Menopause

What is menopause?

If you’re a woman, menopause is a natural transition in your life when your periods stop and you can’t pregnant anymore. It will typically occur in your 40s or 50s and is often preceded by perimenopause.

Perimenopause typically begins in your 40s, when your ovaries begin to produce fewer hormones. This transition can take a long time, and the fluctuation in your hormones can cause uncomfortable symptoms.

What is early or premature menopause?

Early menopause occurs in women between the ages of 40-45, and premature menopause occurs before the age of 40. In these cases, you’ll experience perimenopause and menopause symptoms earlier than normal.

Early and premature menopause can be triggered by a history of smoking and using certain medications. Talk with Dr. Ehiremen if this is a concern for you.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Menopause symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they can change each month as your hormones fluctuate and your periods become irregular. Common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Irregular bleeding
• Difficulty sleeping
• Urinary incontinence
• Depression and anxiety

These symptoms can be relieved with lifestyle advice and treatment at TriState OBGYN PC, so you can continue to enjoy your life without the unpleasant side effects of menopause.

How can I get relief from menopause symptoms?

If your hormone symptoms are becoming difficult to handle, Dr. Ehiremen can provide lifestyle advice and medications to relieve your symptoms.

To relieve vaginal dryness and discomfort during sexual intercourse, Dr. Ehiremen may recommend over-the-counter creams, lubricants, and moisturizers. He may also prescribe medication.

To relieve hot flashes, mood swings, and feelings of anxiety and depression, he may recommend hormonal birth control medications and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

What is menopause hormone therapy?

If fluctuating hormones are causing your problematic symptoms, Dr. Ehiremen can prescribe medication for hormone therapy. Hormone therapy — also called hormone replacement therapy — can help ease hormonal fluctuations for a smoother transition into menopause.

Hormone therapy involves taking specific dosages of hormones you are deficient in. This helps reduce the irregular fluctuations that are causing your symptoms. There are many kinds of hormone therapies, and Dr. Ehiremen will work with you to determine which option is best for you based on your symptoms and overall health.

If you’re tired of dealing with menopause symptoms, book an appointment with TriState OBGYN PC online or over the phone today.