Menopause Specialist

What is menopause?

Menopause is a time in a woman's life when she stops getting her period. It often occurs after age 45, when the ovaries stop producing progesterone and estrogen. You’ve reached menopause if you haven’t had a period for 12 months. Perimenopause is the transitional period to menopause and can also cause unpleasant symptoms. 

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Common signs and symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause include:

• Vaginal dryness
• Irregular periods
• Chills 
• Night sweats
• Hot flashes
• Mood changes
• Sleeping problems
• Weight gain
• Thinning hair
• Problems concentrating
• Loss of breast fullness
  
  

Complications associated with menopause can include low bone density, osteoporosis, heart disease, urinary incontinence, and sexual dysfunction. 

If you experience these or other symptoms of menopause and desire relief, turn to the Frisco Obstetrics and Gynecology, PA team for effective solutions.

How does my provider diagnose menopause?

To properly diagnose menopause and develop a treatment for unpleasant symptoms, Frisco Obstetrics and Gynecology, PA specialists ask about your symptoms and review your medical history. 

They might complete a pelvic exam and recommend you undergo blood tests, including follicle-stimulating hormone tests or thyroid-stimulating hormone blood tests.

What are menopause symptom treatment options?

Based on your health history and symptoms, your Frisco Obstetrics and Gynecology, PA provider might recommend one of the following treatments:

Hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) helps balance hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, to reduce unpleasant symptoms associated with menopause. HRT is available in the form of pills, patches, and creams.

Antidepressants

Taking low-dose antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can stabilize depression or other mood disorders and may reduce hot flashes.

Vaginal estrogen

Vaginal estrogen, available as creams, rings, or tablets, helps reduce vaginal dryness associated with menopause.

Osteoporosis treatment

If you have low bone density or osteoporosis because of menopause, your Frisco Obstetrics and Gynecology, PA provider might prescribe medications or recommend you take dietary supplements.

Lifestyle changes

Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle can decrease discomfort during menopause. Eat a healthy diet, get regular exercise and plenty of sleep, don’t smoke, and consider relaxation techniques.

Don’t live with unpleasant symptoms associated with menopause when simple treatments are within reach at Frisco Obstetrics and Gynecology, PA. Schedule an appointment by phone or book online today.