Menopause is a natural transition that all women experience as they reach middle age. It signals the end of a woman's reproductive years and is defined as occurring 12 months after a woman's last menstrual cycle. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. This transition time can last up to 10 years as hormone levels fluctuate erratically.
The average age for menopause in the United States is 51. However, it can occur earlier or later, between the ages of 40-55. Premature menopause affects about 1% of women under age 40.
The declining estrogen levels that occur during perimenopause and menopause cause a variety of symptoms that can significantly disrupt a woman's quality of life. Proper treatment and support can help women manage symptoms and transition smoothly.
Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause vary widely, and no two women have exactly the same experience. Some common signs and symptoms include:
For some women, symptoms are mild and quite manageable. But for others, they can be severe and disruptive to everyday life. The good news is that safe and effective treatment options are available.
Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining bone density. During menopause, declining estrogen causes bones to lose density faster, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. About 30% of postmenopausal women have osteoporosis.
Lower estrogen after menopause also leads to unhealthy cholesterol changes. This can increase plaque buildup in arteries. Women lose key heart protections after menopause and heart disease death rates increase.
Managing health risks is an essential part of menopause care. We offer bone density testing, cholesterol screening, and programs to improve heart health.
Every woman has a unique menopause experience based on her health history and risk factors. We take the time to understand your needs and goals. Then we develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your symptoms and long term health.
Plans may include:
- Estrogen therapy - Low-dose bioidentical hormones - Compounded hormone therapy - Testosterone for some women
- Tailored nutrition advice - Personalized fitness plans - Stress reduction techniques - Wellness coaching
- Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants - Non-hormonal medications - Alternative medicine options
We also provide testing and monitoring to ensure treatments are safe and effective. This includes lab work, mammograms, bone density scans and more based on your risks.
The goal is to help you thrive during this transition and beyond!
We understand the profoundly personal nature of menopause. No two experiences are alike. We believe every woman deserves personalized care backed by the best medical standards.
That's why we take time to listen and address your unique situation. We go beyond just managing symptoms by optimizing wellness during the transition. And we focus on the long view of protecting future health.
You can expect compassionate, evidence-based care with clear explanations each step of the way. We empower women with knowledge and support so they can make the best decisions for their bodies and lives.
Our warm, skilled team includes:
We offer comprehensive menopause management services including:
We also provide routine gynecology care, sexual health services, and general health management for women over 40.
Studies show that practicing yoga can help relieve many symptoms of menopause. Specific poses that gently stretch and strengthen muscles, regulate breathing, and reduce stress have been found to ease hot flashes, mood swings, trouble sleeping, and joint pain for many women going through menopause without the need for hormone therapy.
If you're struggling through perimenopause or menopause, we can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Explore your treatment options with a caring, knowledgeable partner by your side. We'll listen and craft an integrated plan just for you.
The coming years hold exciting possibilities. With proper care, this transition can be smooth and empowering. Be good to yourself. You deserve to enjoy life to the fullest!
