Imagine waking up one day and feeling a sudden surge of heat, with your heart racing and your body drenched in sweat. You might think it’s a fever, but no — it’s the most notorious symptom of menopause — a hot flash.
For many women, menopause comes with uncomfortable symptoms. And that may be the extent of their understanding of this big transition.
But what is menopause, exactly?
When does it occur?
What can you do to manage the symptoms?
Having answers can put your mind at ease, whether menopause is still on the horizon for you, or whether you’re in the thick of it. Let’s discuss some key indicators of menopause and what you can do to find support.
Menopause Definition
Many people misunderstand the clinical definition of menopause. Technically, it’s a term used only after a woman stops having menstrual periods for a full 12 months. The years that lead up to this point in time may bring a lot of changes. This transition is called “perimenopause”, and it usually occurs between the ages of 45-55.
Some of the common symptoms during perimenopause include:
- Irregular or heavier periods
- Hot flashes
- Joint pain
- Vaginal Dryness
What Happens During Perimenopause & Menopause?
During perimenopause, the production of estrogen and progesterone — two hormones made by the ovaries — begins to decrease. This decrease causes most of the symptoms associated with menopause.
Menopause is when your ovaries definitively stop releasing eggs for at least 12 months, permanently marking the end of your menstrual periods.
There are a few important things to note about decreased estrogen production: it increases the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s Disease. So, it’s crucial to continue your yearly exams with your OBGYN and primary care physician.
Menopause Symptoms
The symptoms of menopause are a result of fluctuating hormone levels, and they vary significantly from woman to woman. Some are fortunate to have a few mild symptoms, while others are plagued by multiple intense symptoms.
Some of the most common menopause symptoms include:
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness
- Night sweats
- Difficulty sleeping
- Urinary urgency
- Fatigue
- Irregular vaginal bleeding
- Dry skin, eyes, or mouth
- Emotional changes
- Breast tenderness
- Worsening PMS
- Changes in libido
- Weight gain
- Hair loss or thinning
Thankfully, there are options to help manage most menopause symptoms, no matter how severely they’re affecting you.
What Menopause Means for You
Menopause is often called the “change of life.” It signals the end of a woman’s ability to have children and is a natural occurrence that happens to every woman.
While some seem to dread the day this change occurs, others look forward to it. Many women enjoy no longer experiencing menstrual periods and the side effects they often bring. Some women even report experiencing a new zest for life!
While the thought of menopause may bring mixed feelings, remember — there’s support available if you need it.
Menopause Management
Empire OBGYN offers several effective treatment options that help mitigate symptoms and reduce the associated risks of menopause. Treatments for menopause symptoms can include medication, hormone therapy, and diet changes.
Even if you’re heading towards menopause with little to no apparent symptoms (lucky you!), it’s still important to see your OBGYN regularly to monitor your overall health — including breast health and screening for other issues that are common in postmenopausal women.
Empire OBGYN offers a wide variety of services and procedures to ensure the highest level of health care for our patients.
Getting Menopause Support in Buffalo, NY
Whether menopause is a seamless transition or it feels like a rollercoaster, Empire OBGYN is your partner in lifelong health and wellbeing.
If you think you might be approaching menopause, have unexplained symptoms, or want to explore medication or other management methods, please schedule an appointment with one of our providers as soon as possible!You can learn more about our practice, view our hours, and schedule an appointment here.
