Menopause shouldn’t be a frightening time. It’s the natural progression to the end of your reproductive years, but you will need special care for some unique aspects of it.
When Does Menopause Start?
You’re in menopause when you go 12 months without a period. Most women reach menopause in their early- to mid-50s, but perimenopause that occurs before menopause can last several years and symptoms can begin in your mid-40s.
Menopause Health Risks
The low hormone levels that occur with menopause can increase your risk for health problems including bone loss, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep troubles, low sex drive and women’s cancers. The right treatments can minimize those risks and manage the symptoms of menopause.
Menopause Treatment Options
There are hormonal and non-hormonal therapies to ease menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and cold sweats. Urinary incontinence can also be treated and sometimes cured, and nutrition counseling will help you avoid weight gain that can happen when menopause slows your metabolism.
Mood swings are common with menopause because of fluctuating hormones. This can be treated with hormone therapy or may require the use of antidepressants if you feel overly anxious or depressed.
Until you go 12 months without a period, you can still get pregnant even if your periods happen infrequently. Your doctor can recommend a safe birth control method that takes into account your age, lifestyle and health factors like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Come to Northline for Menopause Treatment
Remember that you don’t have to suffer in silence with the effects of menopause. The experience doctors at Northline Women's Health Center are ready to offer unique treatments to help you. Be sure to maintain a regular schedule of well-woman visits and reach out when needed so you’ll have a trusted partner for menopause care.
Request an appointment today.
