Menopause

Menopause is a natural biological process that can come with annoying symptoms, including hot flashes, weight gain, and mood swings. Board-certified gynecologist Robert L. Martin, MD, has experience caring for and treating women in all stages of maturity, including menopause. If you would like support as you go through this transition, call or book your appointment online with Women’s Health and Wellness of Dallas today.

Menopause Q & A

What is menopause?

Menopause is a normal, natural process that every woman eventually goes through, where the reproductive cycle and monthly periods cease. This process can take months to years and usually concludes when you have not had a period for approximately 12 months.

The age that you begin and conclude menopause, and what that process looks like, is different for every woman. On average, women go through menopause about the age of 50-51, though your symptoms may start much earlier.

There are other reasons for menopause as well. These are related to female conditions that Dr. Martin usually follows closely. These conditions could cause your reproductive cycles to cease and may include:

  • Cancer treatments
  • Hysterectomy
  • Hormonal insufficiency

Regardless of the reason, menopause can be difficult, so experienced support through the process is invaluable.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Symptoms of menopause are related to the decline in hormone production that drives your normal reproductive cycles. When your estrogen and progesterone production decreases, your body responds in several ways.

Some of these symptoms include:

  • Irregular, heavy, or absent periods
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Lack of sexual drive
  • Weight gain
  • Acne
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Mood swings
  • Unwanted hair
  • Hot flashes
  • Trouble focusing

Many symptoms of natural menopause mimic more serious conditions, so discuss your symptoms with Dr. Martin to rule out other issues that need attention.

How do you treat symptoms of menopause?

Because menopause is a natural process, women don’t necessarily see it as a condition that needs treatment. But Dr. Martin understands that these symptoms can significantly affect the well-being and overall quality of life of his female patients, sometimes for years.

In order to ease some of the discomfort that comes with menopause, Dr. Martin may suggest:

  • Hormone replacement therapy
  • Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy
  • Medication
  • Natural supplements
  • Dietary counseling
  • Lifestyle changes
  • Vaginal rejuvenation (Votiva)

Your individualized treatment plan depends on your own symptoms and your health history. Dr. Martin takes the time to explore your options for managing your menopause symptoms to make this transition as easy as possible.

If you would like to talk to Dr. Martin about your own treatment options, call or book your appointment online today.

Women