Menopause has not so affectionately been called “the change” by women throughout the centuries, and it certainly does bring changes. The biggest biological change is the drop in production of the “female” hormones estrogen and progesterone; it can make you feel like your life just got completely upended by your own body.
Fortunately, the all-female team at Women’s Health Services in Arlington, Texas is intimately familiar with the different stages of a female’s life cycle, and we’re ready and able to help you face the new challenge that is menopause.
Menopausal symptoms can vary widely from woman to woman, but in many cases certain markers can let you know your body is shutting down your reproductive system and getting ready for your golden years.
For most women (around 95%), menopause symptoms begin between 45 and 55 years of age, and the symptoms become more pronounced as you get further into the process.
Your period may become irregular, and eventually you’ll start skipping cycles. In most cases, if you go an entire year without a menstrual cycle, you are considered postmenopausal. You may also start to notice any or all of the following as your body’s hormone production drops.
You may be chronically tired physically, and your brain may be just as exhausted, making it hard to concentrate. Other heightened emotions like irritability, anger, depression, and sudden bouts of crying are also 100% normal.
You might have trouble getting to sleep and staying asleep – hot flashes and sudden sweating can make this even worse. In addition, the lack of sleep can contribute to your fatigue and brain fog and be joined by dizziness and nausea.
You may have incontinence, which can be caused partially by increased laxity of the urethral tissues. You might also need to use a vaginal lubricant to avoid pain during intercourse caused by vaginal dryness
If you’re ready to be rid of menopausal symptoms, ask your gynecologist at Women’s Health Services about hormone replacement therapy, or HRT. Hormone therapy can work to optimize your hormone levels, helping to restore balance and resolve the symptoms caused by menopause.
Your doctor can prescribe HRT to boost your levels and to alleviate many of your symptoms. HRT can also give you clearer, smoother skin and help you manage your weight more easily. HRT contains estrogen and progesterone, the same two hormones that diminish as you enter menopause.
Our team of sympathetic doctors will first make sure you are postmenopausal and don’t have other hormone deficiency problems, then lay out a plan for HRT that makes sense for you and your lifestyle.
If you don’t have preexisting conditions that make HRT dangerous, like a history of breast cancer, stroke, or blood clots, this could be the best treatment for you. Research shows that replacement hormones may also help lower your risk for osteoarthritis-associated bone fractures, dementia, and even heart disease.
Ready to get rid of your menopausal symptoms? Contact one of our conveniently located Arlington, Texas offices or book an appointment online.
