Menopause Counseling & Treatment Options

During the period of time leading up to menopause, your body undergoes significant changes that can affect nearly every aspect of your life. The OBGYNs at Women's Medical Center in Dothan, AL share some information that can help you cope with your symptoms.

It's not your imagination

As many as 10 years before your periods stop, you may begin to experience the changes associated with perimenopause, such as:

• Hot flashes
• Mood swings
• Night sweats
• Breast tenderness
• Worsening PMS symptoms
• Dry, itchy skin
• Hair loss
• Fatigue
• Irregular periods
• Vaginal dryness
• Insomnia
• Decreased sex drive
• Painful intercourse
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Short-term memory problems

The severity of these symptoms can vary from woman to woman. Some lucky women barely have any symptoms, while others experience considerable discomfort during these years.

How can my Dothan OBGYN help?

Getting through the day can be difficult if you suffer from hot flashes, fatigue, irritability and other unpleasant symptoms. Your OBGYN can help you deal with the changes that accompany the perimenopausal and menopausal years and offer suggestions and treatments that can reduce or relieve your symptoms.

In many cases, lifestyle changes, such as starting a regular exercise program, can reduce some common menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes and weight gain. Exercise improves heart health, lessen stress and anxiety, and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Your doctor can also offer advice about sexual issues, weight gain and other common issues and recommend vitamin supplements that will help you stay healthy, such as B vitamins and calcium.

If your symptoms persist or are severe, your OBGYN can offer hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and other medications that will provide some relief. Although many women are concerned about the potential drawbacks of estrogen treatment, the risk of cancer can be reduced by using the lowest helpful HRT dosage or using low-dose transdermal types of estrogen.

Lifestyle changes and medications can make dealing with menopausal symptoms much easier. If you're concerned about troublesome menopausal symptoms, the doctors at Women's Medical Center in Dothan, AL can offer solutions that will make a difference in your life. Call them at (334) 793-3900 to schedule an appointment.