Women can feel comfortable in their own skin even through perimenopause. When it comes to women's health it can far too often be put on the backburner. There is historically a lack of education surrounding women and their bodies, and this is especially true for women going through perimenopause. The question of “Am I entering menopause or is my body just acting weird?” is ringing through the minds of women all across the country. However, innovative technology has adapted to give women the opportunity to use at-home tests to know what their bodies are going through. No longer do women have to feel uncomfortable in a doctor's office to see if they are perimenopausal, because at-home tests are providing a level of comfort and privacy that women are seeking. Women have the ability to understand their bodies on their own terms.
At-home testing is coming at the perfect time, because studies show that around 1.5 million women enter perimenopause each year in the United States. This means that women are either trying to get into their doctor's office for an appointment or are doing their own research to understand what perimenopause means and how this will impact their bodies. This often takes a lot of time, energy, and potentially some out of pocket costs. That's why at-home testing is helping women get answers from the comfort of their own homes. Instead of waiting weeks or possibly even months to know whether or not their bodies are perimenopausal, women can get answers more efficiently.
“Everyday, women are becoming more and more proactive regarding their health. They are seeking to properly grasp an understanding of their body and the transitions it undergoes. At-home testing places the power back in women's hands. The tests offer a convenient, accessible, and cost-efficient alternative to medical appointments. More importantly, by allowing women to comprehend and explore their menopausal journey, these tests grant women the privacy and control they desire,” says Proov CEO Amy Beckley.
Perimenopause can be a very vulnerable time for women. Chances are they are experiencing uncomfortable and annoying symptoms, and they may just not feel like themselves. Women's health in general can be difficult for women to talk about, and the same goes for menopause. At-home testing not only gives women answers about their hormone levels, but it gives them a sense of privacy and comfort that they might need during this time of their lives.
There is also a lot of stigma surrounding women's health. Women's health topics are often seen as taboo and controversial to talk about, leaving women's health on the backburner. Because of this narrative, at-home tests give women the power and understanding over their bodies. When women test for perimenopause it not only shows them their hormone levels, but it can act as a guide to symptom management. At-home testing is a way for women to take control over perimenopause, not the other way around.
“It is important to mention that the transition to at-home testing also indicates that there is an availability of reliable at-home products for women to use. Providing women with the necessary tools to manage menopause is vital. Yes, medical treatment is necessary but it can be safely coupled with at-home management options. Menopause is not a one-size fits all condition, it is convoluted and every woman has a unique experience. At-home testing gives women the security they need in the comfort of their own space,” Beckley says.
Tackling menopause can be a daunting task for many women. Because there is often a lack of education, women may not know where to even start. At-home testing can help guide women to understanding their bodies, and then help them get on the right track towards symptom management. These tests provide a level of privacy that many women are looking for, and empowers them to take perimenopause head on. Perimenopause can be uncomfortable, but at-home testing doesn't have to be, it can actually be the key for women to be in tune with their body and mind.
