Menopause

Menopause is when periods stop due to lower hormone levels. This usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55.

It can sometimes happen earlier naturally. Or for reasons such as surgery to remove the ovaries (oophorectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy), cancer treatments like chemotherapy, or a genetic reason. Sometimes the reason is unknown.

Perimenopause is when the woman has symptoms before her periods have stopped. She reaches the menopause when you have not had a period for 12 months.

Common Symptoms of the menopause and the perimenopause

Menopause and perimenopause symptoms can have a big impact on women’s life, including relationships, social and family life and work.

Changes to the periods:

The first sign of the perimenopause is usually but not always a change in the normal pattern of periods as they may become irregular. Eventually the periods will stop altogether.

Mental Health Symptoms:

Common symptoms are mood changes, anxiety, low self-esteem, problems with memory and concentration.

Physical Symptoms:

Hot flushes, night sweats, sleeping difficulties and irritability, headache, migraine, palpitations. Muscle pain, changes in body shape and weight gain.

Dry skin, vaginal dryness and pain during sex and low sex drive. Recurrent vaginal and urinary infections.

Treatment

Full consultation and examination by an experienced gynaecologist should be done before starting any treatments. Blood tests may not be necessary.

Hormonal treatment includes oestrogen only for patients who had hysterectomy, oestrogen and progestogens for patients who still have a uterus. Testosterone may be added as well if libido is low.

If you or any of your friends or clients suffer from these symptoms, please text me on 07484 676793 to book her a consultation in Manchester, London or North Wales.

Dr. F. Gendy, Consultant Gynaecologist