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Menopause Q & A

What is menopause?

Menopause is a transition out of your childbearing years. It technically begins 12 months after you’ve had your last period, but many women begin to notice symptoms years earlier. The average age of menopause is 51, and most women enter the process between the ages of 45 and 55. 

It’s important to understand that menopause is a natural part of the aging process. It isn’t a disease, and it shouldn’t be a source of fear or anxiety. In fact, many women look forward to this time in their lives, and the obligations of family, career, and community often begin to decrease at this age.  

What are some signs I might be entering menopause?

Knowing what to look for can help you know when to seek treatment for menopause symptoms. Each woman has a unique experience of menopause, so you may find yourself only managing one or two symptoms, or you might go through a period where multiple symptoms occur at once. 

 

Some things to keep an eye out for include:

  • Hot flashes
  • Night sweats
  • Brain fog
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Low sex drive
  • Weight gain
  • Thinning skin
  • Irritation
  • Abnormal bleeding

Don’t accept these changes as an inevitable part of growing older. Meet with your OB/GYN to explore the possibilities.  

Are there treatments that can help manage the symptoms of menopause?

Most of the changes that take place during menopause occur as a result of declining estrogen production. That’s why hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is such a popular treatment option. This process delivers supplemental hormones to help restore a healthy hormonal balance and reduce symptoms. 

Many women find relief from menopause symptoms by making meaningful improvements to their lifestyles. If you’re carrying extra pounds, losing weight can help. Finding ways to incorporate more exercise into your daily planning is also beneficial. 

You might also explore treating specific issues as they arise. There are numerous treatments for vaginal dryness, mood swings, and sleep disruption. If you’d like more information on how to manage menopause with grace and ease, call the office today to schedule a visit, or book online in just a matter of moments.