Menopause Q & A

 

When are you officially in menopause?

 

Menopause is over when you haven't menstruated for 12 consecutive months. On average, women in the United States enter menopause at age 52. Perimenopause, the first stage of menopause, occurs when menstrual periods start to become irregular.

If you're not sure whether erratic periods are due to menopause or something else, Dr. Lori evaluates your symptoms and overall health to determine the cause.

 

How can you recognize menopause symptoms?

 

Menopause symptoms vary, but most women experience at one or more of the following symptoms:

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• Night sweats

• Hot flashes

• Mood swings

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Decreased libido

• Vaginal dryness

• Vaginal atrophy

• Brain fog

• Breast tenderness

• Difficulty sleeping

• Headaches

 

Although these symptoms can be uncomfortable, overwhelming, and inconvenient, proper menopause management with Dr. Lori can alleviate your symptoms, allowing you to continue living a healthy and full life through this natural transition.

 

How can you manage menopause symptoms?

 

While you can't avoid menopause, there are several ways to manage the symptoms effectively and increase your quality of life. Dr. Lori works with you to customize a menopause symptom management plan based on your unique needs.

FDA-approved hormone therapy is often the best way to manage menopause symptoms. The forms of hormonal therapy include:

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• Oral forms

• Transdermal patches, creams, and gels

• Vaginal rings

 

Can you stop using birth control if your periods are tapering off?

 

During menopause, your periods are less and less frequent, but that doesn't mean it's safe to stop using birth control. Dr. Lori usually recommends that women continue with their chosen birth control method until they've completed menopause (12 consecutive months without menstruation).

 

The key to the successful management of menopause is addressing the symptoms as soon as they start. Dr. Lori is here to help you feel like yourself through menopause and beyond. Make an appointment with Dr. Lori today.