The Late Late Aesthetics Show, hosted by Vanessa Lana Brown (owner of VL Aesthetics in Carlisle), delivers expert insights and engaging discussions on all things skincare, aesthetics, and wellbeing.
Video Summary
Welcome to an insightful conversation with Dr. Sohère Roked, a GP turned hormone specialist and integrative medicine doctor, who has made it her mission to help women reclaim control of their hormones, health, and happiness. From her practices in London and Harley Street, Dr. Roked blends conventional medical science with holistic practices to tackle fatigue, perimenopause, mood swings, and more—unlocking wellness from the inside out.
In this in-depth feature, we explore everything from bioidentical hormone therapy to burnout, beauty, and aging. If you’ve ever felt “not quite right” but couldn’t put your finger on why, this is a must-watch.
What Is Perimenopause—and Are You In It?
Perimenopause is a term more women are aware of, yet few truly understand. According to Dr. Roked, it’s the transitional phase before menopause, where periods may still occur but begin to change in frequency, intensity, or symptom impact.
“Perimenopause is when you’re still having periods, but something has shifted,” she explains. “Your cycle may become shorter, your bleeding pattern might change, and your mood, energy, or sleep could fluctuate more dramatically.”
Dr. Roked recommends tracking your cycle beyond just the dates of bleeding—monitor how you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally throughout. With today’s apps or simple journaling, it’s easier than ever to spot hormone-related patterns.
From GP to Hormone Specialist: Dr. Roked’s Journey
Frustrated with the limitations of conventional general practice, where time per patient was minimal and treatment options often boiled down to “there’s nothing on your blood work, so you must be fine,” Dr. Roked transitioned into integrative medicine.
With a background in psychiatry, she knew there was more to health than prescriptions. Integrative medicine allowed her to consider the mind-body-soul connection—and once she discovered the power of hormone therapy, everything clicked.
What to Expect When You Say, “I Don’t Feel Right”
One of the most common phrases Dr. Roked hears is: “I just don’t feel like myself.”
This triggers a deeper exploration. Is it sleep? Mood? Energy? Focus? Confidence? Libido? Or all of the above?
She emphasizes that testing is crucial—but only part of the story. “We always go back to how the person actually feels,” she says. Lab results are informative, but not definitive. “Your levels might look fine, but if you still feel off, then we haven’t reached the root cause yet.”
Bioidentical Hormones vs. HRT: What’s the Difference?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is an umbrella term. Underneath that are body-identical and bioidentical hormones, both of which Dr. Roked works with.
- Body-identical hormones are pharmaceutical-grade and have the same chemical structure as the body’s natural hormones. These are often available via the NHS.
- Bioidentical hormones are custom-compounded, tailored to individual needs, and often used when conventional routes aren’t effective.
Because these hormones are chemically matched to what your body naturally produces, they’re metabolized more effectively, which often results in fewer side effects and better outcomes.
How Long Until You Feel a Difference?
For those using hormone therapy:
- Menopausal patients often feel improvements within 2–4 weeks.
- For cyclical treatments, it may take 2–3 full cycles to assess impact.
- Full benefits may take 8–10 weeks.
But as Dr. Roked points out, lifestyle changes amplify the effects of hormone therapy. Nutrition, stress management, and exercise all work synergistically.
Burnout, Cortisol, and Modern Stress Epidemics
Low energy and mood swings are often chalked up to “normal life,” but Dr. Roked urges patients to look deeper.
Cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, plays a key role. Too much or too little can interfere with your body’s ability to regulate other hormones, leading to imbalances that feel like burnout, anxiety, or chronic fatigue.
How to Lower Cortisol Naturally
- Supplements like ashwagandha, vitamin C, B vitamins, and magnesium
- Prioritizing “NET Time” (No Extra Time) habits—e.g., listening to calming music during your commute
- Breathwork, journaling, or short meditative moments
- Avoiding over-scheduling and unrealistic expectations
Testing, Testing—But What’s Right for You?
There are several testing options to assess hormone and nutrient levels:
- Blood tests: Useful for assessing vitamin D, thyroid, iron, and hormone levels (ideally done around day 21 of your cycle).
- Dutch Test: A comprehensive dried urine test for hormones, cortisol rhythms, and even neurotransmitter precursors.
- Nutrient tests: Urine-based panels for vitamins and minerals
- Gut tests: Breath or stool tests to assess microbiome health
Dr. Roked emphasizes the value of contextual testing—you’re not just checking if hormones exist, but if they’re in balance and being metabolized correctly.
Mindset, Manifestation, and the Missing Piece of Health
Dr. Roked is a strong advocate of mental wellness and energy psychology. With a background in psychiatry and neurolinguistic programming (NLP), she understands that mindset is as important as medication.
She recommends starting with a “nourishment list” with simple actions for body, mind, and soul:
- A walk in nature
- A meaningful conversation
- 10 minutes of music or meditation
- A warm cup of tea at bedtime
These micro-habits restore a sense of control and well-being—even in overwhelming times.
Aging, Skin, and Hormones: What’s the Connection?
Estrogen plays a direct role in collagen production. As levels decline in perimenopause and menopause, skin elasticity and radiance can fade. That’s why addressing hormones isn’t just about internal balance—it’s also about external confidence.
When paired with aesthetic treatments like skin boosters or injectables, hormone optimization can enhance results and support longer-lasting effects.
Embracing, Not Fighting, the Aging Process
Dr. Roked challenges the term “anti-aging,” advocating instead for “aging well.”
“Traditionally, women entering menopause were considered to be entering their wise woman era—a respected and revered time,” she notes. “Now, we’re conditioned to fear it.”
She reminds women that vitality, beauty, and wisdom can coexist. Hormones and modern wellness tools allow us to feel better longer—without fighting the inevitable.
Final Takeaways: Be the Expert on Yourself
Dr. Roked’s closing advice is simple but powerful:
“Start tracking what’s going on for you. Be the expert on your body.”
From hormone balance to mental wellness, it all begins with awareness. Understanding your cycles, energy levels, emotional patterns, and stress triggers is the foundation for informed, empowered choices.
Connect With Dr. Sohère Roked
- Instagram: drsohere_hormonesandhealth
- Website: www.drsohereroked.co.uk
