When does menopause occur?
Menopause is that time in your life when your monthly menstrual cycles come to an end and you can no longer have children. Usually, this stage of life occurs around age 50, although you can certainly go through menopause in your late 40s, too.
During perimenopause (the time before menopause occurs), it’s normal to start having irregular periods and symptoms associated with menopause. Sometimes these issues can start in your late 30s. Medical experts technically define the onset of menopause as going 12 months without having a menstrual period.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
One of the most notorious symptoms of menopause is recurring hot flashes when a sensation of overbearing heat comes out of nowhere. And just as quickly as it comes, it fades away and you have the chills. Menopause is also known for causing:
- Vaginal dryness
- Decreased libido (sexual dysfunction)
- Unexplained weight gain
- Overly dry skin
- Thinning hair
- Mood swings
- Decreased energy
- Loss of breast fullness
Even if you’re perimenopausal or still having occasional periods, you could potentially become pregnant. Until you’ve been diagnosed with menopause, it’s important to continue talking with Dr. Patel about birth control.
Is there treatment for menopause symptoms?
Absolutely! Dr. Patel and the caring team at Borger Obstetrics and Gynecology know how frustrating it can be to experience all the unbearable symptoms and side effects associated with menopause.
During your menopause evaluation, the team creates a treatment plan based on your hormone levels and history of symptoms. Common menopause treatments often involve a series of different treatments to see what works best for you, such as:
- Vaginal estrogen cream
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), including BioTE®
- Low-dose antidepressants
- Prescriptions to reduce hot flashes
Dr. Patel proudly offers BioTE® pellet therapy. This revolutionary bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) involves implanting pellets in your body. Your system gradually absorbs the hormones and symptoms start to resolve — you don’t have to worry about daily medications or creams. BioTE can even last for up to six months at a time.
Get started on your menopause evaluation and treatment at Borger Obstetrics and Gynecology right away. Book your appointment through the convenient online scheduler or call the office.
