Women, are you wondering if you’re going through menopause? Do you have questions about that crucial stage of your life? We at Northwest Associates for Women's Healthcare can help you answer some of the main questions. Need more? Contact us for all your Hoffman Estates, IL obstetric and gynecological needs.

What Is Menopause?

It is a stage of a woman’s life cycle that indicates the cessation of her capacity to reproduce. It commonly develops during the middle age, probably between the ages of 45 and 55. Menopause is the absence of menstruation for one year which means the end of fertility and marked reduction of estrogen and progesterone production. Perimenopause is a phase that includes the period before actual menopause, and hormonal changes during this period are also rather irregular.

What Is Menopause and What Are The Symptoms?

The common menopause symptoms are hot flashes, night sweats, and changes in the menstrual cycle. Women can also experience sleep disorders, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and a reduced sex drive. These symptoms are not always present and/or are not at the same level or lasting for the same length of time.

What It Means For Your Health 

Some negative health impacts are likely to occur due to low estrogen levels as is characteristic of women after menopause. Bone density is reduced thereby increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fracture. As far as cardiovascular health is concerned, estrogen may have an effect since it aids in the maintenance of healthy blood vessels. There is also the possibility of gaining weight and an increased incidence of type 2 diabetes.

How To Manage Symptoms

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can help women with hot flashes and protect their bones; however, it comes with risks that make it unsuitable for every woman.
A diet with enough calcium and vitamin D along with regular exercise involving weight-bearing will also help in providing strength to the bones.

There are so many things you can do to stabilize your moods and reduce the stress that may come with menopause; these include mindfulness, yoga, and therapy. Lubricants and moisturizers can help relieve vaginal dryness. Pelvic floor exercises can help with urinary problems.

Regular health check-ups, such as bone density testing and cardiovascular examinations, are required during and following menopause. Staying knowledgeable and proactive about menopause can help women manage their symptoms and retain a high quality of life. Understanding menopause allows women to approach this natural transition with confidence and control.

If you’d like to talk to someone about your symptoms, or if you need other women’s healthcare screenings, contact Northwest Associates for Women's Healthcare at (847) 884-1800 in Hoffman Estates, IL.