Menopause
Menopause is the permanent shutting down of the female reproductive system. This occurs a considerable length of time before the end of the lifespan. Menopause is triggered either naturally or as a result of surgical removal of both ovaries. Hormonal changes, loss of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone, are often the cause of physical symptoms associated with menopause.
Osteoporosis, the weakening of bones, can result from a loss of hormones during menopause.
Vaginal bleeding can occur following menopause. This can be a sign of more serious conditions and should be checked immediately by your provider.
Pain with intercourse can occur due to the decrease in estrogen’s effect on the vagina.
A hot flash or flush refers to the spontaneous sensation of warmth, often associated with perspiration, resulting from the body’s response to declining estrogen levels. Nightsweats are hot flashes or flushes occurring at night, often while sleeping.
Other symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, sleep disturbance, mood symptoms, cognitive disturbances, somatic complaints, urinary complaints, uterine bleeding problems, and sexual dysfunction can be attributed to the menopausal transition.
Some common treatments include:
- Estrogens
- Progestins
- Androgens
- Antidepressants
- Phytoestrogens such as soy
- Complementary, herbal and alternative medicine
- Behavioral interventions
Visit the North American Menopause Society(NAMS) for more information, and we are proud to announce our Nurse Practitioner Ilene Alt is one of the few NAMS certified practitioners in New York.
