Perimenopause Simplified

Is your man more tired than usual, moodier, or pulling away from intimacy? You’re not imagining it. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Joshua Gonzalez: a board-certified urologist and sexual medicine specialist to talk about the low testosterone epidemic and why men’s midlife health is often overlooked. We’ll cover how hormone changes impact men physically, emotionally, and in the bedroom, plus what women over 40 can do to better understand and support their partners. Whether your relationship feels disconnected or you simply want to know what’s going on behind the scenes, this conversation is equal parts informative, candid, and fun. You’ll learn: The signs and symptoms of low testosterone every woman should know Why men’s health in midlife is so often ignored or dismissed How low testosterone affects mood, energy, and relationships The truth about what’s really causing low libido in men Testing and treatment options, including TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) Evidence-based supplements that may help if your man isn’t ready for testosterone therapy Joshua R Gonzalez MD Joshua R. Gonzalez, MD, is a board-certified and fellowship-trained urologist and sexual medicine specialist who focuses on managing sexual dysfunctions in men and women at his self-named practice, Joshua R. Gonzalez, MD, in the West Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. At his state-of-the-art facility, Dr. Gonzalez understands the toll hormone deficiencies, menopause, arousal disorders, and erectile dysfunction (ED) can take on one’s quality of life. He offers complete general urology and sexual health care at his office to patients, many of who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community.   Connect with Dr. Joshua Gonzalez: Website Free Ebook: Elitist Next Level Testosterone Therapy Instagram TikTok PopStar Supplements   Sources: Free Testosterone Calculator Cardiovascular Safety of Testosterone Replacement Therapy Correlation Between Zinc and Testosterone Ashwagandha on Well-Being And Performance Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma Longifolia) Improves Serum Total Testosterone   WATCH ON YOUTUBE HERE   LOVE THE SHOW? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share with other women, so they can get the support they need in perimenopause!    CONNECT WITH CLAUDIA:  Website YouTube Instagram Facebook Inquiries   FREE RESOURCES:  Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes Perimenopause Daily Checklist HRT 3-Day Crash Course   GET SUPPORT:  Perimenopause Clarity Session The Perimenopause Method Program Perimenopause HRT Roadmap Course  

In this episode, Claudia gets vulnerable, sharing her own struggle with depression, the steps she took to overcome it, and how you can navigate depression in perimenopause.   In this episode we covered: How hormone changes in perimenopause affect mental health How nutrient imbalances and gut health play a role in depression The life transitions perimenopause women experience  Frustrations with your body and health in perimenopause The impact of unaddressed trauma Is it time to slow down or consider a career change? Steps to overcome depression including supplement suggestions WATCH ON YOUTUBE.    Links Mentioned: Episode 18: The Perimenopause Diet I Recommend Episode 10: Why You Can’t Sleep in Peri Episode 24: Rethinking Sleep in Perimenopause W/ Morgan Adams (Sleep Coach)  Necklace  Cure Hydration (use code: healthcoachclaudia to save 20%) Seeking Health   Sources: https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/5-hydroxytryptophan-5-htp https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5020390/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4393508/ https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/485215     Perimenopause Method (4-Month Program) A compassion-led program for high-achieving women 40+ who are ready to reclaim their energy, mood & metabolism — with real answers that finally make sense.  ✔️ Advanced testing to get real answers — no more guesswork ✔️ Personalized plans based on what your body needs ✔️ HRT guidance + how to advocate with a provider ✔️ A safe space to ask questions without overwhelm This is for the woman who’s done the Googling, listened to the podcasts, tried the supplements…and still doesn’t feel like herself. No fluff. Just real data, real support, and real progress. Learn more here.   LOVE THE SHOW? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share with other women, so they can get the support they need in perimenopause!    CONNECT WITH CLAUDIA:  Website YouTube Instagram Facebook Inquiries   FREE RESOURCES:  Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes Perimenopause Daily Checklist HRT 3-Day Crash Course   GET SUPPORT:  Perimenopause Clarity Session The Perimenopause Method Program Perimenopause HRT Roadmap Course   PRODUCTS WE LOVE: Equip Prime Protein (Save 15% w/ code: healthcoachclaudia) Microbiome Labs Total Gut Restoration (Save 15% w/ code: claudia123) BodyHealth Reds & Greens Powders Symphony Natural Health Melatonin Eusari Menoplay Non-Hormonal Solution Glow Below Vaginal Estrogen or DHEA For more products we recommend, click HERE.  

In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Perimenopause Simplified, Claudia sits down with Grey Area Drinking Coach and bestselling author, Sarah Rusbatch, to unpack the hidden impact of alcohol on women’s health, especially during perimenopause. From anxiety and sleep issues to weight gain and hormonal disruption, alcohol can quietly wreak havoc – yet it's often the last thing we question. Sarah shares her personal journey, the truth about Grey Area Drinking, and how thousands of women are rethinking their relationship with alcohol in midlife. If you've ever found yourself relying on that glass of wine to unwind or wondering if it's doing more harm than good, this episode is for you.   What we cover: What Grey Area Drinking really is (and how to know if you fall into it) Why Alcohol Use Disorder has skyrocketed in women over the past 30 years The connection between alcohol and perimenopause symptoms like anxiety, depression, and poor sleep Why so many women shift their drinking habits in midlife and how to know when it’s time The biggest benefits women report after ditching alcohol How to start drinking less (without shame, pressure, or perfection)   Connect with Sarah: Website Instagram Facebook The Women’s Wellbeing Collective 30-Day Alcohol-Free Program Beyond Booze: How to Create a Life You Love Alcohol-Free   Sources: Alcohol Use Disorder Gray Area Drinking Alcohol Use & Increased Symptom Burden in Midlife Women Unaware of Alcohol & Breast Cancer Risk Alcohol & Cancer Risk   CONNECT WITH CLAUDIA:  Website YouTube Instagram Facebook   FREE RESOURCES:  Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes Perimenopause Daily Checklist HRT 3-Day Crash Course   GET SUPPORT:  Perimenopause Clarity Session The Perimenopause Method Program Perimenopause HRT Roadmap Course   QUESTIONS?  Email: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   LOVE THE SHOW? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through perimenopause!   

In this episode of Perimenopause Simplified, Claudia opens up about a side of midlife that rarely gets discussed: what it’s really like to care for aging parents, while navigating your own hormone shifts, emotions, and identity. She shares a personal story about supporting her mom after hip surgery, how losing her dad shaped her perspective on forgiveness, and why so many women in their 70s are now facing serious health issues, due to the fallout of the WHI study and lack of hormone therapy access. Claudia also talks about the hard (but necessary) conversation she had with her mom about end-of-life planning…and why getting clear now can prevent stress and heartache later.  A raw, reflective episode that will hit home for any woman feeling the weight of midlife caregiving and a powerful reminder to take care of your health now.   In this episode, Claudia discusses: The emotional and physical demands of midlife caregiving Why she chose to forgive her father before he passed and what that taught her The ripple effects of the WHI study on women’s health and quality of life Stats on bone loss, dementia, sleep issues & metabolic decline in women over 40 The evolving relationship with her mom: from frustration to compassion How planning ahead for death can make space for grieving, instead of chaos   Sources: Alzheimer’s Facts Osteoporosis Stats Prevalence of Obesity Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause Sleep During Menopause Menopause and Cardiovascular Disease Risk   CONNECT WITH CLAUDIA:  Website YouTube Instagram Facebook   FREE RESOURCES:  Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes Perimenopause Daily Checklist HRT 3-Day Crash Course   GET SUPPORT:  Perimenopause Clarity Session The Perimenopause Method Program Perimenopause HRT Roadmap Course   QUESTIONS?  Email: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   LOVE THE SHOW? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through perimenopause!   

In this episode of Perimenopause Simplified, Claudia is joined by Dr. Ana Duarte, a medical doctor, expert in anti-aging and longevity medicine, and CSO of Eusari Nutrition. After 15+ years in pharmaceutical research, Ana hit her own perimenopause wall: burnt out, disconnected, and completely unprepared for the changes in her early 40s. That experience led her to pursue advanced training in women’s health and longevity – and to discover just how overlooked midlife women are. No roadmap. No conversation. Just silence, shame, and guesswork. So she founded Eusari, a science-backed wellness brand built by and for women in perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Ana blends cutting-edge medical science with deep empathy, helping women feel like themselves again. She’s also a speaker, writer, and passionate advocate for real, effective solutions to support women’s health and vitality in midlife and beyond. Whether you can’t take HRT or simply prefer not to, this episode is packed with evidence-based guidance to help you take back control of your health. You’ll learn: Why some women can’t or choose not to use hormone replacement therapy What non-hormonal alternatives women are turning to (and what actually works) The surprising science behind equol, a powerful ingredient for estrogen support What to look for in a trusted supplement brand How Dr. Ana’s product, MenoPlay, supports mood, sleep, and energy without hormones How to cut through the noise and make informed choices in the age of overwhelm   Connect with Ana Duarte, MD: Instagram: @dr.anacd TikTok: @dr.anacd Facebook: facebook.com/eusariwellness LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anacatalinaduarte Website: www.eusari.com Free Resources: Midlife Guides   Links Mentioned: Ep. 45 Supplements for Perimenopause: What to Know Menoplay   Sources: Acupuncture In Menopause Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for MenopausePhytoestrogens for Hot Flashes     Not afraid of hormone therapy, but need some clarity? Grab Claudia's popular course: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap.   Save $100 until July 31st with coupon code: ROADMAP100. Claudia breaks down everything, so it's easy to understand and so you feel confident in advocating for the care you deserve.  Check it out here.      CONNECT WITH CLAUDIA:  Website YouTube Instagram Facebook   FREE RESOURCES:  Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes Perimenopause Daily Checklist HRT 3-Day Crash Course   GET SUPPORT:  Perimenopause Clarity Session The Perimenopause Method Program Perimenopause HRT Roadmap Course   QUESTIONS?  Email: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   LOVE THE SHOW? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through perimenopause!   

Confused about when to start hormone replacement therapy? You’re not alone. In this episode of Perimenopause Simplified, we’re cutting through the mixed messages and breaking down when to consider starting HRT, what symptoms to look out for, and how to know if it’s the right move for you. If you’re in your 40s and feeling dismissed, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin…this one’s for you. We cover: Why hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is so confusing and what’s changed since the 2002 WHI study The difference between perimenopause and menopause & why that matters for HRT timing Common early symptoms that may signal hormone shifts (and which hormone to start with first) When estrogen might be added - it’s earlier than you think The risks of waiting too long to start HRT Why and when I started HRT myself   Sources: Hormone Therapy & Cardiovascular Disease: The Role of Timing Hormone Therapy & Cognition Prevention of Osteoporosis NAMS Hormone Therapy Position   To learn about hormone therapy, grab Claudia’s brand new, FREE resource: 3-Day HRT Crash Course. In just 3 quick emails, you’ll learn: 📌 What HRT is + how it works to improve symptoms 📌 The different types + how to choose for you 📌 Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!   

In this short, reflective episode, Claudia gets real about the power of gratitude–especially during the chaotic, emotional, and overwhelming season of perimenopause. If you're a busy, driven woman over 40 navigating hormone changes, aging parents, anxiety, or a constant sense of "not enough," this episode is your reminder to pause, breathe, and reframe. Learn how gratitude isn’t just a feel-good practice; it’s a brain-changing tool that helps you feel more grounded, clear, and connected.   In this episode, you'll hear: Why midlife women are more vulnerable to stress and comparison (01:01) Claudia’s personal reflection of chasing “enough” in her 30s (01:44) How gratitude physically rewires the brain (04:30) Why modern convenience makes this the easiest time to be alive–and yet the hardest on our nervous systems (05:27) How HRT helped improve Claudia’s mood & overall outlook on life (07:43) A simple 30-day gratitude practice you can start today (08:28)   To learn about hormone therapy, grab Claudia’s brand new, FREE resource: 3-Day HRT Crash Course HERE. In just 3 quick emails, you’ll learn: 📌 What HRT is + how it works to improve symptoms 📌 The different types + how to choose for you 📌 Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)   Source: The effects of gratitude expression on neural activity   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!   

About 15% to 50% of perimenopausal women may experience anxiety, often accompanied by depression, insomnia, and forgetfulness. In fact, anxiety is one of the main symptoms women reach out to me about. But unfortunately, a lot of healthcare providers aren't addressing the underlying imbalances associated with anxiety, besides thoughts, mindset, and/or trauma. And of course these things should be addressed, but there's more to the story...   In this episode, we covered: Anxiety in perimenopause  Hormone changes that cause anxiety Why progesterone is your best friend What to know about copper Vital food & lifestyle changes to make  Some supplements to consider   Mentioned in this episode: Matcha I love: https://amzn.to/4aQjAXv Perimenopause HRT Roadmap Course - Learn the ins and outs of hormone replacement therapy, get empowered with easy-to-understand information & gain confidence to advocate for yourself and get the support you need!   Sources: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/mood-changes-during-perimenopause-are-real-heres-what-to-know https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-anxiety-disorder https://www.fda.gov/consumers/womens-health-topics/women-and-anxiety https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10086901/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10517880/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8080935/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9577631/ https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics/digestive-diseases https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4872422/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0278262602005304   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!   

If you're a woman in your 40s who feels constantly anxious, moody, and mentally fried, it might not just be your hormones. In this episode of Perimenopause Simplified, I unpack one of the most overlooked hormone disruptors in midlife: overstimulation. From non-stop group chats to cluttered homes to the pressure to keep up on Instagram, our nervous systems are bombarded 24/7… and it’s silently wrecking our hormone balance, our energy, and our mood. I’m sharing my personal experience with digital burnout, why I’ve scaled back communication in my business and life, and how overstimulation is keeping so many midlife women stuck in survival mode – even when they’re doing “all the right things.”  You’ll learn: Why constant notifications, group texts & social media are wrecking your nervous system How overstimulation fuels hormone imbalances, fatigue, and mood swings The connection between overconsumption – digital and material – and midlife burnout Why boundaries, white space, and rest aren’t luxuries; they’re medicine The real reason “more stuff” isn’t making you happier (and what to do instead) How we help women simplify and reset inside The Perimenopause Method using testing, lifestyle shifts, and emotional recalibration ⏰The Perimenopause Method is open for enrollment! Learn more about how to work with me and my team HERE for highly personalized support, advanced testing & evidence-based midlife education – without the fluff.   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!

Estrogen often gets a bad rap, but it’s one of the most powerful and protective hormones in a woman’s body, especially in midlife. In this episode of Perimenopause Simplified, we’re unpacking what estrogen does, how it changes after 40, and what you need to know about supporting it through perimenopause and beyond. Whether you're dealing with brain fog, vaginal dryness, or mood swings, this episode will help you understand whether low estrogen might be at play – and what you can do about it. We also dive into hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the different forms of estrogen available, and why progesterone is essential if you choose to supplement. Estrogen isn’t the enemy; let’s set the record straight. What’s covered in this episode: The benefits of estrogen for your brain, heart, bones, and mood How estrogen levels fluctuate and decline during perimenopause and menopause Signs and symptoms of low estrogen vs. estrogen excess When to consider estrogen HRT and the different types (patches, gels, Biest & more) Why progesterone is needed when taking estrogen HRT How to support healthy estrogen detoxification through liver, gut, and lifestyle strategies Link Mentioned: Ep. 31: How Endocrine Disruptors Impact Perimenopause For a deeper dive into estrogen, listen to Ep. 36: Estrogen: Why We Love It & Need It w/ Jill Chmielewski, RN, BSN   🧐Got questions about perimenopause? You’re in luck! I’m hosting a (free) Live Q&A: Ask Me Anything About Perimenopause! 🗓️ Save the date: June 18th at 3 pm EST / 12 pm PST and CLICK HERE to save your spot.  Can’t attend live? No problem? Submit your questions ahead of time and we’ll send out a replay.   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey! 

In this episode of Perimenopause Simplified, we’re diving deep into cortisol, the stress hormone that plays a significant role in our health, especially for women over 40. If you’ve been feeling exhausted, anxious, or wired at night, it’s time to understand what might be going on with your cortisol levels. Cortisol can become dysregulated during perimenopause, making stress management even more crucial, as your body’s hormonal landscape shifts. Tune in to learn how to support your cortisol, manage stress, and feel your best during this transitional phase of life. What’s covered in this episode: What cortisol is and why it’s essential for your survival How chronic stress and hormone fluctuations in perimenopause can disrupt cortisol Why cortisol testing may not give you the full picture and the symptoms to recognize  The impact of poor sleep, blood sugar imbalance, and stress on your cortisol levels Simple, actionable tips to support your nervous system and optimize circadian rhythm Why trauma and feeling unsafe in your body can cause cortisol issues and how to heal 🧐Got questions about perimenopause? You’re in luck! I’m hosting a (free) Live Q&A: Ask Me Anything About Perimenopause! 🗓️ Save the date: June 18th at 3 pm EST / 12 pm PST and CLICK HERE to save your spot.  Can’t attend live? No problem? Submit your questions ahead of time and we’ll send out a replay.   Links Mentioned: Episode 65: The Missing Piece Behind Anxiety, Fatigue & Weight Gain: Your Nervous System Episode 66: Feeling Burnt Out in Your 40s? Here’s What Your Body Actually Needs   Blue Light Blocking Glasses Viva Rays Filter Optix   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!   

Feeling more tired, anxious, or irritable in your 40s—but still pushing through like you always have? In this episode, Claudia shares why the “hustle mode” that may have worked in your 30s starts to backfire in perimenopause–and what to do instead.  She opens up about the personal changes she’s made to her daily and weekly rhythm, and walks you through 5 simple, doable practices to help you preserve energy, regulate your nervous system, and feel more like yourself again. This isn’t about doing nothing. It’s about moving through life with intention, clarity, and ease, especially in a body that’s changing. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why women in their 40s become more stress-sensitive How pushing through, over-scheduling, and constant “doing” impacts your symptoms Real-life shifts Claudia made to stop burning herself out (and how you can too) 5 simple practices to reduce anxiety, feel more grounded, and prioritize what matters How pleasure, nature, and movement support hormonal health in midlife A reframe on slowing down as a strategy for productivity and well-being 💗Learn about Perimenopause Intensive, Claudia’s 8-week private coaching package for women ready to take action HERE. Limited spots available.   Links Mentioned Episode 65: The Missing Piece Behind Anxiety, Fatigue & Weight Gain: Your Nervous System Melissa Woodard   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!   

If you’re feeling anxious, exhausted, gaining weight, and like nothing is working anymore, this episode is for you. These symptoms aren’t just about hormones; they’re often signs of a dysregulated nervous system. In this episode, Functional Health & Integrative Nutrition Coach Claudia Petrilli, breaks down how your nervous system impacts hormones, metabolism, sleep, mood, and more during perimenopause. You’ll learn why so many women over 40 feel stuck in survival mode and what you can start doing right now to calm your nervous system, reclaim your energy, and feel like yourself again. In this episode, we cover: Why your nervous system matters more than ever in midlife How chronic stress affects cortisol, thyroid, estrogen, and progesterone Why feeling “tired but wired” is a sign your body is stuck in fight-or-flight How trauma wires your system for stress What a healthy cortisol rhythm should look like (and how to support it) 5 simple ways to regulate your nervous system today   💗Learn about Perimenopause Intensive, Claudia’s 8-week private coaching package for women ready to take action HERE. Limited spots available.   Episode 57. Releasing Trauma in Midlife: How Your Subconscious Shapes Your Health w/ Jennifer Ragazzo   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!   

In this raw and empowering episode of Perimenopause Simplified, we’re diving into one of the most overlooked, yet powerful ways to support your health in midlife: sex. From the hormonal magic of oxytocin to the emotional benefits of intimacy, I’ll share how good sex can actually help ease perimenopause symptoms—while also addressing the very real challenges modern couples face when it comes to connection. I’ll also open up about a dry spell in my own relationship, and how we found our way back to each other. Whether your libido is MIA or you’re craving deeper connection, this episode is for you.   You’ll learn: How oxytocin release during sex can lower cortisol and reduce perimenopause symptoms Why connection and pleasure are essential forms of self-care in midlife The difference between responsive vs. spontaneous desire—and why it matters How shame, judgment, and silence impact intimacy in long-term relationships Real talk about what happens when couples stop making time for sex Simple ways to rebuild emotional and physical connection with your partner   Links mentioned: The Difference Between Spontaneous and Responsive Sexual Desire Vanessa Marin Therapy Sex Talks Book  Vanessa Marin On Mel Robbins Jake Woodard Episode 56. Reignite Desire & Skyrocket Pleasure in Midlife with Susan Bratton   Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14675803/ https://drlindseyberkson.com/oxytocin-new-hormonal-kid-clinical-block/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924933810701553 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306987719312575 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23430983/   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!

In this episode of Perimenopause Simplified, Claudia dives deep into vaginal health during midlife, an often overlooked but essential part of overall well-being. Learn how hormonal shifts impact vaginal tissue, pH, and infection risk, and get practical, evidence-based solutions to support comfort, confidence, and intimacy. Whether you're experiencing dryness, odor, or recurring UTIs, this episode breaks down both hormonal and non-hormonal tools that can help you feel like yourself again.   In this episode, you'll learn: How declining estrogen affects vaginal tissue, moisture, and pH balance Why changes in pH can increase UTIs, bacterial vaginosis, and yeast infections The benefits and safety of vaginal estrogen for all women Non-hormonal options like DHEA, hyaluronic acid, and clean OTC products Key nutrients and supplements that support blood flow and tissue health How vaginal rejuvenation tools (like medical vibrators) improve circulation and elasticity   Links mentioned: Ep. 62: Perimenopause + Your Pelvic Floor: Fix Leaks, Pressure & Pain w/ Christina Walsh, PT Dr. Rachel Rubin  EWG Skin Deep Glow Below Nitric Oxide Foria Wellness Joylux Red Light Mv.health   Sources: Nitric Oxide Study  Vitamin E Study   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!

On this week’s episode of Perimenopause Simplified, Claudia is joined by Christina Walsh, a New Orleans mama of two, physical therapist, published researcher, and cofounder of Tighten Your Tinkler–a pelvic floor rehab method designed specifically for women. Christina knows firsthand what it’s like to live with pelvic floor dysfunction–and how to heal naturally, without kegels or invasive devices. Together, we dig into what every woman 35+ needs to know about pelvic floor health in perimenopause.   In this episode, I cover: What exactly is the pelvic floor and why it matters in your 40s+ Common symptoms of a weak pelvic floor (i.e. bladder leaks, heaviness, pain, urgency) How hormone changes in perimenopause impact your pelvic floor The connection between pelvic floor health and intimacy Why Christina says kegels aren’t the answer (and what to do instead) Simple, non-invasive strategies to restore strength and function—at home   Whether you're dealing with leaks, pressure, prolapse, or pain during sex, this episode is for you!   To connect with Christina Walsh: Website: https://www.tightenyourtinkler.com  Signature Program: Tighten Your Tinkler (Save $50 with coupon code: CLAUDIA) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tighten.your.tinkler/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tightenyourtinkler   Resources Mentioned: Tighten Your Tinkler Quiz  10-minute Decompression Exercise Squatty Potty      To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!  

Feeling stuck, exhausted, or like your body is working against you in midlife? This episode is your tough-love wake-up call, because thriving in perimenopause starts with radical ownership. I’m breaking down the patterns that keep women overwhelmed, inflamed, and waiting for “someday”, and offering a powerful invitation to take back your time, energy, and mindset–starting now.   In this episode, I cover: Why overwhelm is often a choice–and how to change it The hidden cost of people-pleasing and lack of boundaries How social media might be draining your energy and self-worth Common mindset traps that sabotage long-term progress What it really means to choose progress over perfection A powerful metaphor that will shift how you spend your time   ⏰Today’s the final day to join The Perimenopause Method – enrollment closes TONIGHT!     To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website   FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method BOOK A CLARITY CALL WITH CLAUDIA HERE HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com 💗Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!

Think perimenopause starts in your late 40s? Think again! Many women start experiencing subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) hormone shifts in their mid-30s. But doctors often dismiss these early symptoms. In this episode, Claudia breaks down why perimenopause begins earlier than you expect–and what you can do to start feeling better now.   We’re covering: Why perimenopause isn’t just about your period changing–it’s a whole-body shift The first signs of perimenopause (that most women overlook) Why conventional medicine ignores these early symptoms What’s actually happening in your body during this stage How to take back control so you don’t have to suffer through perimenopause   👉🏼Save Your Spot for Claudia’s FREE Masterclass on April 17th: 🔥 Energy, Mood & Metabolism: How to Fix the Top Perimenopause Struggles After 35! >>> RSVP HERE   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website 👉🏼 BOOK A CLARITY CALL WITH CLAUDIA FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!  

In this week’s episode, Claudia addresses one of the BIGGEST frustrations women face–going to their OB/GYN for perimenopause help, only to realize they’re not as knowledgeable about hormones as we expect. Too often, doctors miss the full picture, leaving women dismissed and without real solutions.   We’re covering: Why your OB/GYN is great for pregnancy–but often clueless about perimenopause Why perimenopause isn’t just about estrogen and progesterone The common treatments doctors prescribe that don’t actually fix the root cause What you really need to do to start feeling better   👉🏼Save Your Spot for Claudia’s FREE Masterclass on April 17th: 🔥 Energy, Mood & Metabolism: How to Fix the Top Perimenopause Struggles After 35! >>> RSVP HERE    Source: https://www.contemporaryobgyn.net/view/survey-shows-menopause-curriculums-lacking-in-residency-programs   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website 👉🏼 BOOK A CLARITY CALL WITH CLAUDIA FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!      

Progesterone is one of the most essential hormones for women’s health. But after 35, you start to lose this amazing hormone. In this episode, Claudia dives into what you need to know about progesterone, why she believes most women over 35 should replace it, common questions she gets about progesterone, and more.   We covered: Symptoms of low progesterone Anovulatory cycles in perimenopause Why estrogen is not the enemy How stress can hinder progesterone  Benefits Claudia experienced with progesterone HRT Misconceptions about progesterone Forms of progesterone To cycle or not to cycle progesterone And more!       👉🏼Save Your Spot for Claudia’s FREE Masterclass on April 17th: 🔥 Energy, Mood & Metabolism: How to Fix the Top Perimenopause Struggles After 35! >>> RSVP HERE     Links mentioned: Episode 32 with Carol Petersen Ona’s Natural Progesterone   To connect with Claudia Petrilli:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Website BOOK A CLARITY CALL WITH CLAUDIA FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap  QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com   Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!