94. Millennial Menopause: Early Perimenopause, Mental Health, Hormone Therapy Myths & Workplace Impact with Lauren Tetenbaum

In this episode of Women Mastering Midlife , Victoria Byrd sits down with menopause educator, therapist, and author Lauren Tetenbaum to talk about a conversation many millennial women are not prepared for: perimenopause in your 30s and early 40s. Lauren, author of Millennial Menopause , shares why so many women are being dismissed, misdiagnosed, or told they are “too young” for hormonal symptoms, and why that narrative must change. Together, Victoria and Lauren explore: Why perimenopause can begin in your mid-to-late 30s The mental health impact of hormonal fluctuations, including anxiety, irritability, and the “3 a.m. doom drops” Why mood symptoms often appear before cycle changes The cultural reluctance millennials have around embracing “midlife” How menopause affects women in the workplace and contributes to lost income and stalled careers The myths surrounding hormone therapy and breast cancer risk Alcohol and breast cancer risk versus estrogen risk The testosterone double standard in women’s healthcare Pellet therapy, med spas, and how to make informed treatment decisions Fertility grief and identity shifts during the menopause transition Why education for providers, pharmacists, and mental health professionals must improve Lauren explains that perimenopause is often more complex than menopause itself, especially when it comes to mood disorders and misdiagnosis. Many women are prescribed antidepressants or sleeping pills without discussion of hormonal drivers. While SSRIs can be helpful tools, they should not be the only option offered. Lauren shares practical first steps for women who suspect they are in perimenopause: Track symptoms Practice self-compassion Seek a provider who understands menopause guidelines Consider individualized care rather than relying solely on social media advice If you are a millennial woman feeling “off,” experiencing unexplained anxiety, irritability, sleep disruption, or simply not recognizing yourself anymore, this conversation offers validation, clarity, and direction. You are not too young. You are not dramatic. And you are not alone. About Lauren Tetenbaum: Lauren Tetenbaum is a therapist, menopause educator, advocate, and author of Millennial Menopause . Her work focuses on educating younger women about perimenopause, breaking down hormone therapy myths, and empowering women with accessible, research-informed knowledge. Learn more and find her book at: Millenial Menopause Book Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecounselaur/ Let’s Keep the Conversation Going: If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe to Women Mastering Midlife on your favorite podcast platform to receive weekly conversations that help you navigate perimenopause, menopause, and midlife health with clarity and confidence. Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community and let’s grow stronger together. Get your FREE guides HERE: www.womenmasteringmidlife.com/free-guides Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together! </p