Menopause

Menopause Q&A

What is menopause?

You officially reach menopause after you haven’t had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Your hormones fluctuate and decline in the years preceding menopause, known as perimenopause, causing many disruptive symptoms. 

Some of the common signs of menopause include:

• Irregular and absent periods

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Weight gain

• Vaginal dryness

• Painful sex

• Loss of libido

• Vaginal infections

• Insomnia

• Memory problems

• Increased irritability

• Depression and anxiety 

You may or may not experience these symptoms as you approach and reach menopause — every woman has a unique experience. 

When should I talk to a doctor about menopause?

As you age, you should talk to your doctor about any changes in your health that could be linked to menopause-related hormonal changes. You can start to prepare for menopause by having honest conversations about your health and expectations. 

You should definitely talk to your physician if your menopause symptoms interfere with your health or quality of life. 

Many women suffer through their symptoms, thinking it’s normal to be uncomfortable and unhappy. This isn’t the case, and the doctors at Highland Park Ob-Gyn Associates can help.

We even offer non-surgical options to treat vaginal discomfort, vaginal dryness, and pain with intercourse. If you're experiencing these symptoms, our office offers ThermiVa treatment.

What is included in menopause management programs?

The physicians at Highland Park Ob-Gyn Associates provide highly personalized menopause management services that are tailored to meet your specific concerns. While each treatment program is unique, the services typically fall under three classifications. 

An evaluation

The doctors begin with a thorough evaluation of your health. They talk to you in detail about your symptoms, lifestyle, and overall health. They perform a physical examination, including a pelvic exam, and may perform lab work and diagnostic imaging tests to confirm that your symptoms are due to menopause.

Your doctor might also recommend an osteoporosis evaluation, including a bone scan. They also evaluate your cardiovascular health and screen for other diseases. 

You should talk to your physician about any menopause-related concerns such as your sexual health, urinary function, weight, and energy levels. 

Lifestyle modifications

The team at Highland Park Ob-Gyn Associates wants to help you stay as healthy as possible. Often, adopting healthy habits can reduce your symptoms or make them easier to manage. 

You might benefit from adjusting your diet to reduce salt, sugar, spices, alcohol, and caffeine. Adding exercise to your daily routine can boost your mood and energy levels. These changes can also help manage your weight.

Medication

If necessary, your doctor might prescribe medicine to relieve your menopausal symptoms. For example, some women benefit from hormone replacement therapy, while others find antidepressants helpful. 

Don’t let menopause get you down. Call Highland Park Ob-Gyn Associates or make an appointment online today for personalized menopausal services.