What is menopause?
Menopause is a term to describe the natural biological process that happens to a woman when her reproductive hormone levels decline, menstruation stops, and her ability to conceive diminishes. Once you’ve gone a year without your period, you’ve likely entered menopause.
In addition to missed periods, signs and symptoms of menopause may include:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Mood changes
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Vaginal atrophy
- Weight gain
Estrogen plays a key role in reproductive system health and nervous system function, so when levels of the hormone decrease, symptoms associated with estrogen loss increase.
Do I need to see a doctor for menopause?
Menopause is a natural process that doesn’t require medical treatment. However, your gynecologist can help make the transition more comfortable and lessen symptoms if the side effects are bothersome or interfere with daily life.
You should see a provider at the center if you:
- Experience decreased sexual activity due to pain or lowered libido
- Have mood swings that interfere with your relationships or quality of life
- Can’t fall or stay asleep
- Experience urinary incontinence or repeated urinary tract infections
The team at Dr. Gigi Kroll and Dr. Zhanna Pinkus encourages you to bring up your intimate issues, even if you think there’s nothing you can do about them or you’re embarrassed to talk about them. They provide a safe, supportive place to discuss your concerns and may be able to help you in ways you aren’t aware of.
What treatments help reduce the symptoms of menopause?
Your OB/GYN can help you find relief from your particular symptoms based on your health history and preferences. Some of the treatments offered at the center include hormone replacement therapy, medication, and the MonaLisa Touch®.
Hormone Therapy
Estrogen and hormone replacement therapy may help reduce hot flashes and other menopause symptoms. Vaginal creams and rings also enhance sexual and urinary function for many women.
Medication
Some women benefit from a low-dose antidepressant for mood changes and hot flashes during menopause. Your gynecologist may also recommend gabapentin or clonidine for hot flashes and medication to prevent osteoporosis.
MonaLisa Touch
The MonaLisa Touch is a quick laser procedure that encourages collagen restructuring inside the vaginal canal. The treatment enhances vaginal lubrication and tone for many women.
If you experience bothersome symptoms related to menopause, contact Dr. Gigi Kroll and her team online or over the phone to see how they can help.
