If you're in your late 30s or 40s, waking up at 3 a.m., and wondering why your anxiety is through the roof and your cycles are changing — this episode is for you. Dr. Jill and Dr. Ade break down everything you need to know about perimenopause and progesterone: what progesterone actually does (hint: it's way more than a "pregnancy hormone"), why bioidentical progesterone is different from synthetic progestins, and the clinical decision framework for when to start. Real science. No fear. Just answers.

In Episode 37, Dr. Jill Woodruff (gynecologist and certified menopause practitioner) and Dr. Ade Akindipe (DNP, functional medicine specialist) tackle the most common question they hear from women in their 40s: "I think I'm in perimenopause — when do I start progesterone?"

This episode covers:

• What perimenopause actually is and when it starts (hint: much earlier than you think)

• Why progesterone is often the first hormone to decline — and what that means for your sleep, mood, and cycles

• The critical difference between bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins

• Why the Women's Health Initiative doesn't apply to modern bioidentical hormone therapy

• Three clinical scenarios where progesterone is indicated in perimenopause

• How to talk to your provider and advocate for the care you deserve

GUEST DETAILS:

This is a co-host episode featuring Dr. Jillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMP (CMO, Modern Gynecology & Skin) and Dr. Ade Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-C (Founder, Rejuvenate Health and Wellness).