Menopause officially occurs when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period. Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause, and it can last for years. During perimenopause and menopause, women experience changes caused by declining estrogen levels, such as:
These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they can last for years. Timely treatment is important for alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life.
Hormone therapy (HT) can provide immense relief by replacing depleted hormones. Benefits include:
There is no “one size fits all” approach to managing menopause. Our menopause doctors and practitioners take the time to understand each woman's unique situation and needs. We provide customized bioidentical hormone therapy plans based on lab testing and a comprehensive health evaluation.
Treatment may include:
We also provide nutrition advice, fitness guidance, stress management techniques, and treatment of other conditions that can affect menopause symptoms.
At Hormone Harmony Clinic in , our best menopause doctors and practitioners have decades of experience successfully treating women going through menopause. We stay up to date on the latest research and treatment options. Our goal is to help women thrive during this transition and beyond.
We provide comprehensive lab testing, bioidentical hormones, nutrition and lifestyle counseling, and an individualized approach. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take control of your menopause symptoms.Here is a 502 word FAQ on menopause treatment with 5 topics and markdown formatting:
A little-known alternative treatment for managing menopausal symptoms is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Studies show CBT can help improve mood, sleep, and quality of life in menopausal women by teaching coping strategies for hot flashes, night sweats, and emotional changes. CBT helps women view menopause as a natural transition rather than a medical condition needing treatment.
The most common symptoms of menopause are hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, difficulty sleeping, irritability, mood changes, slower metabolism, thinning hair, dry skin, and irregular periods. Hot flashes can come on suddenly with a feeling of intense body heat and sweating. Night sweats often accompany hot flashes and can disrupt sleep. Vaginal dryness can make intercourse painful. Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating are also frequent menopausal complaints. These symptoms are a natural result of declining estrogen levels.
Hormone therapy with estrogen, progesterone, or both is the most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms. Estrogen helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Progesterone offsets the increased risk of uterine cancer from using estrogen alone. Low-dose birth control pills, skin patches, vaginal rings, or creams can deliver hormone therapy. Antidepressants such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or paroxetine (Paxil) may help with mood swings, irritability, anxiety and hot flashes. Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant drug that can also alleviate hot flashes. Over-the-counter lubricants can help make intercourse more comfortable if vaginal dryness is an issue.
Some women choose to manage menopausal symptoms through lifestyle changes and natural remedies. Regular exercise helps reduce hot flashes, improves mood, and offsets weight gain. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and hot beverages can help minimize hot flashes. Soy foods containing isoflavones act like mild estrogen in the body and may have benefits. Herbs like black cohosh, red clover, and chasteberry have helped some women, but clinical evidence is mixed. Acupuncture, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy can improve sleep and mood issues. Staying cool with layered clothing, cooling bedding, and lowering room temperature may also provide relief.
Many women gain weight during and after menopause, often accumulating fat around the abdomen. Hormonal shifts contribute to a slower metabolism. To manage menopausal weight gain, be more mindful of diet and exercise habits. Focus on lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats while limiting processed carbs and added sugars. Portion control is key as calorie needs decrease with age. Aerobic activity like brisk walking for 30-60 minutes daily can help burn calories and elevate mood. Strength training twice a week builds muscle mass which boosts metabolism. Getting adequate sleep and managing stress are also important for maintaining a healthy weight.
It's a good idea to talk to your doctor if menopause symptoms are significantly disrupting quality of life. Severe or prolonged symptoms may warrant treatment. Keep your doctor informed about all medications and supplements you are using. Report any abnormal vaginal bleeding right away as it can be a warning sign. Discuss your personal and family health history with your doctor to determine if you are at increased risk of conditions like osteoporosis or heart disease which may influence recommended treatments. Your doctor can work with you to develop an appropriate menopause management plan based on your individual needs and health status.
