Menopause Specialist

What causes menopause?

Menopause occurs when the production of the hormones declines as a result of aging. Although these hormones are most closely identified with reproductive health, they exert an influence on virtually every part of the body. Their decline can cause an array of symptoms as well as increase the risks of several medical conditions.

Menopause symptoms typically begin in a woman’s 40s, with periods ending usually by age 55. The time leading up to the complete cessation of periods is called perimenopause. A woman is said to be in menopause when she hasn’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. Symptoms can begin during perimenopause and continue beyond menopause. It is also important for women to know that eventhough they may be done menstruating with a monthly period, they still continue to have a cycle with high and low levels of hormones at different times of the month. This continues to affect mood, bloating, weight, cravings, and sometimes cramps. 

What symptoms occur during menopause?

During perimenopause, women may develop classic menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. However, they’re most likely to experience changes in their menstrual periods, such as irregular periods, heavy bleeding, lighter periods, and spotting between periods.

The classic symptoms of menopause include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Pain during intercourse
• Urinary incontinence
• Fatigue
• Reduced interest in sex
• Moodiness, irritability or depression
• Problems focusing or concentrating
• Hair loss on the head or hair growth on the face
• Dry or itchy skin
• Vaginal burning or itching
• Sleep disturbances
• Weight gain, especially in the belly area
  
  

Some women may have many symptoms, while other women have very few symptoms.

Can I still get pregnant during perimenopause?

Although fertility levels drop prior to menopause, a woman can still get pregnant during perimenopause, and some form of birth control should be used to prevent unintended pregnancy. Once menopause occurs and periods stop, pregnancy cannot occur.

Can menopause be treated?

A variety of treatments are available to manage menopause. Some treatments like vaginal lubricants or medications to aid in sleep can address specific symptoms, but many women benefit from bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to replace hormones.

Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to the hormones produced by your body, so you have fewer side effects and risks during treatment. Shasta performs a biochemical analysis of hormones to ensure dosing remains optimized for your evolving needs.

Don’t continue to suffer from menopause symptoms. Call Remedi Health to book an appointment.