SERVICES MENOPAUSE
Menopause is a transition into a new phase or chapter of life where a woman stops getting her periods for 12 consecutive months. Menopause usually begins between the ages of 40 and 50 years old, but it may occur earlier for some people due to medical conditions.
Menopause is caused by:
- Low levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones in your body.
- Depending on your age and the type and location of treatment, treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy may temporarily or permanently cause your ovaries to stop working.
- A hysterectomy is an operation done to remove a woman’s uterus due to uterine fibroids that are causing pain or bleeding.
What are the related symptoms?
During menopause, various physical and mental changes may occur, which may cause symptoms such as:
- Lower fertility due to low levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones
- Irregular or abnormal menstruation where periods occur less regularly
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort
- Hot flashes
- Sleep disturbances due to night sweats and an increased need to urinate
- Emotional changes such as depression, anxiety and low mood
What are the treatment options?
Menopause is a transition that may cause unwanted physical and mental changes, such as gaining weight and trouble focusing or learning. Dr Victor may recommend the following:
Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is used to help balance your body’s hormone levels by providing supplemental estrogen and synthetic progesterone hormone. This is administered in different forms, such as skin patches and topical creams.
Medication for osteoporosis
These are vitamin D supplements to help strengthen your bones. There are different medications to prevent bone breakdown and increase new healthy bone formation.
Vaginal estrogen
This treatment is administered directly into the vagina using a vaginal cream or a tablet, to relieve vaginal dryness and discomfort. The vaginal tissues then absorb it.
Low-dose antidepressants
such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’s) may help reduce menopausal hot flashes.
