What Is Menopause?
Menopause is the period of time that is marked exactly 12 months after your last menstrual period. It is the end of your fertility and is a natural biological occurrence that every aging woman will experience. While it is most likely to happen in your late 40s to early 50s, the age can vary.
What Are Common Menopause Symptoms?
Menopausal symptoms often experienced in the period before you reach menopause, called perimenopause, include:
- Changes in libido
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue
- Hot flashes
- Insomnia or other sleep changes
- Irregular periods
- Mood swings and irritability
- Night sweats
- Weight gain
- Vaginal dryness, which may be accompanied by painful intercourse
The perimenopausal period lasts an average of four years, though it can last for up to 10. It can begin as early as your mid-30s.
You may continue to have symptoms after menopause, including vaginal dryness, mood irregularities, hot flashes, and depression. Additionally, post-menopausal women may experience stress incontinence, osteoporosis, and other unpleasant effects of the decline of hormones related to fertility.
How Is This Condition Treated?
Treatment is focused on improving your quality of life by managing symptoms. Common treatment options include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for emotional changes
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to replace declining estrogen levels
- Non-hormonal medications to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes or mood swings
- Lifestyle changes related to exercise, dietary intake, stress management, and other individual factors
- Vaginal lubricants to alleviate vaginal dryness and pain
Where Can I Find Quality Care for Menopause in Laurel or Silver Spring?
Capital Women’s Care offers quality care for menopause by providing access to experienced specialists who understand the unique healthcare needs of women during this transitional time. Our team offers comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s symptoms, preferences, and medical history.
Contact us today at our Laurel office at 301-304-1830 or our Silver Spring office at 301-259-5695 to schedule an appointment and reclaim your vitality!