There are so many misconceptions surrounding this pivotal time in a woman’s life, even though every woman must go through it. The top menopause specialists in Great Falls, Virginia often answer questions about menopause symptoms and treatment options and are sharing the info on what you should know. Some of this may surprise you!

The Top Menopause Specialists in Great Falls, Virginia Wish You Knew That Menopause Symptoms Can Begin up to 10 Years Beforehand, a Condition Called Perimenopause

Perimenopause, often referred to as the menopausal transition, is the stage that precedes full menopause. It can begin years before a woman reaches menopause and is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles. Some women experience lighter periods while others experience heavier flows, and you may have spotting between periods as well.

Other signs include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, changes in vaginal health, and other symptoms as estrogen declines.

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Once you’ve gone a full 12 months without a menstrual period, menopause can be diagnosed. This often occurs in a woman’s late 40s to early 50s. However, the exact timing can vary widely from one individual to another.

Each woman’s experience during perimenopause and menopause is unique, with some women having relatively mild symptoms, while others may find them disruptive to their daily lives. Understanding and managing these symptoms is a crucial aspect of navigating the perimenopausal phase.

They Also Want You to Know Lifestyle Changes Can Help Improve Your Symptoms

There are many things you can do at home to help. For example, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Staying physically active with regular exercise, managing stress through techniques like meditation or yoga, getting adequate sleep, and quitting smoking if applicable. All of these can help reduce the negative effects of the associated hormonal fluctuations during this time.

Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential so they can create an individualized plan for managing perimenopause and improving overall well-being during this transitional phase. 

You May Need More Than Just Home Remedies

Lifestyle changes are not always enough to help you eliminate or reduce the signs of menopause that are reducing your quality of life.

Common treatments offered by a menopause specialist include:

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves the use of hormones to alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as estrogen and progesterone. There are various forms of administering this therapy. For example, pills, patches, creams, gels, or vaginal rings, depending on the individual’s specific needs and preferences.

Pellet therapy is a commonly used type of HRT. The treatment involves the use of an implanted pellet. This pellet is about the size of a grain of rice. The pellet delivers customized hormones over an extended period of time. Fortunately, this eliminates the need for daily medication.

The implant is typically placed in the patient’s hip or buttocks and lasts for months. Individualized treatment plans, regular monitoring, and adjustments are essential to ensure the therapy’s safety and effectiveness.

• Medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help manage symptoms like mood swings.
• Vaginal estrogen therapy, available in various forms, is often used to address vaginal dryness and discomfort during menopause.
• Prescription medications may be used in cases where women are encountering particular symptoms such as painful intercourse resulting from vaginal atrophy.

For Hormone Replacement Therapy or Other Perimenopause / Menopause Treatments, Choose The Menopause Center

Your search for the top menopause specialists in Great Falls, Virginia is over now! Come to The Menopause Center in nearby Vienna.

We offer pellet therapy and other treatments to help you live your healthiest life through menopause and beyond, plus provide knowledgeable support throughout your menopausal years. To schedule an appointment, contact us today at 703-991-6806!