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Menopause
Menopause is the natural process in a woman's life where the menstrual cycles end. It can frequently occur as a quiet transition but, for some women, it can come with hormonal, social and emotional upheaval that can be very disruptive to one's health. Let us help you find your path through the menopausal change.
What is menopause?
Menopause is the natural culmination of a woman's reproductive journey, signified by the halt of menstrual cycles. It's definitively marked after a year without menstruation, though the term often denotes the time of hormonal shifts.
Preceding menopause is perimenopause, a phase where hormones like estrogen and progesterone wane, leading to irregular periods and the onset of various symptoms. This transition embodies significant changes in a woman's body.
Types of irregular periods, treatment options and prevention
Are there different types of menopause?
Menopause is a change every woman goes through, but it can happen in different ways. Some women experience it as they age, while others might go through it earlier or because of surgery. Each type has its own set of reasons and effects.
Natural menopause: This is the spontaneous end of menstrual cycles that occurs around the age of 51 on average, though it can range from 42 to late-50s. The age one enters menopause is often similar to that of their mother. Lifestyle factors like smoking and being underweight can lead to earlier menopause, while being overweight can delay it.
Early menopause: Occurs before the age of 42 and can be linked to factors like smoking, radiation exposure, chemotherapy and certain surgeries.
Surgical menopause: Results from medical interventions such as the removal of one or both ovaries or radiation of the pelvis. Unlike natural menopause, surgical menopause occurs suddenly and can lead to more abrupt symptoms.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Menopause ushers in a range of symptoms, reflecting the body's adaptation to changing hormone levels. From thermal disruptions like hot flashes to emotional shifts, each symptom narrates a facet of this transformative phase.
Hot flashes and night sweats: Brief, sudden increases in body temperature can occur multiple times a day, often even before the last menstrual period. Night sweats are hot flashes that disturb sleep.
Vaginal and urinary symptoms: Thinning and drying of vaginal tissues can cause pain during sex and increase the risk of infections. Pelvic muscle relaxation may lead to urinary incontinence.
Cardiac effects: Include dizziness, numbness, tingling and heart palpitations.
Hair and skin changes: Hormonal changes can lead to increased facial hair and scalp hair thinning.
Mental health symptoms: Such as fatigue, mood swings, insomnia and nervousness.
What treatment options are available for menopause at Nuvance Health?
At Nuvance Health, we prioritize individualized care, providing a range of treatments tailored to your unique menopausal journey. Explore your options with our clinicians:
Hormone therapy (HT): Involves taking estrogen and sometimes progesterone to alleviate symptoms. It's available in various forms like pills, patches and creams. It's crucial to discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.
Estrogen therapy (ET): Involves taking only estrogen and is generally for women who've had a hysterectomy.
Non-hormonal treatment: Using other medications to relieve symptoms.Estrogen alternatives: Synthetic estrogens, such as ospemifene, that target specific symptoms without increasing the risk of certain cancers.
Alternative therapies: Homeopathy and herbal treatments, which may provide some symptom relief. However, their potency and safety are sometimes in question.
Navigate menopause with confidence.
At Nuvance Health®, we understand the intricacies of menopause. Our compassionate approach ensures every woman feels heard and supported, offering treatments tailored for individual needs. With leading clinicians and a commitment to holistic care, we're here to guide you at every stage of your menopausal journey. Ready to take the next step with us?
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