Menopause

What is menopause?

Menopause is the end of female fertility and the menstrual cycle. You’re usually considered to be going through menopause if a year has passed since your last period. It typically starts around age 50, but some women experience premature menopause in their 30s or 40s.

It’s a natural process, but the symptoms of menopause can be an uncomfortable challenge for many women. The symptoms correlate with a decline in the production of estrogen and progesterone.

A hysterectomy can trigger an early onset of menopause if the ovaries were removed, which is where your body produces reproductive hormones. Premature menopause can also occur due to certain medical conditions, such as primary ovarian insufficiency, and cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.

Bluebonnet OB/GYN offers hormonal and non-hormonal treatments and laser therapy to alleviate the symptoms of menopause.

Hormonal creams and therapies restore hormonal balance and supplement low estrogen levels, consequently alleviating a range of symptoms. Non-hormonal treatments use other methods, such as laser energy to stimulate collagen production in the vaginal canal to combat vaginal symptoms.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Leading up to menopause in the phase referred to as perimenopause, many women experience bothersome symptoms and irregular menstruation. Some of the common menopausal symptoms include:

• Dry skin
• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Thinning hair
• Vaginal dryness
• Poor sleep quality
• Painful intercourse
• Urinary incontinence
• Loss of breast fullness
• Weight gain and slow metabolism

Why should I see a gynecologist during menopause?

The support of a provider trained in gynecology and women’s health can go a long way in helping you to have a better menopause experience.

Dr. Brougher and Laurie can provide valuable medical care before, during, and after menopause. You can ask questions, discuss your sexual health, and voice your most intimate concerns. You can also find relief from your symptoms with effective services offered at Bluebonnet OB/GYN, including hormonal and non-hormonal treatments and the MonaLisa Touch® vaginal laser.

Your regular gynecological visits and well-woman exams are an integral part of your preventive care through every part of life, but especially during menopause when your body is undergoing hormonal and physical changes.

Menopause and low estrogen production can increase your risk of certain chronic diseases, such as osteoporosis and weakened bone density, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Preventive care, the right treatments, and lifestyle changes can keep you healthy and lower these risks.

Call Bluebonnet OB/GYN for top quality gynecologic care. You can also conveniently book your appointment online.