Menopause and Its Symptoms

Menopause and Its Symptoms

Menopause marks the end of reproductive capabilities for women as they stop ovulating and the menstrual cycle ceases. Most women typically go through menopause sometime during their 40s or 50s. It is a natural process, but many women experience unwanted symptoms, such as hot flashes or weight gain. The board-certified providers at Advanced Women's Healthcare in Bloomington, IL, treat menopause and can help you manage your symptoms.

Menopause and Its Symptoms

Menopause can bring about a diverse range of symptoms due to declining levels of reproductive hormones. Symptoms can even begin several years before actual menopause during what is called peri-menopause. A woman officially enters menopause when she has not had a menstrual cycle for 12 months. The average age when most women reach menopause is 51 years.

The symptoms of menopause can vary for each woman. One of the most obvious signs that menopause is approaching is irregular periods. Other symptoms that are commonly experienced by women during menopause or peri-menopause include:

  • Hot flashes
  • Night sweats
  • Weight gain
  • Mood changes
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Diminished sex drive
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Fatigue

In addition to these symptoms, some women also experience dry skin, thinning hair, chills, and a loss of fullness in the breasts. Depression and anxiety affect some menopausal women, as well.

Menopause Treatments

Several treatments are available to help women manage the symptoms of menopause. The experienced providers at our women’s healthcare office in Bloomington, IL, treat menopause and can recommend specific treatments to help alleviate symptoms. Some treatment options for managing the different symptoms of menopause include:

  • Hormone replacement therapy
  • Topical lubricants for vaginal dryness
  • Medications or supplements
  • Maintaining a healthy diet
  • Exercising regularly

Women experiencing menopause or peri-menopause are at risk for developing osteoporosis, a condition associated with a loss of bone density that can lead to brittle bones. Women with osteoporosis have an increased risk of sustaining a bone fracture or injury. For this reason, menopause treatment often also includes regular bone density screenings, as well as taking preventive measures to protect the bones. Our knowledgeable providers will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

If you are experiencing menopause or peri-menopause, we can help you find relief from uncomfortable symptoms. Schedule an appointment with one of our skilled physicians to learn more about treatment for menopause by calling Advanced Women's Healthcare in Bloomington, IL, at (309) 808-3068.