Information
Menopause is the stage of a woman’s life when ovarian function ceases or the ovaries are surgically removed. Colloquially, this period is referred to as “the change.” From a medical perspective, menopause begins shortly before the last menstrual period and lasts for up to one year after menopause. The course and symptoms of menopause vary from woman to woman, which is why we take an individualized approach at GYN MEDICO. Some women are fortunate enough to experience this change only as the cessation of regular monthly bleeding, but about 75% of women suffer from acute menopausal syndrome to varying degrees. Hormone replacement therapy can be a way to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms associated with menopause. If menopause or other changes caused by a drop in estrogen levels are a concern for you, we would be happy to discuss treatment options with you. Our doctors are constantly updating their knowledge in their field and are always up to date on the latest trends in managing menopausal symptoms.
What Changes Does Menopause Bring?
The cessation of ovarian function means that the ovaries stop producing the female hormone estrogen. As a result of estrogen deficiency in the body, all women experience a loss of skin elasticity and gradual atrophy of the mucous membranes (not only) of the reproductive organs. It can therefore be said that the aging process accelerates after menopause. With the end of the fertile period, the ovaries also stop producing androgens, which reduces vitality and libido.
Acute menopausal syndrome, which affects most women to some degree, brings with it difficulties caused by disturbances in vascular tone, such as hot flashes and sweating. Mental changes, sleep disturbances, irritability, depression, anxiety, and lack of concentration may occur. The menopausal transition may also be accompanied by heart palpitations, joint pain, or a loss of interest in sex.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy alleviates the acute symptoms associated with menopause through the administration of hormones. A wide range of medications is available on the market, varying in composition, route of administration (pills, implants, etc.), and dosage of the active ingredient. Hormone replacement therapy has beneficial effects in slowing skin sagging and atrophy of the mucous membranes of the genitourinary system, and it positively influences bone metabolism, thereby helping to prevent osteoporosis. It can also positively influence acute symptoms such as hot flashes, insomnia, or mood changes.
Individualized Approach
Hormone therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution for every woman going through menopause. Medication must be prescribed for a valid reason, and the decision to start hormone therapy requires a doctor’s professional opinion. At the GYN MEDICO clinic, we will tailor your treatment to your specific needs. We take an individualized approach to treating menopause-related symptoms, and the therapy depends, among other things, on your specific symptoms, age, presence of the uterus, mammography results, family history of disease, duration of hormone use, and your preferences. If it turns out that postmenopausal hormone therapy is not suitable for you, we will be happy to discuss alternatives with you. For example, certain natural products that alleviate the symptoms of menopause are popular and quite effective.
