Menopause and Perimenopause

Menopause and Perimenopause

Menopause may be a natural, but for some women it can cause symptoms that really affect your daily life!

The years leading up to menopause are called the perimenopause or the menopausal transition. This is when most women experience those infamous hot flashes and more. Hormonal changes typically begin in the 40’s with a gradual decline in estrogen and progesterone eventually causing your periods to stop. Once you haven’t had a cycle for 1 year you are menopausal.

Here are some of the most common symptoms of perimenopause/menopause:

  • Changes in your menstrual cycle
  • Increased PMS
  • Hot flashes
  • Night sweats

  • Irritability or moodiness

  • Poor sleep quality
  • Painful sexual intercourse
  • The constant need to urinate
  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain
  • Depression
  • Forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)
  • Facial hair growth

The perimenopause experience of everyone is different. There is no “cure” for menopause but there are plenty of options to help you with bothersome symptoms.

These include:

  • Hormone replacement therapy

  • Certain medications for hot flashes/sleep problems

  • Antidepressants for mood changes

  • Vaginal lubricants

  • Non hormonal natural therapy

  • Alternative therapies (acupuncture, homeopathy etc.)

  • Diet and exercise

  • Hormone replacement therapy both bioidentical and synthetic

Dr. Karmel is very familiar with all of the different options. At Karmel Women’s Care, we work with each patient as a team to tailor a unique approach to menopause that works for you!