#050 Dr Sarah Ball - Perimenopause Explained: Symptoms, HRT & The “Window of Opportunity”
Dr Sarah Ball is a UK-based GP and specialist in menopause and midlife women’s health, known for her compassionate and evidence-based approach to hormone care. She trained at Birmingham University (MBChB) and completed postgraduate training in General Practice, earning diplomas in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Family Planning, and practical contraceptive techniques. Over many years in clinical practice, Dr Ball developed a deep interest in women’s health, particularly the complex changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause.
Today, she provides personalised menopause care through Health in Menopause, offering tailored HRT and hormone optimisation strategies while helping women make sense of medical evidence in a way that feels relevant to their individual lives. She has a particular passion for supporting women who have been told HRT isn’t suitable for them, helping them thrive in their health, careers, and relationships.
Dr Ball also contributes to broader awareness through media appearances and educational discussions alongside other menopause experts. Outside her clinical work, she enjoys running, including completing the London Marathon, and is a strong advocate for normalising conversations around midlife health.
> During our discussion, you’ll discover:
(00:04:45) What is menopause
(00:13:11) Is modern life causing women to start menopause earlier
(00:19:33) The Women’s Health Initiative
(00:30:11) Is there a point at which it’s too late for women to start HRT
(00:36:10) Should women try to fix lifestyle factors before starting HRT
(00:42:10) Can thyroid issues be mistaken for a need for HRT
(00:47:40) Should women do health tests immediately upon starting HRT or wait for symptoms
(00:51:52) What genes does Dr Ball look at with DNA testing
(00:53:21) The use of testosterone in HRT for women
(01:05:08) DHEA for women’s HRT
(01:08:35) How to control the conversion of testosterone into DHT in women
(01:12:31) One lab test every woman on HRT should consider getting
(01:13:06) The biggest misconception about the use of testosterone for women
(01:13:28) Does HRT need to be titrated down with age
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Research Links:
* Menopause Research and Education Fund: Mind Your Menopause Marathon [https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/sarah-ball]
* Health in Menopause, Menopause Experts, Call or Book Today [https://healthinmenopause.co.uk/]
* Dr Sarah Ball | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/drsarahmollyball]
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