03:21 Body burns frequently, disrupting sleep profoundly.
08:24 Menopause affects you and your family deeply.
09:56 Women often face unexpected surgical menopause consequences.
14:10 Long-term estrogen, regular screening; no cancer fear.

Subscribe to The Menopod on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Schedule a consult with Dr. Samuels HERE.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.