Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Menopause is a natural part of aging that every woman experiences, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. It marks the end of menstruation and reproductive years, but the journey through menopause can bring with it a wide array of symptoms that impact physical, emotional, and mental well-being. At Katie Ostrom MD, LLC, we believe that understanding menopause and its treatments is key to helping women navigate this life transition with ease and confidence.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is defined as the point when a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period. This occurs due to a decrease in the production of estrogen and progesterone, two key hormones in regulating the reproductive system. The stages of menopause include:

•          Perimenopause: This transitional phase can begin several years before menopause. Women may experience irregular periods, hormonal fluctuations, and symptoms like hot flashes.

•          Menopause: This marks the official cessation of menstruation, confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a period.

•          Postmenopause: The years after menopause, during which symptoms can ease for some, while others may continue to experience lingering effects.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

While every woman’s experience is different, common symptoms of menopause include:

•          Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Sudden feelings of heat, often followed by chills, are one of the most common symptoms.

•          Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or frequent waking can become common due to hormonal changes.

•          Mood Swings: Anxiety, depression, and irritability are often linked to fluctuating hormone levels.

•          Vaginal Dryness and Discomfort: Decreased estrogen can lead to dryness, irritation, and discomfort during intercourse.

•          Loss of Bone Density: Estrogen helps maintain bone strength, and its decrease can lead to a higher risk of osteoporosis.

•          Cognitive Changes: Memory lapses and difficulty concentrating are often reported.

Causes of Menopause

The primary cause of menopause is the natural decline in reproductive hormones. As women age, their ovaries produce less estrogen and progesterone, which leads to the end of ovulation and menstruation. Other factors that can lead to early menopause include:

•          Surgical Menopause: Removal of the ovaries during a hysterectomy can cause immediate menopause.

•          Chemotherapy or Radiation Therapy: Cancer treatments can affect ovarian function, potentially causing early menopause.

•          Genetics: Family history can influence the age at which menopause begins.

Treatments for Managing Menopause

While menopause is a natural process, treatments are available to help manage its symptoms. At Katie Ostrom MD, LLC, we offer personalized treatment options that address the unique needs of each woman during this transition.

Hormone Replacement Therapy is one of the most effective treatments for managing menopausal symptoms. HRT works by supplementing the body with estrogen and sometimes progesterone, helping to balance hormone levels and alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. HRT also helps maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

There are two main types of HRT:

•          Estrogen-only HRT: Suitable for women who have had a hysterectomy, this treatment helps replenish the body's estrogen levels.

•          Combined HRT: Women who still have their uterus will receive a combination of estrogen and progesterone to protect the lining of the womb.

HRT can be administered in various forms, including pills, patches, creams, gels, and vaginal rings. The choice of method depends on individual needs, lifestyle, and health risks, which will be thoroughly discussed during consultation.

For women experiencing vaginal dryness, discomfort, and urinary incontinence due to menopause, non-invasive laser therapy offers an innovative solution. Laser therapy stimulates collagen production and tissue regeneration in the vaginal area, helping to restore moisture, elasticity, and overall vaginal health.

This treatment is safe, painless, and requires no downtime, making it a convenient option for women looking to alleviate the discomforts associated with menopausal changes. It’s especially helpful for those who may not be candidates for HRT or who prefer a non-hormonal treatment option.

Choosing the Right Treatment for You

At Katie Ostrom MD, LLC, we understand that every woman’s journey through menopause is unique. We offer a personalized approach to menopause management, helping women explore their options, including HRT, laser therapy, and lifestyle modifications. A comprehensive consultation will help determine the best treatment plan to address your specific symptoms and health concerns.

If you’re experiencing menopausal symptoms, contact Katie Ostrom MD, LLC to discuss your treatment options and take the first step towards feeling like yourself again. Contact our office in Homer, Alaska, by calling (907) 435-0555 to book an appointment today.