Introduction:
Have you ever been told your lab results are "normal" even though you feel anything but? If you’re in Perimenopause or Menopause and struggling with fatigue, mood swings, or sleep issues, it may be time to look deeper.
In Episode 3 of Empowered Menopause, Dr. Gabrielle Francis explains why standard blood tests often miss the real issues and how to advocate for yourself through functional hormone testing and integrative care. Building a wellness team that honors your whole-body health is one of the most powerful steps you can take during this life transition.
Why Standard Lab Tests May Not Be Enough
Many women are told their hormone levels are "within range," yet continue to experience classic signs of imbalance. Dr. Francis shares that conventional lab tests often:
- Test hormone levels at the wrong time of month
- Miss key markers like cortisol, DHEA, and T3/T4 thyroid activity
- Ignore the interconnected nature of hormones, thyroid, and adrenal function
That's where functional medicine testing comes in—providing a more complete picture of your internal ecosystem.
Essential Lab Tests to Consider
Dr. Francis recommends the following tests as a baseline during Perimenopause and Menopause:
- Saliva or urine hormone panel: Measures estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol
- Thyroid panel: Includes TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies
- Adrenal function panel: Tests cortisol rhythms and DHEA levels
- Comprehensive metabolic panel and CBC: Checks liver, kidney, and blood function
- Vitamin & mineral status: Especially Vitamin D, B12, magnesium, and iron
These tests help uncover root causes behind symptoms like brain fog, weight gain, low libido, and anxiety.
Why You Need a Menopause Medical Team
Dr. Francis strongly encourages creating a collaborative care team that supports your health holistically. This may include:
- A primary care physician or OB-GYN
- A Naturopathic or Functional Medicine Doctor
- A Nutritionist or Herbalist
- A Mental health counselor or therapist
Each practitioner brings a piece of the puzzle, and together, they can help you address not just the symptoms, but the deeper imbalances driving them.
How to Advocate for Yourself
Navigating menopause care can be frustrating, especially if your symptoms are dismissed or misunderstood. Dr. Francis shares tips on how to advocate for better support:
- Bring a list of symptoms and track your cycle changes
- Ask for comprehensive lab testing (and get a second opinion if needed)
- Seek out practitioners who are trained in women’s hormones and midlife health
- Don’t settle for "it’s just your age"
You deserve care that validates your experience and helps you feel your best.
Takeaway: The Right Team + The Right Tests = Real Results
Your Menopause journey should not be a solo mission. With the right medical team and functional lab work, you can uncover the root causes of your symptoms and build a plan that supports your whole-body wellness.
🎥 Watch Episode 3 here
Stay tuned for Episode 4: Natural Menopause Remedies: Food, Lifestyle, and Supplements That Work.
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