What are the symptoms of menopause?
Menopause generally occurs around your early 50s, although for some women, it can begin in their 40s. As you approach menopause, a stage known as perimenopause, you may start noticing that your periods are becoming irregular. They may be longer, shorter, or even heavier, or you could skip your periods altogether.
In any case, menopause occurs when you go a full 12 months with no menstrual period. During both perimenopause and menopause, you may experience:
- Uncontrollable mood swings
- Unplanned weight gain
- Loss of breast fullness
- Pain during intercourse
- Vaginal dryness
- Thinning hair
- Night sweats
You may also find that you have a hard time getting a good night’s sleep and that you can’t fall or stay asleep. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to visit with your OB/GYN.
When should I see an OB/GYN for menopause?
Ideally, you have an annual well-woman exam, so your dedicated OB/GYN can track any menopause-related changes as they occur. It’s especially important to schedule a menopause exam at All About Women OB/GYN if:
- You’re gaining weight
- You’ve gone at least 12 months with no period
- Your symptoms are starting to lower your quality of life
It’s not only menopause symptoms you need to worry about either. The drop in estrogen that occurs with menopause can also lead to brittle bones, a condition known as osteoporosis.
How is menopause treated?
Your menopause treatment plan from All About Women OB/GYN is designed to manage any symptoms you currently have while preventing further issues. Treating menopause can involve:
- Stabilizing your hormone levels with hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Low-dose antidepressants, which are helpful for decreasing hot flashes
- Vitamin D supplements
- Vaginal estrogen
Your dedicated physician at All About Women OB/GYN can also talk with you about lifestyle changes you can make to relieve menopause-related symptoms. For example, getting more physical activity, improving your diet, and taking time to meditate are all little daily things you can do to help with menopause.
Click on the online booking feature to schedule your menopause evaluation at All About Women OB/GYN today. You can also call to speak with a team member.
