Menopause

Menopause

Menopause occurs gradually over months to years and symptoms can vary. Approximately 37 million women between the ages of 45 to 55 are currently in menopause in the United States. St. Luke’s has experts who understand and can help your individual needs.

The Menopause Process

Menopause is often not a sudden event. For many women, it occurs gradually over months to years before one is actually in menopause.

Perimenopause starts when you begin having menopause symptoms and can last up to 10 years. During perimenopause you will still have periods and can still become pregnant.

Menopause occurs naturally when your ovaries start making less estrogen and progesterone. This results in reduced hormone levels and causes your ovaries to stop producing eggs and your periods to stop. Menopause is considered complete when you have not had a period for one year.

Postmenopause occurs when you have not had a period for one year. This indicates your ovaries are no longer releasing eggs. You cannot become pregnant once you are postmenopausal.

Top 10 Menopause Signs & Symptoms

1. Excessive sweating during night/sleep disorders
2. Hot flashes
3. Vaginal dryness, discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse/loss of libido
4. Weight gain/loss of fitness
5. Skin changes
6. Mood swings
7. Fatigue
8. Genitourinary problems (issues that affect the urinary and genital tracts)
9. Brain fog
10. Loss of interest in life

St. Luke’s Natural Approach to Menopause

St. Luke’s approach to caring for you during menopause is more natural and tailored to your specific needs than many other approaches. In most cases, you and your doctor will discuss your medical history in detail, including your symptoms, your diet, exercise and sleep patterns and your family history. You will undergo a series of hormone tests and update other important tests such as a mammogram and Pap smear. Your risk for hormone use will be assessed and any alternatives such as herbs and botanicals will be discussed. Specific recommendations for diet, exercise and nutritional supplements will be made, and you will be scheduled for close and careful follow up to provide maximum benefit and the highest quality care.

Note: Someone will respond to your request within 48 business hours. If you believe that you have a medical emergency, please contact 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.