Menopause & Perimenopause Specialist

What is menopause?

Menopause is the period of your life that begins one year after your last menstrual cycle. The average age of menopause in the United States is 51 years, although it is common during your 40s and 50s. Once you reach menopause, you are no longer fertile, although you can continue to enjoy sex. Menopause comes with age naturally, but it can also result from chemotherapy during cancer treatment and after a hysterectomy.

Symptoms of menopause may be mild or more severe. You should seek treatment if your symptoms bother you. The following are common symptoms of menopause.

• Hot flashes
• Mood changes
• Night sweats
• Trouble sleeping
• Vaginal dryness

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the period of time leading up to menopause. It can last for a decade or longer, and begin in your 30s. During this time, your ovaries make less estrogen. The symptoms of perimenopause are similar to those of menopause, although you may not experience many or they may not be severe.

How is menopause diagnosed and treated?

Your gynecologist may ask you about your symptoms to evaluate you for menopause. You’re also likely to be asked about the date of your last menstrual period and whether your cycles are regular. Your doctor may order blood tests of estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Treatment can help relieve symptoms. It may include the following.

• Hormone treatment with estrogen to replace the estrogen that your body is no longer making.
• Antidepressants if you are having symptoms of depression.
• Medications for osteoporosis if your bones have low density.

Do I need treatment for menopause?

Even if you do not seek treatment for menopause symptoms because they are not troublesome, you should still stay in contact with your regular gynecologist during this time. That’s because menopause increases your risk for certain conditions.

• Heart disease.
• Osteoporosis, or thin bones with a risk for fractures.
• Weight gain.
• Urinary incontinence