Menopause is a natural transition that all women experience as they age. Typically occurring between the ages of 45-55, menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive years.
Perimenopause is the transitional stage leading up to menopause when hormone levels begin to fluctuate and decline. During this time, women may experience changes like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and irregular periods before reaching full menopause.
Menopause is clinically defined as the point when a woman has not had a menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months and signaling that the ovaries have stopped releasing eggs. Since estrogen levels have declined substantially during menopause, women are no longer able to become pregnant naturally.
Some key symptoms associated with menopause include:
The severity of symptoms varies significantly among women. While some experience mild issues, others struggle tremendously with severe hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disruptions that impact quality of life.
Over the long-term, the decline of estrogen associated with menopause can negatively impact bone, heart, and brain health if left unaddressed. Some ways to mitigate these risks include:
At Hormone Health Center, our caring medical team specializes in perimenopause and menopause management. We provide personalized care plans, including hormone therapy options, to help women address symptoms and promote long-lasting health during this transition. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!