Let’s Talk About Menopause

It will inevitably happen to everyone with a uterus … so why don’t we talk about it? Menopause is a fact of life, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy or that you won’t have questions. At Cheyenne OBGYN, we care for all generations of women, from daughters to granddaughters. Today, let’s talk about what menopause can look like.

The term may be thrown around less, but perimenopause refers to the period of transition to menopause. This can begin as early as the mid-30s and typically lasts about four years. Symptoms can include menstrual irregularity, sometimes skipping periods altogether. If you experience more than 60 days between periods, you are likely in late perimenopause.

Many symptoms caused by perimenopause originate from the fluctuation of hormones. As the body approaches menopause, the production of estrogen and progesterone changes. Menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms are caused by a decreasing amount of estrogen. Hot flashes are also a common occurrence. Those in perimenopause can experience them and the sleep problems that result.

Menopause is when your period stops permanently, and you no longer have the ability to get pregnant. At this point, the ovaries stop releasing eggs. Most women go through this between 45-58 years of age, with the average age being 51.

When you’re going through perimenopause and menopause, it’s important to talk to your health care provider about it. Menopausal women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis, obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Your doctor may also have suggestions on how to alleviate some of the symptoms.

Eat foods high in calcium, protein, and vitamin D and continue to take care of your health by eating well and exercising. This can help prevent bone deterioration. Try to avoid eating foods that are high in sugar or are spicy and avoid caffeine and alcohol. These items can trigger hot flashes, night sweats, or mood swings. Of course, continue to drink water. Many women experience dryness as a result of decreased estrogen levels. Water can help to prevent that feeling and prevent weight gain and bloating.

Post menopause typically occurs about 2-3 years after your last period. At this point, the symptoms will begin to subside and fade away altogether.

Please continue to see your doctor throughout menopause and once you enter post menopause. If you are wanting more relief from perimenopausal symptoms, Cheyenne OBGYN does offer BioTE. This hormone replacement therapy can help to balance out your hormones, which are often at fluctuating levels during this time. Call us at 307-634-5216 to learn more about BioTE or talk to one of our providers about menopause. You can also visit our website at https://cheyenneobgyn.com/treatment-options/biote-hormone-therapy/ to learn more about this hormone replacement therapy.