Menopause Support

Menopause, officially defined as 12 months without a menstrual cycle or period bleeding–without any other obvious cause (like certain kinds of contraception), may happen at different ages for everyone with a uterus. Sometimes it can be caused by illness or surgery, including some cancer treatments or oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries), but most people find their menstrual cycles cease naturally between the ages of 40-60, when the body stops preparing to release an egg from the ovaries. In the U.S. the average age of menopause is 51. 

 

Many people will experience a span of months or years before they are officially “in menopause” where their periods begin to change: becoming less regular, less heavy, erratic or inconsistent, or sometimes more heavy or more frequent. This phase of “perimenopause” can last for many years, sometimes starting as early as the mid-30s, and can also include many of the same symptoms as menopause (see below).

 

 

With changing or decreasing menstrual cycles, and especially when they stop altogether, hormone levels fluctuate and the body may no longer be producing the same amount of estrogen or progesterone that it has since puberty. This can result in a wide variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, emotional dysregulation or mood changes, disrupted sleep, night sweats, low energy, irregular periods, vaginal dryness or sexual dysfunction, lower libido, and “brain fog” like trouble finding words or remembering.

 

After menopause and with hormone loss, there may also be increased risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, urinary incontinence or loss of bladder control, and weight gain or cholesterol changes. It’s also important to continue regular healthcare and preventative screenings, including tests for breast cancer or cervical cancer, until your doctor notifies you otherwise.

 

Some clients find support and relief with hormone therapy, also referred to as hormone-replacement therapy, by medically supplementing estrogen and/or other hormones. But hormone therapy may not be appropriate for everyone: there may be associated risks or side effects that vary by age, health history, and type of treatment – so it’s important to discuss your condition carefully with a healthcare professional. There are other treatments available if hormone therapy is not right or safe for you.

 

At KBFPC, our caring providers will help you review your menstrual history, discuss any complaints or problematic symptoms you’re experiencing, request testing if necessary, and can recommend a regimen of supplementary hormones and other therapies or lifestyle changes to help you feel more in balance, and more like yourself again!