Let’s Talk Menopause

Menopause often sparks questions for women about their health. While most people have heard of menopause, there are actually three stages of menopause. We are here to walk you through what each of these stages entails along with how the team at Women’s Care can help ease the uncertainty and symptoms of each stage. 

The first stage, perimenopause, is the stage leading up to menopause. It is when women start producing less estrogen and when hormone and menstrual cycles begin to change. Usually, women enter this age in their early to mid-40s. This stage can last for around 10 years while the ovaries continue to get smaller and estrogen levels lower. Many women do not notice the changes in the beginning due to the gradual onset but, some symptoms of perimenopause to be aware of are hot flashes, vaginal dryness, irregular periods and mood changes.

Active menopause is considered to be when a woman has stopped having her menstrual cycle for a full year. In this stage, there are many changes that a women’s body goes through. Symptoms include hot flashes, chills, emotional changes, sleep issues and thinning hair. Although women’s bodies go through many adjustments, there are ways to minimize the effects including hormonal therapy, medications, homeopathic remedies and having regular check-ups with your OBGYN. Women’s Care wants to support you through this time. We have the resources and the knowledge to make this changing stage as healthy and reassuring as it can be.

The final stage of menopause, postmenopause, begins after a woman’s period has been gone for at least 12 months. In this stage, many of the effects of menopause get milder or even go away. Typically, this stage begins around the age of 51. Hormone levels and the absence of a period continue in this phase. Exercising and eating healthy is an important way to help your body stay consistent in this phase. Women in this stage are at increased risk for osteoporosis and heart disease as well as insomnia, weight changes, depression, changes in sex drive and more. It is important to have regular appointments with your doctor during this time to ensure your health stays on track and your body and mental health are being supported in the best way possible.

No matter what stage of menopause you may be in, it is important to continue regular visits with your doctor. Women’s Care is here to support you through each stage and offer you the care you deserve. We are happy to answer your questions and provide you with the resources to transition through each stage in the best way possible. Contact our office today to allow us to answer your questions and support you through the stages of menopause.