Menopause Specialist

What is menopause?

Menopause is not a single event but a transition out of your childbearing years. It’s a process that every woman beyond middle age will need to navigate. Though some women sail through this transition with ease, others experience painful or disruptive changes. 

Technically, menopause does not begin until at least 12 months have passed since your last period. That said, many women notice changes years earlier. Menopause most often starts between the ages of 45-55, but again, it can occur earlier or later.  

Although the changes that happen during menopause are often referred to as “symptoms,” it’s important to note that menopause is not a disease or any form of sickness; it’s simply part of the normal aging process. 

Regardless of when these changes begin to take place, it is important to address them with your physician to minimize the disruption to your daily life.

What are some of the signs I might be in menopause?

Knowing what to look for can help you determine if you need to come in for care. Some of the changes you may experience as you near or enter menopause include:

• Changes in your period, which might become heavier, longer, or irregular
• Hot flashes
• Mood swings
• Night sweats
• Weight gain
• Sleep disruption
• Cognitive issues (brain fog)
• Vaginal dryness
• Urinary incontinence

Most of these changes are directly related to declining hormone production. Some women only notice one or two of these issues, while others experience multiple changes that are incredibly disruptive to normal routines. 

How can I find relief from menopause symptoms?

Your treatment plan depends on your symptoms and treatment goals. No specific treatment is needed in some cases, and you can resolve some issues through diet, exercise, and enhanced sleep habits. 

However, in many cases, supplemental hormone therapy is the best way to relieve menopause symptoms. 

Hormone therapy isn’t suitable for everyone. Hormone replacement therapy is a highly individualized course of treatment. It can take trial and error to find the right blend of hormones to resolve your concerns. 

Effective non-hormonal options are also available.

If you would like to discuss the options for menopausal or peri-menopausal management in detail, please call Markidan Gynecology and Women’s Health today to schedule a visit.