Menopause

What is menopause?

Menopause is a new stage in every woman’s life that marks the end of her ability to bear children. It starts when your ovaries slow down the production of estrogen and progesterone (the hormones that regulate reproduction) and then stop releasing eggs.

Menopause occurs when you haven’t had any periods for twelve months. Up until this time, you could still get pregnant, so you should continue using birth control.

Menopause typically occurs at around 51, but many women experience symptoms for several years on either side. It can take five years or more to complete the process, significantly impacting quality of life.

What symptoms does menopause cause?

Menopause symptoms begin when your estrogen and progesterone levels start to fall, gradually worsening and then improving again once you reach menopause. The time beforehand (perimenopause) is when your symptoms are likely to be worst.

The first sign of perimenopause is often a change in your menstrual cycle. Your periods might become irregular, happening every five weeks or three weeks instead of monthly. As menopause progresses, your periods gradually become less frequent and then stop altogether.

Other menopause symptoms include:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Problems sleeping
• Vaginal dryness
• Painful intercourse
• Depression
• Difficulties concentrating
• Mood swings
• Memory problems

Some women experience few or no menopause symptoms, and others have ones they can manage with self-care. But menopause can cause serious disruption to a significant number of women’s lives.

What treatments help with menopause?

Estrogen and progesterone hormone replacement therapies (HRT) are among the most effective treatments for menopause symptoms. Your Mira Women’s Health & Midwifery provider does a physical exam and medical history review to ensure the treatment is safe for you.

Other medications, including antidepressants and anti-seizure drugs, can also ease menopause symptoms. Topical estrogen creams relieve vaginal dryness, and lubricants reduce the friction that causes painful intercourse.

Your provider can help you make lifestyle changes that improve your overall well-being. Eating a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and finding ways to manage stress can all help with menopause symptoms.

Falling estrogen levels also reduce bone density and could lead to osteoporosis, which causes bones to break very easily. Your provider might recommend a bone density scan and prescribe vitamin D and calcium supplements to improve bone health.

To find out how the Mira Women’s Health & Midwifery team can help you manage menopause, call the office or book an appointment online today.