The perimenopause movement sells women the lie that they are ruled by their hormones - Scorecard - MDSpire

The perimenopause movement sells women the lie that they are ruled by their hormones

  • By

  • Patricia Bencivenga

  • Adriane Fugh-Berman

  • March 26, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: The Perception of Hormonal Control in Women During Perimenopause: A Critical Examination

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
Condition
Key MechanismsHormonal fluctuations leading to various symptoms, but not solely responsible as aging and stress also contribute.
Target Population
Care Setting

Key Highlights

  • Perimenopause is often mischaracterized as a medical condition.
  • Symptoms attributed to perimenopause may be due to aging or stress.
  • The narrative of hormonal control undermines women's agency by framing them as victims of their biology.
  • Vasomotor symptoms are the only clearly attributable menopausal symptoms.
  • Women can lead fulfilling lives despite hormonal changes.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Recognize that not all symptoms in midlife women are due to perimenopause.

Management

  • Address bothersome vasomotor symptoms when they occur, considering non-hormonal options.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor symptoms but avoid attributing all to hormonal changes; emphasize individualized care.

Risks

  • Avoid unnecessary medicalization and hormonal treatments that may exacerbate symptoms.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Focus on lifestyle modifications and consider non-hormonal therapies for symptom management.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Promote healthy eating, exercise, and mental health support.
  • Encourage community support and empowerment for women.
  • Educate patients on the variability of symptoms and the need for personalized approaches.

Related Resources & Content

    Original Source(s)

    The perimenopause movement sells women the lie that they are ruled by their hormones

    • by Patricia Bencivenga, Adriane Fugh-Berman

    • March 26, 2026

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