Menopause symptoms are a common occurrence for women going through the change of life. During a woman’s 40s and 50s, her body produces fewer hormones, and she stops having periods.
Although some women sail through menopause and perimenopause (the time before menopause) without any symptoms, many women experience some types of menopause-related discomforts.
Here at Associates in Women’s Health in Cincinnati, our team of care providers recognizes that menopause is a normal part of life. We also realize that for some women, menopause symptoms can interfere with their work, personal relationships, and everyday happiness.
Our providers want to help you get your menopause symptoms under control. Read on to learn about some of the available treatment options.
The following are some of the most common menopause symptoms:
Fortunately, there are treatments available to address many of these symptoms.
HRT helps relieve some types of menopause-related symptoms by replacing hormones that are produced at lower levels during perimenopause and menopause.
Depending on the types of symptoms you have, your provider may recommend estrogen-only hormone therapy or estrogen and progestin therapy.
There are two types of HRT: systemic and local. Systemic HRT is taken in the form of a pill, skin patch, gel, or spray that affects your entire system. It tends to help with wide-ranging symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, and mood changes.
Local HRT is used in the vaginal area to help with local symptoms such as vaginal dryness and urinary symptoms. It is delivered via a vaginal cream, ring, or tablet.
If HRT isn’t the right option, your provider can recommend other ways to deal with menopause symptoms.
For example, if you’re experiencing mood changes, you may benefit from low-dose antidepressants. If you have sleep problems, reducing stress or making changes to your bedroom or your schedule may help.
In addition, your provider may recommend vitamin supplements or natural products for symptom management.
Lifestyle changes, such as relaxation, yoga, meditation, exercise, and changes to your diet may also provide relief. Pelvic floor exercises (known as Kegels) can help with problems such as some types of urinary incontinence.
For women with vaginal dryness, some types of urinary incontinence, or discomfort during intercourse, treatment with the MonaLisa Touch™ Vaginal Laser can provide relief by generating new collagen and increasing moisture within the vaginal walls.
If you have menopause symptoms, we can help. Our providers meet with you to evaluate your symptoms and your overall health and to recommend a customized treatment plan that fits your needs. Schedule an evaluation by calling our office at 513-794-1500 or requesting an appointment today.
