Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD 101. Dr. Mariza Snyder: Why 80% of Perimenopause Symptoms Are Brain Related and Doctors Keep Missing It
Oct 7, 2025
Dr. Mariza Snyder, a hormone and metabolic health expert, dives into the often-misunderstood realm of perimenopause. She reveals that 80% of perimenopause symptoms stem from brain issues, leading to significant misdiagnosis. Dr. Mariza discusses the importance of preventative hormone replacement therapy and tracking biomarkers from age 35. She shares practical steps for managing symptoms and emphasizes women's empowerment in advocating for their health, all while making the case for why this critical transition shouldn’t be suffered through.
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Most Symptoms Originate In The Brain
- About 80% of perimenopause symptoms are brain-related, including brain fog, sleep issues, and mood changes.
- Erratic hormone decline triggers these central symptoms and is often missed by clinicians.
Perimenopause Is A Silent Continuum
- Perimenopause is a continuum called the "silent shift" that begins years before missed periods.
- Metabolic and cardiovascular markers creep up subtly during this transition without obvious symptoms.
Physician Patient Dismissed Despite Severe Symptoms
- Dr. Snyder shared a story of a 30-year physician who struggled with disabling brain symptoms in late perimenopause and faced dismissal.
- The doctor had to advocate strongly to find a practitioner willing to prescribe hormones.
