Menopause

What is menopause?

Menopause marks the point in your life when you can no longer bear children. Menopause officially occurs when you go 12 months in a row without your period. On average, women in the United States reach menopause by age 52. 

Though menopause has a well-defined start date, you may experience the symptoms associated with menopause for several months or even years before you officially reach the change of life.

During the transitional period, called perimenopause, your estrogen levels fluctuate, which causes many of your menopausal symptoms. You may start the transition to menopause in your 30s or 40s, but most women begin perimenopause in their mid- to late-40s. 

What are menopause symptoms?

Menopause symptoms vary from woman to woman. For some, the symptoms develop quickly and severely, while for others, symptoms are mild and no different than their PMS symptoms. 

Some of the symptoms you may experience during menopause include:

• Night sweats
• Hot flashes
• Mood changes
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Weight gain
• Vaginal dryness
• Low libido

Your changing estrogen levels also affect bone health and increase your risk of developing osteoporosis. 

Though menopause symptoms vary, you shouldn’t go through the change of life without medical monitoring and care. For the management of your menopause from a compassionate team of women’s health experts, contact Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness. 

What can I expect during a menopause evaluation?

Though you can’t stop menopause, you can get medical help to ease your symptoms. When you come in to see the experts at Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness for help with your menopause, you can expect comprehensive and compassionate care.

During your exam, the team reviews your symptoms, gynecological and medical history, and family history. They then perform a physical and pelvic exam and run diagnostic tests if indicated to assess your overall health.

How is menopause managed?

Treatment for your menopause is individualized based on the severity of your symptoms and your personal medical history. To alleviate symptoms and improve your overall health, the team offers hormone replacement therapy as well as: 

• Low-dose antidepressants
• Gabapentin for hot flashes
• Clonidine for hot flashes
• Nutritional supplements
• Exercise program
• Vaginal estrogen

The team schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor you and your symptoms and adjust your plan as needed.

For compassionate care for your bothersome menopause symptoms, contact Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness by phone or online today.