Menopause
Menopause
Are you approaching menopause? It’s a natural part of aging and involves many changes. If you want to know more about what to expect or get some relief from symptoms you’re experiencing, your UWH of the Carolinas provider can help.
Find A ProviderThe Transition to Menopause
Like other changes in the body, menopause is not something that suddenly happens but is part of a slow transition. There are three stages to the menopausal transition:
- Perimenopause
- Menopause
- Postmenopause
The first stage is perimenopause, which happens before your menstrual cycle stops. Your hormone levels begin to shift during this time. Your period may differ from what you’re used to, both in terms of duration and flow.
You are considered in menopause when you have not had a period for a year, including no bleeding or spotting. Many people experience this around age 51.
The last phase of this transition is called postmenopause. You will no longer produce estrogen at this point and no longer be able to get pregnant.
Menopause Symptoms
Menopause can be different for everyone. Some people only have mild symptoms, while others have more intense experiences. Your provider can help you manage your discomfort and minimize disruption to your daily life.
Some of the most common symptoms of menopause include:
- Irregular periods, including spotting between periods
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal and bladder problems
- Hair thinning
- Joint aches
- Sleep issues
Your provider can determine the cause of these symptoms via blood tests, thyroid testing, or a physical exam. This can confirm if you are in menopause or if something else is going on.
You are welcome to ask any questions about menopause, your symptoms, or treatment recommendations. Your provider is here to help you feel comfortable and give you all the information you need about your care.
Menopausal Management
There are medications, procedures, and lifestyle changes you can make to manage symptoms of menopause. Your provider can help you find the best options that relieve your symptoms based on your medical history and lifestyle.
- Medication for Menopause Symptoms
Your provider may recommend Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) to help reduce your symptoms. MHT gives you the two hormones your ovaries used to produce estrogen and progesterone.
If MHT isn’t right for you, other medication options target specific symptoms. - Lifestyle Changes
Some lifestyle changes may help reduce the symptoms of menopause. For example, soy and other supplements in your diet can help reduce the severity and timing of hot flashes and other symptoms.
Vaginal lubricants and moisturizers used during sex can help reduce vaginal dryness.
Certainly! Here's the revised content, reflecting the requested changes: - Energy-Based Vaginal Rejuvenation Therapies
If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness and discomfort, your provider may recommend a procedure called energy-based vaginal rejuvenation. These therapies use laser or other energy technologies to deliver treatment to your vaginal wall tissue, helping to relieve symptoms and improve comfort.
Typically, three sessions are recommended, though many people begin to experience relief after the first session. Our in-office healthcare team will perform your treatment, and since there is no anesthesia required, you can return to your normal activities quickly.
Explore Menopausal Care with Your Provider
Menopause is an adjustment for many people; you don’t have to sit with the discomfort alone. Your UWH of the Carolinas provider can help you find relief from menopausal symptoms and provide you with any support you need during this transition. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.
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