Menopause is a natural part of the aging process, but it can also be incredibly disruptive for some women. At Antheia Gynecology in East Windsor, New Jersey, menopause is an area of specialty for the female-led team, which includes Dr. Helen Simigiannis with certification as a menopause practitioner from the North American Menopause Society. Don’t live with uncomfortable symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, painful intercourse and hot flashes, when there are treatments that can help. Call the office today to book a visit or use the online scheduling tool.
Menopause is a natural transition out of your reproductive years. The technical start of menopause is the point at which a full year has passed since your last period. Many women, however, begin to notice symptoms years before this point.
While menopause is a natural part of the aging process, that doesn’t mean you have to accept the symptoms of menopause as an inevitable part of growing older. There are treatments that can help you feel more like yourself as you navigate this time of transition.
Menopause often comes at a time when women are overwhelmed with the demands of career, family, and community. Many are trying to plan for retirement, care for their aging parents, and stay connected socially, all of which can be challenging when you’re dealing with ongoing symptoms.
As you near and enter menopause, your body produces lower levels of hormones, especially estrogen. That can create a wide range of symptoms, including:
These are just some of the changes you might notice as you move through menopause. Some women find their symptoms easy to manage, while others are miserable as their bodies go through menopause.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most common treatment for menopause. The process works by supplementing your natural hormone production to achieve better balance.
Since most menopause symptoms are brought on by declining hormone levels, HRT is an effective treatment option. It can take a period of trial and error to find the best level of HRT supplementation, and it takes several months for the full effects to kick in.
There are also medications that can address specific symptoms. Antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and selective estrogen receptor modulators can help.
Many times, a medication developed for a completely different purpose can help reduce symptoms like hot flashes or mood swings.
The MonaLisa TouchⓇ is a safe and comfortable laser therapy that may restore proper vaginal moisture levels and improve vaginal atrophy, making sex more enjoyable. Some women also experience improvements in bladder control after these treatments.
Lifestyle modifications are also a powerful way to combat menopause symptoms, and your doctor can discuss some areas where meaningful changes can yield results.
Getting plenty of exercise, staying connected with others, and reducing alcohol consumption are just a few examples. Preventive screening for osteoporosis is also important during menopause.
Antheia Gynecology has a certified menopause specialist through the North American Menopause Society, and menopause care is a central focus at the practice. Explore treatment options during your next visit. Call the office or book an appointment online today.
