Menopause Specialist

How do I know when I am in menopause?

Typically, changes in your menstrual cycle begin in your 40s when estrogen production begins to slow down. This is known as perimenopause. You may have an irregular cycle, more prolonged periods, and other symptoms during this time.

When you have not had a period for 12 consecutive months, you have officially entered menopause. Usually, natural menopause occurs in the late 40s to mid-50s, but it can also happen much earlier. If you have your ovaries surgically removed, you immediately enter menopause.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Reduced estrogen levels during menopause are thought to be the cause of most menopause symptoms. Symptoms may begin during perimenopause and continue for several years, and they can be mild, moderate, or severe. 

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes 
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Vaginal atrophy
• Low sex drive
• Painful intercourse
• Frequent need to urinate
• Urinary incontinence
• Insomnia
• Mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating

Menopause itself is not an illness, but it does increase your risk for some health conditions, such as osteoporosis, heart attack, and stroke.

How are menopause symptoms treated?

Mild to moderate symptoms may not require medical management, but if you have severe symptoms or your symptoms are interfering with your daily life and relationships, you may wish to consider medical menopause management. 

The compassionate providers at the Center for Women’s Health have extensive experience designing customized plans to manage your menopause symptoms. 

Treatment options for menopause symptoms include:

• Vaginal lubricants
• Hormone therapy
• BioTE® bioidentical hormone pellet therapy
• Antidepressants and other medications

Your caring provider works with you to find the right combination of treatments and dosages to address your symptoms so you can feel like yourself again. 

If you are considering hormone therapy, your doctor provides information about all the risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision about hormone treatment.

Is hormone therapy right for me?

Only you and your physician can determine if hormone replacement therapy is the best option to address your menopause symptoms. During your consultation, your provider will ask you about your personal and family health history, your lifestyle, and other individual factors that help determine whether hormone replacement therapy is an appropriate treatment. 

You should tell your physician about any medications or herbal supplements you are currently taking. If you have questions or concerns, discuss them with your provider before you make a decision about beginning hormone replacement therapy.

To find relief from debilitating menopause symptoms, call the Center for Women's Health, or use the online scheduler to make an appointment at the clinic nearest you today.