Depression, libido loss, hot flashes, and other menopause symptoms typically start at around the age of 52 and continue for at least a few years. With the help of the obstetrics and gynecology specialists at Cary OB/GYN in Morrisville and Cary, North Carolina, you can get the menopause support you need to feel comfortable — and more like yourself again. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at the office nearest you.
Menopause Q & A
What is menopause?
Menopause is the end of your childbearing years. Most women start menopause in their early 50s, but it can start as early as your 30s or as late as your 60s. Menopause lasts for at least several years for most women. When you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months, you’re through menopause.
What are the signs of menopause?
There are many different menopause symptoms, including erratic menstrual periods. You may have a very heavy period for a few months in a row, followed by no period for another few months. This erratic cycle can continue throughout menopause. Other common symptoms can include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Thinning hair
- Decrease in libido
- Depression and anxiety
- Mood swings
- Insomnia
- Weight gain
- Brain fog
There are a number of other possible symptoms, as well. Some women experience a loss of breast tissue or other body changes, too.
How can I relieve menopause symptoms?
Menopause symptoms can be quite frustrating. If you’re miserable with menopause symptoms, your Cary OB/GYN care provider can help in a variety of ways.
Hormone replacement
Hormone replacement can help with all menopause symptoms. There are multiple forms of hormone replacement, including pills, patches, and insertable vaginal rings. There are also topical estrogen creams for vaginal symptoms like dryness and poor elasticity.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants can help with emotional symptoms like depression and anxiety. They’re also effective in preventing vasomotor (blood vessel) symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.
Other prescription medications
Gabapentin or clonidine medications can be quite effective in controlling hot flashes. If you’re already taking hormone replacements, you might not need these medications. But, if you don’t need hormone replacements and your main symptom is hot flashes, this may be a good option.
Lifestyle changes might also help. For example, layering clothes, so you can shed them when you have hot flashes, or keeping the temperature in your bedroom extra-cool at night.
The Cary OB/GYN team completely understands that menopause is a difficult time if you don’t have help, so they’re ready to support you with excellent symptom relief solutions. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at the office nearest you.
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