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Read MoreMenopause is a natural shift that doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Our experienced OB/GYN specialists can guide you through this transition with understanding and personalized care, helping you embrace change and live life to the fullest.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is part of a natural aging process that marks the end of your menstrual cycles and fertility. It’s part of a journey with three distinct stages: perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause.
Perimenopause
is the transitional period leading up to menopause, typically starting in your 40s but sometimes occurring as early as your late 30s. During this time, your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate menstruation and fertility. This hormonal shift can cause irregular menstrual cycles, with periods becoming shorter or longer, lighter or heavier.
Menopause
is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. This stage signifies the permanent end of menstruation and fertility. The ovaries no longer release eggs, and estrogen and progesterone levels remain consistently low. As a result, your menstrual periods cease. The average age of menopause in the United States is 51 years, but it can happen earlier or later.
Postmenopause
is the stage following menopause, lasting for the rest of your life. During postmenopause, your hormones stabilize at low levels, and while some menopausal symptoms may ease, others, like vaginal dryness or increased risk of osteoporosis, may persist.
What are the Symptoms of Menopause?
Menopause causes a variety of symptoms that can vary in intensity and duration. Symptoms may include:
- Hot flashes
- Irregular periods
- Joint pain
- Mood changes
- Night sweats
- Sleep problems
- Vaginal dryness
- Weight gain and slowed metabolism
- Dry skin and changes in skin elasticity
- Hair thinning or changes in hair texture
- Difficulty concentrating and memory lapses
If you experience these symptoms, talk to your doctor to determine the best approach to managing menopause and maintaining your overall health and well-being.
How is Menopause Diagnosed?
Diagnosing menopause involves reviewing your symptoms and medical history and confirming you have not had a menstrual period for at least 12 consecutive months. Your doctor may also conduct a physical examination and order blood tests to measure hormone levels, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen levels, which fluctuate during perimenopause and decline during menopause. These tests help confirm the hormonal changes associated with menopause and rule out other possible causes of irregular periods or similar symptoms.
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Menopause Treatment Options
Lifestyle Changes
Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep can help you effectively manage menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings and support your overall health during this phase of life.
Non-Hormonal Therapies
Non-hormonal treatment options include antidepressant medications to manage hot flashes and mood swings; gabapentin, an anticonvulsant therapy that can help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes; and vaginal moisturizers and lubricants to help alleviate dryness.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
HRT involves taking estrogen alone or with progesterone to relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Our Approach to Menopause Treatment
At Inspira, we understand that menopause is a significant life transition that can affect each individual differently. We believe in shared decision-making, where you are actively involved in choosing the treatment approach that aligns with your preferences and goals. Together, we can create a personalized plan that supports your health and well-being during this transformative time.
Beyond comprehensive treatment options, we provide ongoing support and education throughout your menopausal journey. We are here to answer your questions, address any concerns and offer guidance to help you navigate this phase of life.
