Menopause Specialist

What is menopause?

Menopause is the life stage in a woman’s life that marks the end of her fertility. Women reach menopause after going 12 months in a row without a period.

Menopause occurs when your ovaries slow down the production of estrogen and progesterone. These sex hormones control your menstrual cycle, fertility, and sexual health. They also play a role in maintaining bone health and keeping cholesterol levels under control.

With decreasing levels of estrogen and progesterone, you’re at a greater risk of developing health problems like high cholesterol, heart disease, and osteoporosis. 

Though menopause has a start date, your hormone levels may start to decrease and fluctuate years or months before you hit menopause. 

When does the transition to menopause start?

Most women start the transition to menopause in their mid to late 40s. However, some women may start in their late 30s or early 40s. The transition to menopause is known as perimenopause and usually lasts about four years.

Many of the signs and symptoms women associate with menopause start during this transitional period and include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Irritability and moodiness
• Low-level depression
• Difficulty sleeping
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Vaginal dryness and irritation
• Pain during intercourse
• Low libido

You may also have an irregular menstrual cycle during perimenopause, sometimes going months without your period. 

When should I seek medical care for menopause?

Ganesh OBGYN is a full-service women’s health practice, caring for women of all ages. You should come in for medical care every year so they can monitor your health and symptoms and help you prepare for menopause. 

However, if you’re experiencing menopause symptoms that disrupt your daily life, schedule an appointment. The health experts conduct comprehensive exams, including lab work, to check your hormone levels. 

How is menopause managed?

Menopause is a normal part of a woman’s life and not something you can stop. However, the women's health providers at Ganesh OBGYN offer treatments to ease symptoms, prevent health complications, and improve the quality of life. 

Treatment options for menopause include:

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Vaginal estrogen
• Gabapentin or clonidine for hot flashes
• Low-dose antidepressants
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements for bone health
• A personalized exercise routine
• Healthy diet suggestions

The best treatment for menopause depends on your symptoms, medical history, and personal preferences. Your provider at Ganesh OBGYN can help you find the treatment that works best for you. 

You can’t stop menopause, but you can manage your symptoms. For help with menopause, call Ganesh OBGYN or schedule an appointment online today.