If you are suffering with hot flashes, insomnia, and weight gain then its time to schedule a menopause consultation. Menopause is inevitable but it doesn’t mean you have to suffer. Here are some questions you should ask during your menopause consultation.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Most women going through menopause experience symptoms that can become quite disruptive. During menopause, estrogen and progesterone decrease and this change causes a broad range of symptoms. While hot flashes and night sweats are well known symptoms, other common symptoms include:
- Irregular vaginal bleeding
- Insomnia or sleep disturbance
- Vaginal dryness
- Painful sex
- Moodiness
- Depression and anxiety
- Weight gain
- Brain fog and memory issues
- Heart palpitations
- Joint and muscle pain
- Skin thinning
How long do symptoms usually last?
While it may seem unending, the average transition period with hot sweats and night flashes lasts between six months and two years. However, factors such as family history, ethnicity, and lifestyle can make the transition and its symptoms last much longer.
Can you treat my symptoms?
Absolutely. There are many medications that help decrease menopause symptoms. Personal lubricants can help with vaginal dryness and there are medications that can help with hot flashes. Hormone replacement therapy can also reduce your symptoms.
Will lifestyle changes help?
Some foods that contain plant-based estrogen may help. Phytoestrogens mimic the estrogen in your body. Some examples of these foods include soy, flax seeds, sesame seeds.
Additionally, we recommend regular exercise to help with weight gain and insomnia, as well as a healthy diet and at least 1200 mg of calcium a day.
Do I still need birth control?
Once you have gone a full year without menstrual cycles, you’re considered menopausal and don’t need birth control, but some providers recommend continuing birth control for two years.
Do I still need well-woman visits?
Yes. Even if you don’t need birth control, its still important to screen for cancer, or sexually transmitted disease and address other concerns like incontinence.
Schedule a Menopause Consultation Today
Are you ready to speak to a doctor about your symptoms? Contact the Menopause Center today to learn more.