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The Menopause Penalty

Apr 8, 2025

A groundbreaking Stanford University study, led by economist Dr. Petra Persson, has shed new light on a critical but often overlooked issue: the economic impact of menopause on working women.

“The economic losses for working women in menopause are substantial,” says Dr. Persson. “For decades, social scientists have analyzed the ‘motherhood penalty,’ but until now, we haven’t known what the financial consequences are for women at the other end of the reproductive spectrum, when they enter menopause.”

Key Findings:

  • Women who seek medical care for menopause symptoms experience an average 10% decline in earnings within four years—largely due to reduced working hours or leaving the workforce entirely.

  • The impact is most significant for women who work in smaller, private-sector companies.

  • Approximately 85% of women experience menopausal symptoms, which typically begin between ages 45 and 55 and can persist for a decade or more.

  • These symptoms—ranging from hot flashes and sleep disturbances to brain fog, mood changes, and fatigue—can significantly affect productivity and overall quality of life.

Why BHRT Matters:

This research underscores the urgent need for supportive healthcare options like Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). BHRT can:

  • Alleviate disruptive menopausal symptoms

  • Improve mental clarity, sleep, and energy

  • Support mood balance and libido

  • Help women remain active in their personal and professional lives

By restoring hormonal balance, BHRT not only improves health and well-being but also helps protect women from the long-term financial consequences of untreated menopause.

At Flow Wellness in Bend, we offer personalized BHRT plans guided by Dr. Shena Vander Ploeg, ND, a licensed naturopathic doctor who integrates holistic and conventional care. Her approach empowers women to take control of their health during this transitional stage of life—both in the exam room and in the workplace.

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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

 

The Flow Wellness Difference

IV Therapy | Peptide Therapy & Prescription Supplement | Medical Weight Loss | Hormone Replacement | Ketamine Therapy

Clinic locations in Bend, Oregon (Old Mill) & Seattle, Washington (South Lake Union). Telehealth in California, Oregon, & Washington

Medical Weight Loss

Our medical weight loss programs are designed to deliver safe, sustainable results. We combine prescription medications, nutritional guidance, lifestyle coaching, and ongoing medical monitoring to help you lose weight, improve metabolic health, and maintain your results long-term.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

We offer hormone optimization for men and women to address fatigue, mood changes, weight gain, and other symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Our bioidentical hormone replacement programs are personalized to restore optimal levels and support overall vitality.

Peptide Therapy & Prescription Supplements

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that play a vital role in cellular function and repair. At Flow Wellness, we offer personalized peptide protocols to support athletic performance, muscle recovery, and cognitive performance. Prescription supplements available for enhanced energy, hair & skin rejuvenation, and sexual health. All treatments are medically supervised for safety and results.

Ketamine Therapy for Mental Health

Flow Wellness provides IV & oral ketamine treatments in a safe, controlled, and supportive environment. This innovative treatment has shown promise for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health challenges—especially when traditional therapies have been ineffective. IV treatments available at our Bend, Oregon clinic.

IV Therapy in Bend, Oregon

Our customized IV infusions deliver rapid hydration and essential nutrients directly into your bloodstream for maximum absorption. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, recover from illness, enhance athletic performance, or simply feel more energized, our IV therapy options are designed to meet your specific needs.

Why patients love working with us:

  • Transparent pricing and no guesswork
  • Auto-pay and referral discounts
  • Fast shipping or in-clinic pickup
  • Friendly, experienced medical providers who really care

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