estrogen - Antigravity Wellness

Breast Tenderness on Estradiol? Here’s What You Need to Know

Many women feel hopeful when they begin estradiol therapy—finally getting relief from hot flashes, brain fog, insomnia, and emotional rollercoasters. But a common and unexpected symptom can appear within the first few weeks: breast tenderness. While it can be uncomfortable or even concerning, breast soreness during hormone therapy is usually temporary and manageable. Let’s explore […]

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Postmenopausal Spotting After Starting Estrogen Therapy: What You Need to Know

Educational, Estrogen / Nicole Smith

Starting Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT)—also called Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)—can be life-changing. Many women experience relief from hot flashes, brain fog, joint pain, insomnia, and even mood shifts. But what happens when you start estrogen therapy and suddenly experience spotting or bleeding? For many women, especially those well past menopause, this can be a terrifying

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Is Pellet Therapy Right for You? What You Need to Know

Educational, Estrogen, Testosterone / Nicole Smith

Pellet hormone therapy has become increasingly popular as a form of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), offering a convenient, long-acting option for managing symptoms of perimenopause, menopause, and other hormone-related conditions. Tiny hormone pellets—usually containing estrogen, testosterone, or a combination—are inserted under the skin and slowly release hormones over several months. For some individuals, pellet

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Visceral Fat vs. Subcutaneous Fat: What the Research Really Says—And How We Can Help You Target It

Belly Fat & Body Composition, Educational, Fitness for Menopause, Fitness for Perimenopause / Nicole Smith

You’ve likely encountered claims on social media suggesting that visceral fat is harder to lose due to hormonal influences. However, current research provides a more nuanced understanding of fat loss dynamics. Understanding Visceral and Subcutaneous Fat ______________________________________________________________________ What Does the Research Say? Contrary to popular belief, visceral fat may be more responsive to weight loss

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Varicose Veins in Perimenopause: Why They Happen, What Makes Them Worse, and How to Find Relief

Cardiovascular & Peripheral Vascular Health - Heart+, Educational / Nicole Smith

Let’s talk about something many women in perimenopause deal with… but few talk about openly: Varicose veins. They’re not just a cosmetic issue. For many of us—including myself—they’re painful, frustrating, and tied to deeper systemic changes in the body. You may have been told they’re just about “getting older” or standing too much. But the

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Why You’re So Tired: Hidden Causes of Fatigue in Perimenopause

Adrenals & Cortisol, Educational, Fatigue, Insomnia & Sleep Problems, Thyroid / Nicole Smith

Do you wake up tired… and stay that way all day?Do you feel like you’re dragging yourself through work, errands, and family life—even if you got a “full night” of sleep?You’re not alone—and you’re not crazy. At Antigravity Wellness, we hear it all the time: “I used to be so energetic. Now I need coffee

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Still Struggling with Hot Flashes? Non-Hormonal Options to Help You Sleep, Cool Down, and Feel Like Yourself Again

Educational, Estrogen, Vasomotor Symptoms - Hot Flashes / Nicole Smith

You’ve woken up drenched in sweat… again.Your sheets are soaked. Your brain feels foggy. Your patience is gone. And you haven’t had a good night’s sleep in weeks. If you’re deep in perimenopause or menopause, you know the misery of hot flashes and night sweats all too well.And even if you’re already on hormone therapy,

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How to Talk to Your Doctor About Perimenopause: An Empowering Guide to Advocate for Yourself and Get the Help You Deserve

Educational, Self-Advocacy & Education / Nicole Smith

You’re not imagining it.You’re not “just stressed.”You’re not too young.And you’re definitely not alone. If you’re a woman in your late 30s to late 40s and starting to feel… off—emotionally, physically, or hormonally—it could be perimenopause. But sadly, many women who gather the courage to bring it up to their doctors are told things like:

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“Why Are My Cholesterol Levels Suddenly High?” What Women in Their 40s Need to Know Before Starting a Statin

Cardiovascular & Peripheral Vascular Health - Heart+, Educational / Nicole Smith

You just got your annual labs back.Your doctor tells you that your cholesterol is high—maybe for the first time in your life. You’re confused. You haven’t changed your diet. You’re still working out. Nothing seems different. And now they’re recommending a statin medication to lower your cholesterol. But something inside you says:“Wait—what’s actually going on

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Should You Try Berberine for Hormone and Metabolic Health? Here’s What This Ancient Herb Can Do for Blood Sugar, Gut Health, and More

Blood Glucose Regulation, Educational, Supplements / Nicole Smith

When it comes to holistic hormone health, blood sugar is one of the most overlooked pieces of the puzzle.Too much insulin, poor glucose control, and inflammation can: That’s why at Antigravity Wellness, one of our most frequently used herbal tools—especially for women in perimenopause and early menopause—is Berberine. Let’s talk about what it is, how

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