While some women go through menopause and experience only mild symptoms, others face more intense challenges that last anywhere from a few months to several years. At Northeast Georgia Physicians Group OB/GYN, we specialize in treatment and clarity into what’s happening in your body, which will help you feel more in control during this time of change.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
For most women in the United States, menopause typically begins in their 40s and 50s, with the average age being 51. This natural transition in a woman’s life marks the end of menstrual cycles and can bring about a wide range of physical and emotional changes. Symptoms may include:
- Irregular periods
- Complete cessation of menstruation
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Sleep disruption
- Mood swings
- Weight gain
- Thinning or dryness of hair
- Changes in sex drive
What causes menopause?
Menopause is a natural decline in hormone production in women as they age. At this time, your ovaries begin producing less of the hormone estrogen and the balance of hormones in your body changes. Natural menopause typically begins in women 40 to 50 years old and progresses as they age.
Premature or early menopause in the occurrence of menopause in women under 40. In these cases, there are often underlying issues that are causing the hormonal changes early such as autoimmune disorders, genetic issues and infections.
How is menopause treated?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a hormone-based treatment that uses estrogen and progestin to relieve menopause symptoms.
At NGPG OB/GYN, our program offers specialized expertise in anti-aging medicine, focusing on a holistic approach in addition to hormone replacement therapy. We start by testing your hormone levels, then we continue to monitor symptoms and your health on an ongoing basis to ensure that you can maintain the best quality of life.
Testing for hormones is done through a blood spot or saliva test. Once the results are in, your provider will develop a hormone treatment plan for each patient. Their goal is safe, effective dosing to maintain a lasting, steady state.
What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is for women in the pre-menopause and menopause stages of life. Bioidentical hormones are plant based, made from wild yams, and are chemically compounded to match the hormones of the human body.
The hormones are given through the skin in the form of a transdermal cream or troche (a lozenge that dissolves under the tongue).
If you are considering BHRT or are already participating in the therapy, here are a few things to note:
- The hormone cream works on a 1 to 25-day cycle.
- Use your prescription at night only.
- NOS stands for “never on Sundays”. Your body needs a break for natural hormone receptors to recharge.
- Call your doctor with any questions you may have.
Choose NGPG for Menopause & Aging Treatment
NGPG OB/GYN offers hormone replacement therapy to help women manage the often-uncomfortable symptoms of menopause. Our specialists are experienced in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, a plant-based, effective treatment option to help balance estrogen and progestin in menopausal women. If you or a loved one are struggling to deal with your menopause symptoms, you can rely on NGPG OB/GYN for expert care.