Menopause

What is menopause?

Menopause is a natural transition that most women experience in their late 40s or early 50s as their bodies enter the end of the reproductive years. During this time, hormone levels fluctuate and decline, signaling the end of menstruation.

Some key things to know:

• The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. This is when women may start noticing irregular periods or other symptoms as estrogen levels begin to vary.


• The average age for menopause is 51, but it can happen anywhere between 40-55 years old. There is no way to delay it.


• Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, mood changes, and slowing metabolism. However, severity varies dramatically.

Menopause is diagnosed after 12 months without a menstrual cycle. Once confirmed, women are considered postmenopausal.

This transition can present women with unique health risks to be aware of:

• Bone loss can accelerate during menopause, leading to osteoporosis and fracture risks later in life. Getting adequate calcium and vitamin D is important.


• Heart disease risk increases after menopause as well. Managing blood pressure/cholesterol and maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps minimize this.

The good news? Menopause is 100% natural and not a disease! While symptoms may be bothersome for some, there are many treatment options available today to help manage this transition.

For example, hormone therapy with estrogen can effectively treat hot flashes, night sweats, bone loss, and vaginal atrophy. The specialists at Equilibrium Hormone Institute can meet with you to customize a plan based on your needs and risk factors. Other options like low-dose antidepressants, supplements, bioidentical hormones, lifestyle changes, and treating underlying conditions can also provide relief.

The bottom line? Every woman's experience is unique. Working with a doctor that listens and understands this natural transition is key to developing an optimal treatment plan. With an individualized approach, most women can pass through menopause smoothly and enter the next phase of life feeling healthy and strong.

Their compassionate team can answer your questions, run needed tests, and help create a tailored treatment plan so you can feel your best during this transition.