Menopause

What happens during menopause?

For women in the United States, the average age of menopause — the transition that marks the end of your menstrual cycles — is 51. But, you can begin this natural biological process in your 40s. For some women, the transitional period known as perimenopause can take several years.

During this time, your body begins producing less of the hormones you needed during childbearing years. After menopause, the effects of having less estrogen and progesterone can lead to unpleasant symptoms. For some women, menopause greatly affects the quality of their lives, including intimacy.

What are the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause?

Every woman is different, and perimenopause and menopause affect each person individually. For some, symptoms appear suddenly and are quite noticeable, though for others, you may just think it’s your typical experience of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Common perimenopause and menopause symptoms often include:

• Irregular intervals between periods
• Hot flashes or night sweats
• Heavier or lighter periods
• Sleep problems
• Mood swings and irritability
• Vaginal dryness and painful sex
• Lower libido
• Lower bone density
• Higher cholesterol levels
• Weight gain
• Depression
• Dry skin
• Tender breasts
• Headaches
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Stiff joints
• Thinning hair

Your symptoms may come and go and cause mild discomfort or disruption in your life, or they may interfere more seriously. Hormone management can help you cope with and reduce the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.

What is hormone management?

Hormone management refers to methods that help you effectively compensate for lower estrogen and progesterone levels. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common method of regulating hormones for menopausal women. HRT replaces natural hormones with medically manufactured hormones, some of which are derived from plants.

Estrogen therapy is one of the most effective treatments for relieving hot flashes, and it also prevents bone loss. Hormones are available as:

• Oral medications
• Skin patches
• Vaginal creams or inserts
• Subcutaneous pellets

Your doctor works with you to determine if hormone therapy is right for you. Additionally, the team at OB/GYN Specialists works with you to help manage menopausal symptoms through lifestyle changes such as getting more exercise, managing your weight, or natural supplements and vitamins.

To learn more about menopause and how to manage symptoms for a healthy, happy quality of life during this transition, call the office for an appointment, or book online.