Menopause Specialist

What is menopause?

Menopause is defined as the absence of a menstrual period for at least 12 months. It’s caused by a decline in estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. This typically happens as you approach your late 30s. 

In your 40s, your menstrual periods may change, becoming longer or shorter, lighter or heavier, and more or less frequent until eventually, your ovaries stop releasing eggs, and you have no more periods.

During menopause, estrogen levels decline, and your risk of cardiovascular diseases increases. It’s important to see your doctor regularly so they can check your cholesterol and blood pressure and make sure your heart is healthy. It’s also common to lose bone density, putting you at an increased risk of osteoporosis. 

What are the symptoms of menopause?

The months and years leading up to menopause, also called perimenopause, can produce some uncomfortable signs and symptoms. These may include:

• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Chills
• Night sweats
• Trouble sleeping
• Mood changes
• Weight gain
• Thinning hair
• Dry skin
• Loss of breast fullness

The most common symptom you’ll experience is irregular periods leading up to the time they stop completely. During this time, pregnancy is possible, so be sure to take a pregnancy test if you are unsure of your symptoms.

What are treatments for menopause?

Treatment for menopause often focuses on relieving signs and symptoms and preventing chronic conditions that can occur due to aging. Some treatments for menopause include:

Hormone replacement therapy

The use of estrogen therapy is the most effective form of treatment for hot flashes. Estrogen also helps with bone loss. However, it is also associated with some cardiovascular and breast cancer risks. It’s recommended to take estrogen at the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time. 

Bioidentical hormones

These hormones are artificial and considered similar to the hormones produced by the human body. The goal of bioidentical hormone therapy is to replace the hormones that have been lost as a result of menopause. Bioidentical hormones can be given in the form of pills, patches, creams, gels, or shots.

Vaginal estrogen

Estrogen delivered through a cream, tablet, or ring can help with vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse. This type of treatment delivers only a small amount of estrogen that is absorbed by the vaginal tissues.

If you’d like to learn more about treatments for menopause, call our office today or schedule an appointment online with one of our experienced providers.