Menopause is the transition period in a woman’s life when her ovaries stop producing eggs, her body produces less estrogen and progesterone, and menstruation becomes less frequent, eventually stopping altogether.
Natural menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45-55. Menopause is official once a woman in this age range does not have a menstrual period for consecutively twelve months. During this time many women can have symptoms of menopause.
Menopause can also occur surgically. Women who have had a hysterectomy with the removal of both ovaries often experience some symptoms of menopause. If the ovaries are removed at an early age, then options to include hormone replacement for symptoms of menopause can be discussed although not all women are candidates for hormone replacement therapy.
Other reasons for menopause can be due to early ovarian failure or treatments for cancer.
Prior to menopause women can experience symptoms which can come and go. This is called the perimenopausal period.
If a woman is considered menopausal, no bleeding from the vagina should occur. If bleeding occurs after menopause, a call to the office is strongly encouraged. Follow up is recommended to rule out pathology of the pelvis or vagina.
Our Menopause Services include:
- Extended consultation, including complete review of medical history and physical exam
- Management of menopause symptoms
- Hormone testing and hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Gynecological care for menopausal women
- Preventive health care
- Information and resources related to cardiovascular, breast, bone and urogenital health, as well as lifestyle, mental health, and sexuality issues
- Assessment and treatment of sexual dysfunction
- Mammography
- Bone density testing
The most noticeable symptoms of menopause can include:
- Hot Flashes
- Night Sweats
- Moodiness or mood changes
- Vaginal changes with specifically vaginal dryness
- Weight gain
- Decreased libido