Postmenopause refers to the time after a woman's final menstrual period. Typically, a woman is considered to be in postmenopause after she has gone 12 full months without a period. This marks the end of a woman's reproductive years.
The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. This transition time can last several years and is marked by changes in ovulation and menstruation. Common symptoms in perimenopause include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and irregular periods.
Once a woman reaches postmenopause, levels of key hormones like estrogen and progesterone plummet. This leads to changes throughout the body. Some effects of postmenopause include:
- Increased risks for health conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease
- Changes in cholesterol levels
- Vaginal atrophy - thinning of vaginal walls leading to dryness and irritation
- Sleep disruptions and difficulties focusing
- Emotional changes like mood swings or irritability
Managing postmenopause often involves lifestyle measures like regular exercise, stress reduction, and healthy eating. Many women also choose to take
hormone therapy to relieve troublesome symptoms.
Low-dose estrogen and progestin therapy can help minimize hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and bone loss.
Balance Hormone Clinic specializes in perimenopause and postmenopause care. Under the guidance of
Dr. Jane Wells, Balance Hormone Clinic provides customized care including:
- Bioidentical hormone therapy to match a woman's natural hormone balance
- Lifestyle counseling on diet, exercise, and stress management
- Prescriptions for medical devices to improve intimate health
- Ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal treatment
To learn more or make an appointment with Dr. Balance Hormone Clinic helps women smoothly transition into the postmenopausal years for improved
quality of life.