MENOPAUSE MANAGEMENT
What is menopause?
Menopause occurs when your period stops permanently. Once you have not had a menstrual period for 12 months, you are considered menopausal. The average age that menopause occurs is 47 but can happen as early as age 40. Many women start experiencing symptoms years prior to the final menstrual period. Other women do not experience symptoms at all.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Common menopausal symptoms include hot flashes, mood changes, anxiety and depression, insomnia or difficulty sleeping, vaginal dryness/irritation, and fatigue. If you experience one or more of these symptoms, medication management could help you feel more comfortable.
Do I have to take medication for menopause?
No! Medications are used only when symptoms are bothersome. Many people do not require medication for menopausal symptoms. Others may choose to take medication depending on their symptoms.
What treatments are used for symptoms of menopause?
Everyone experiences menopausal symptoms differently. The specific treatments used depends on your specific symptoms. Common medications used for menopausal symptom management include SSRIs such as venlafaxine, hormone replacement therapy with estrogen and progesterone, and topical estrogen therapy for vaginal symptoms.
Is lab testing required for the diagnosis of menopause?
Lab testing is not required to diagnose menopause but is sometimes used to help rule out other conditions that cause symptoms similar to menopausal symptoms. Perimenopause or menopause is diagnosed based on the presence of symptoms such as hot flashes combined with menstrual irregularities or absence of menses.