The Signs and Symptoms of Menopause

Most women have heard of menopause – we associate it closely with aging and a significant transition into a new life stage. Still, many women are caught off guard by menopause, typically because they don’t understand exactly what it is or what it looks like. If you’re in your 40s or beyond, knowing the signs and symptoms of menopause can help you know when to consult our team about managing the effects. Here’s what to know about it and how our team at Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics can help.

What is Menopause?

There are many misconceptions about menopause. At its core, menopause is the natural cessation of a woman’s menstrual cycles due to lower levels of estrogen and progesterone produced by the ovaries. Menopause can begin anywhere from your 40s to 50s, and you’ll likely experience a phase known as perimenopause in the months or years leading up to it. Menopause is indicated by a full 12 months without a period, although they don’t always stop completely. Many women don’t undergo any treatment for menopause, but you may find that the symptoms may become disruptive to your day-to-day life. In this case, you have many options for treatment.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Menopause?

The symptoms of menopause can be different for each woman, and they may come on quickly or gradually. Here are some of the most common symptoms of menopause:

Irregular Bleeding

The most noticeable symptom of menopause is irregular menstrual cycles. You may begin skipping months or experience periods for a few months and then stop. Your periods may become closer together and you may experience spontaneous bleeding or spotting. Once you stop experiencing periods for a full year, you’re considered menopausal. Keep in mind that pregnancy is still possible even with unpredictable periods – and your proximity to menopause can make pregnancy risky.

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are one of the most well-known symptoms of menopause. They may occur more often at night along with night sweats, causing difficulty sleeping for many women. Hot flashes may also cause visible redness on your skin, along with noticeable sweating.

Changes in Mental and Emotional Health

Shifts in emotional health are common during menopause, and women may experience irritability, mood swings, and anxiety.   These emotional changes can be challenging to navigate, and they may also impact other areas of life.  Sleep disturbances can occur, leading to fatigue. Difficulties with concentration and focus may arise, further exacerbating low mood.

Sexual Dysfunction

Difficulties with intimacy are a very common effect of menopause. Because of the lower levels of estrogen and progesterone, you may experience vaginal dryness and even pain during sex. Additionally, you may not desire sex like you used to, which can put a strain on your intimate relationships.

Treatment for Menopause

Reducing the symptoms of menopause by incorporating hormone replacement therapy can help increase your energy and strength, improve your heart health, enhance your sleep hygiene, help with mood, memory and mental clarity, and reduce inflammation. Hormone therapy is the most effective way to restore your hormone levels, and a variety of options such as pellets, gels, creams, and pills are available. Additionally, Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics offers non-invasive vaginal treatments such as the O-Shot®, ThermiVa®, and Mona Lisa to help, enhance sexual satisfaction, reduce urinary incontinence, alleviate vaginal dryness, and aid in labial tightening. During an appointment with our knowledgeable providers, you can create personalized therapy based on your symptoms and healthcare needs.

Hormone Therapy at Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics

To learn more about your options for intimate health and menopause symptoms, contact our office today by calling or filling out our contact form.

Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics

Board-Certified Physicians

Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics, located in Lake Success, NY, provides solutions for men and women’s intimate health issues. Tideline consists of dedicated physicians and staff that specialize in personalized care and support. Doctors Girardi, Handler, Powers, and Gerardi address low libido, painful sex, hormonal imbalances, rejuvenation, and aesthetic treatments. Our team is available to you for intimate healthcare needs.

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