Menopause

Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when her menstrual period stops. With menopause, the body begins making less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This is usually between the ages of 45 and 55. A woman has entered menopause when she has not had a period for 12 months with no other cause for this change. You will begin having symptoms from the changes in your body.  Symptoms can cause discomfort.  Women may need to see their doctor to discuss options and help you make the best treatment choices.

Some women may not have any symptoms other than no menstrual cycle. But the closer a woman gets to menopause, other symptoms may begin from the change in hormones.  These include abnormal bleeding, hair loss, hot flashes, night sweats, thinning of the vagina, thinning of the bones, mood swings, irritability, depression, incontinence, loss of concentration, memory loss, sexual disinterest, and weight gain.

If you are having any of these symptoms, and they effect your quality of life, you should discuss them with your doctor.  If treatment is needed, your doctor can work with you to find the right one.