The Menopause Marathon: Why Slower, Smarter Care Works Better
- Meryl Kahan
- Dec 15, 2025
- 2 min read

Menopause Isn’t a Sprint
When it comes to menopause, many women are understandably looking for fast relief. Hot flashes, poor sleep, weight changes, mood shifts, and low libido can feel urgent and disruptive. But menopause is not something that can or should be “fixed” overnight.
I often describe menopause as a marathon rather than a sprint. Hormones change over time, symptoms evolve, and multiple systems in the body are affected. The goal is not quick fixes, but a thoughtful, sustainable approach that supports your health both now and long term.
Why Quick Fixes Often Miss the Mark
There is no shortage of one-size-fits-all menopause solutions being marketed today. While tempting, these approaches often fall short because menopause does not look the same for every woman.
Symptoms can vary widely. What helps one woman may worsen symptoms in another. Hormonal changes affect more than hot flashes alone. Bone health, brain health, metabolism, mood, sleep, and sexual health are all interconnected.
When care focuses only on chasing individual symptoms, it is easy to miss the bigger picture of whole-body health.
How I Approach Menopause Care
Menopause care works best when it is intentional and paced. Rather than doing everything at once, I take a step-by-step approach that prioritizes precision.
That typically includes:
A comprehensive assessment, with a detailed medical history and targeted lab work when appropriate
Prioritizing what matters most to you, so the symptoms affecting daily life are addressed first
Personalized treatment, which may include hormone therapy, lifestyle guidance, sleep optimization, or stress support, selected and dosed based on your individual needs
Layering care over time, allowing your body to adjust before adding or refining treatments
This approach allows menopause care to be built thoughtfully rather than rushed.
Building Your Menopause Toolkit
Just like training for a marathon, success comes from preparation and pacing. Over time, your menopause toolkit may include:
Hormone therapy with careful dosing and ongoing monitoring
Nutrition strategies that support metabolism, energy, and weight
Bone health support, including strength training and supplementation when needed
Sleep and stress practices that restore resilience
Sexual wellness options that support comfort and intimacy
Not every woman needs every tool. The goal is to create a plan that fits your body and your life.
Why a Slower Approach Leads to Better Results
Menopause optimization is rarely about a single prescription. When changes are layered carefully, it allows the body time to adapt and reduces unnecessary side effects.
A thoughtful approach helps:
Minimize trial-and-error treatment
Build stability rather than short-term relief
Support long-term health and quality of life
This is not just about managing symptoms. It is about supporting vitality, confidence, and overall well-being through midlife and beyond.
You Are Not Meant to Navigate This Alone
Menopause can feel overwhelming, especially when symptoms are dismissed or solutions do not quite fit. With the right guidance, this stage of life can become one of clarity, strength, and renewed control over your health.
If this approach resonates and you are looking for thoughtful, personalized menopause care, I am here to help.



