Menopause is a normal period of transition for women in their 40s or 50s. It occurs when the ovaries stop releasing eggs and estrogen levels drop. Along with the ceasing of menstruation, menopause can also cause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, vaginal dryness, and thinning hair. Menopause is preceded by perimenopause. Perimenopause can last many years before menopause and is characterized by menopausal symptoms and irregular periods. Although menopause is a natural part of aging, your gynecologist can help you navigate the various changes that come with menopause.
Did You Know?
Menopause is most likely to occur between the ages of 40 and 60, and the average age of menopause is 51. Menopause is defined as the absence of menses for 1 calendar year.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I going through menopause?
It can be hard to know exactly when menopause starts, however menopause is generally said to have occurred when it has been a year since a woman’s last menstrual period without pregnancy or illness. In the years leading up to menopause, some women may experience perimenopause, which can cause irregular periods and menopausal symptoms. If you are experiencing perimenopausal symptoms such as changes in your menstrual cycles, sleep problems, weight gain, changes to your sexual health, or other symptoms, then you could be heading towards menopause. To determine if your symptoms are associated with menopause, schedule an appointment with our gynecologists at Bucks County Women’s Wellness today.
What should I expect from my gynecologist at Bucks County Women’s Wellness when I enter menopause?
For starters, your gynecologist will first determine if your symptoms are related to perimenopause or menopause. She will then discuss what you should expect in the next few months and years, and answer any questions you may have. In some cases, your provider may also make recommendations to alleviate symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause.
Is there any way to alleviate symptoms of menopause?
Yes! There are many ways to alleviate symptoms of menopause, depending on the type of symptom. These include supplements and medications. One of the medical treatment options used to alleviate menopause symptoms is hormone replacement therapy, which supplements hormones as a way to decrease symptoms. However, hormone replacement therapy is not right for everyone and you will need to discuss its risks and benefits with your gynecologist to determine if this is an ideal treatment for you.
