Menopause Specialist

How do I know if I'm in menopause?

Menopause is officially defined as the end of your menstrual cycle, usually 12 months after your last period has occurred. It can happen any time in your 40s or 50s, although 51 is the average age for American women. In most cases, you'll know you're approaching menopause when you begin to experience the following symptoms:

• Irregular periods
• Night sweats
• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Weight gain due to slowed metabolism
• Dry skin; thinning hair
• Mood changes
• Insomnia
• Breast changes, loss of breast fullness

The period leading up to complete cessation of your menstrual periods is known as perimenopause. It's possible, although unlikely, for you to become pregnant during perimenopause.

What medications, including HRT, can I use to relieve my symptoms?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most common treatment for menopause symptoms. Depending on your medical history, your doctor may recommend treatment with different forms of estrogen and sometimes progestin, if you still have your uterus.

Other menopause medications may include certain low dose antidepressants, which may help with hot flashes in women for whom HRT is not recommended. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to prevent osteoporosis. Some women have also turned to bioidentical hormones, considering them a more natural approach to hormone replacement therapy.

What can I do at home to manage menopause symptoms?

Fortunately, menopause symptoms are only temporary, but you can still take steps to reduce their effects on your health and well-being:

• Avoid hot beverages, caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods if these trigger hot flashes.
• Use water-based vaginal moisturizers, such as Replens to decrease discomfort.
• Avoid preparations with glycerine, as many women are sensitive to it.
• Practice Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles.
• Exercise regularly to reduce stress and ward off conditions, such as heart disease and osteoporosis that are associated with aging.
• Learn relaxation techniques, such as yoga, to help manage symptoms.
• Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, and healthy fats.
• Ask your doctor about vitamin D supplements.

Some women have experimented with alternative remedies, such as acupuncture or dietary supplements. Ask your doctor before taking any herbal supplements, however, as these may interfere with other medications you currently take or even put your health at risk.