What is menopause?
Menopause is a normal biological process that marks the end of your menstrual cycles. This phase of every woman’s life doesn’t happen all at once, but involves a transition that may last several years. You officially reach menopause once you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual period.
The transitional phase leading up to menopause is called perimenopause. While you’re going through perimenopause, your hormone levels fluctuate and you may not ovulate every month. This can lead to irregular periods, including:
- Skipping a few months between periods
- Having shorter or longer menstrual cycles
- Having lighter or heavier periods
Even if your periods are irregular and you believe you’re in perimenopause, it’s still possible to get pregnant. Once you reach menopause and your periods stop permanently, you can no longer get pregnant.
When does menopause happen?
Menopause can occur anytime in your 40s or 50s, but the average age in the United States is 52. Perimenopause typically begins in your mid- to late 40s and lasts an average of four years before reaching menopause.
What are common menopause symptoms?
This transition is different for every woman, but you may experience the following common signs and symptoms during the years leading up to menopause:
- Irregular periods
- Vaginal dryness
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
What are complications of menopause?
It’s important to continue seeing Dr. Berman for wellness exams after your menstrual cycle ends because menopause increases your risk of several medical conditions, such as:
- Heart disease
- Osteoporosis
- Stroke
- Urinary incontinence
- Weight gain
- Sexual dysfunction
How do you diagnose and treat menopause?
Typically, Dr. Berman can tell if you’re in perimenopause or menopause by asking questions about your symptoms and menstrual periods. In some cases, she may check your hormone levels with a blood test.
Then, she works with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique concerns. This may include hormonal or nonhormonal remedies, such as:
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Bioidentical hormones
- Non-hormonal medications to reduce your symptoms
- MonaLisa Touch® for vaginal dryness and incontinence
- Counseling on lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and relaxation techniques
If you’re looking for a women’s health expert to guide you through menopause, call Dr. Berman or book an appointment online today.
