What is menopause?
The definition of menopause is a cessation of bleeding for 12 consecutive months. This marks the end of your fertility.
When you’re in menopause, your body produces less estrogen and progesterone. This causes a number of symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, and increases your risk of developing chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease.
Women enter menopause at different ages. But in the United States, the average age of menopause is 52. You may begin the transition to menopause in your 40s. During this time, referred to as perimenopause, you may experience irregularity in your menstruation and some of the symptoms associated with menopause.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Common symptoms of menopause include:
- Hot flashes, night sweats
- Changes in mood
- Difficulty sleeping and fatigue
- Vaginal dryness or pain during intercourse
- Low sex drive
In addition to these symptoms, a decrease in your female hormones also affects bone health and increases your risk of osteoporosis.
What are my treatment options for menopause?
The team at Grapevine Women’s Health and Gynecology develops individualized treatment plans that help manage symptoms, improve health, and meet your specific health care needs. Common treatment options include:
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Herbal supplements
- Anti depressants
- Specific prescription medications
- Low-dose hormonal birth control
- Over-the-counter or prescription products to assist with vaginal dryness
As an advanced women’s care practice, the doctors also offer laser treatment MonaLisa Touch® to improve vaginal dryness, itching, painful intercourse, and mild urinary symptoms, all associated with a normal decline in estrogen around menopause.
Is hormone replacement therapy safe?
Depending on your personal and family history, hormone replacement therapy may be an appropriate form of treatment to help manage your menopausal symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy specifically treats symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep issues, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. If you have concerns about the use of prescription hormone replacement treatments, the team at Grapevine Women’s Health and Gynecology may recommend alternative treatments.
If your menopausal symptoms are affecting your quality of life, call the office or schedule an appointment online for an evaluation
