Menopause

A smiling, active mature woman with short gray hair stretches toward her toes while sitting on green grass in a sunny park.

Menopause occurs when women experience changes and symptoms before or after menstruation stops. The ovaries no longer release eggs monthly, making pregnancy impossible. While a natural process all women experience, some cases require medical treatment.

Stages of Menopause

Menopause typically begins in a woman’s 40s or 50s, with symptoms potentially lasting several years.

Perimenopause

This preliminary stage happens several years before menopause begins. The body produces decreasing amounts of estrogen and progesterone. Women may start experiencing symptoms that persist through menopause. When more than 60 days pass between menstrual periods, menopause may be approaching.

Menopause

Symptom severity and duration vary individually. Common signs include:

  • Irregular periods: Menstrual cycles may change in frequency, duration, or heaviness. Medications like birth control can help regulate periods.
  • Hot flashes and night sweats: Hot flashes are the most frequent symptom of menopause and can cause facial flushing or perspiration. Night sweats disrupt sleep. Avoiding triggers—stress, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, tight clothing—helps manage them.
  • Mood and memory changes: Hormonal shifts trigger mood changes, potentially worsening anxiety or depression. Persistent sadness or excessive forgetfulness warrants medical consultation.
  • Vaginal dryness: Reduced estrogen causes vaginal skin drying, potentially making intercourse painful. Treatments like MonaLisa Touch stimulate collagen production to address dryness.

Postmenopause

This phase begins 12 months after the final menstrual period. Menopausal symptoms gradually improve, but reduced estrogen increases risks for osteoporosis and heart disease. Routine gynecological exams remain important.

Menopause Management

Lifestyle Modifications

  • Balanced nutrition with fruits and vegetables
  • Stress reduction through meditation
  • Regular exercise for weight management and mood improvement
  • Avoiding symptom triggers

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT is used to help relieve symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. Medications containing estrogen and progesterone restore declining hormone levels, though it’s not appropriate for everyone.

  • Non-hormonal medications: SSRIs and SNRIs may address hot flashes and mood symptoms.
  • Vaginal care: Over-the-counter lubricants and moisturizers provide relief from dryness and intercourse discomfort.
  • Alternative approaches: Some women benefit from acupuncture, yoga, herbal supplements, or mind-body techniques. Doctor consultation is essential before starting alternatives.
  • Health screenings: Regular check-ups detect risks for osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and breast cancer.

Discuss any menopausal symptoms with your gynecologist to develop an appropriate management plan.

Schedule a Menopause Consultation

Our team at Associates for Women’s Medicine provides compassionate, individualized care for every stage of menopause. Call us at (315) 422-2222 or request an appointment online.

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