Menopause

NOTE:

Peri- and Menopausal consults and follow-up care available to all women, with preference being given to TWC family medicine patients.

No MD referral needed, but encouraged!

Menopause is a natural phase of life where a woman’s body takes a bold step into a new chapter, signaling the end of her reproductive years.

Think of it as a hormonal rollercoaster ride—complete with hot flashes, mood swings, and the occasional night sweat! While this transition comes with its share of symptoms, it’s also an opportunity to embrace change, discover new rhythms, and celebrate the wisdom that comes with experience.

Get ready to navigate this exciting journey with confidence!

We understand that the transition into menopause can bring concerns about increased risks of conditions like cancer, heart disease, strokes, and cognitive changes.

But here’s the good news: you have the power to take charge of your health during this time! By making informed lifestyle choices and prioritizing wellness, we can work together to minimize these risks and embrace this new phase of life with confidence.

Let’s take control and thrive through menopause!

Services at TWC offered as they relate to women going through peri/menopause include:

  • Assessment, and management of perimenopausal symptoms

  • Assessment, and management of postmenopausal symptoms

  • Vaginal Health

  • Contraception in the perimenopause phase

  • Health optimization in the menopause transition and beyond!

MENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS

More about these below!

  • Changes in menstrual cycles (periods)

  • Hot flushes and/or night sweats

  • Vaginal dryness, pain or sexual concerns

  • Bladder issues, incontinence, frequent UTI’s

  • Sleep problems (new/worse with menopause)

  • Mood changes - new or increased anxiety, irritability, depression or low mood

  • New joint pains

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Know Your Risk Factors!

By being aware of these risk factors, women can work closely with their healthcare providers to develop personalized screening and prevention strategies, taking charge of their health during and after menopause.

  • During menopause, women may face an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), which refers to blood clots that can form in the veins, often in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) and can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). This risk is partly due to hormonal changes that affect blood clotting. Understanding the risk factors can help you take proactive steps to protect your health. Key risk factors for VTE during menopause include:

    • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Some forms of HRT can elevate the risk of clotting.

    • Obesity: Excess weight can contribute to increased pressure in the veins, leading to clots.

    • Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can slow blood flow, particularly during long periods of sitting or standing.

    • Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases clotting risk.

    • Family History: A personal or family history of blood clots can heighten your risk.

    • Age: The risk of VTE increases with age, especially for women over 65.

  • During menopause, women may experience an increased risk of heart disease due to hormonal changes that can affect cardiovascular health. As estrogen levels decline, the protective effects on the heart diminish, making it essential to be aware of this risk. Understanding the key risk factors can empower you to take proactive steps to safeguard your heart health. Important risk factors for heart disease during menopause include:

    • High Blood Pressure: Elevated blood pressure can strain the heart and blood vessels.

    • High Cholesterol: Unmanaged cholesterol levels can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries. HRT can have positive impacts on our "bad cholesterol"

    • Obesity: Excess weight increases the risk of heart disease and other related conditions.

    • Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can negatively impact heart health.

    • Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

    • Diabetes: Poorly managed blood sugar levels can lead to heart complications.

    • Family History: A personal or family history of heart disease can elevate your risk (women <65 and men <55 years old).

  • During menopause, women may face an increased risk of breast cancer, making it essential to stay informed about the factors that can influence this risk. Hormonal changes and age are significant contributors, but understanding specific risk factors can empower you to take proactive steps. Key risk factors for breast cancer during menopause include:

    • Age: The risk of breast cancer increases as women get older, especially after age 55 (why we start screening mammo's at 50!).

    • BRCA Gene Mutations: Women with mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes have a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer.

    • Dense Breasts: Women with dense breast tissue (often noted on mammograms - specifically category C & D) may have a higher risk of breast cancer and may benefit from additional screening methods.

    • Obesity: Being overweight, particularly after menopause, can contribute to an increased risk.

    • Alcohol Consumption: Higher alcohol intake is linked to an elevated risk of breast cancer.

    • Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can negatively impact overall health and increase cancer risk.

Vasomotor Symptoms (Hot flushes & Night sweats)

Hot flushes and night sweats are common symptoms experienced during menopause, caused by hormonal fluctuations that affect the body’s temperature regulation. Hot flushes are sudden feelings of warmth, often accompanied by sweating and flushing of the skin, while night sweats refer to excessive sweating during sleep that can disrupt rest. Though they can be uncomfortable, various lifestyle changes and treatments are available to help manage these symptoms, allowing women to find relief and improve their quality of life during this transition.

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (vaginal dryness & incontinence)

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) refers to a collection of symptoms related to changes in the vaginal and urinary tract due to decreased estrogen levels during menopause. Common symptoms include vaginal dryness, irritation, painful intercourse, and urinary issues like increased urgency or recurrent infections. GSM can significantly impact quality of life, but effective treatments are available, including moisturizers, lubricants, and hormone therapy. It's important for women to discuss any symptoms with their healthcare provider to find the best management options.

Mood Changes or Irritability

During menopause, many women experience mood changes and irritability due to hormonal fluctuations, particularly the decline in estrogen levels. These changes can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, or frustration, often impacting daily life and relationships. While these emotional shifts can be challenging, understanding that they are a normal part of the transition can help. There are various strategies available, including lifestyle changes, counseling, and medication, to help manage these symptoms and support emotional well-being during this time.

Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia

Many women experience difficulties falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early, often exacerbated by symptoms like night sweats and anxiety, often linked to hormonal changes. These sleep disruptions can lead to fatigue and impact overall well-being. However, there are effective strategies to improve sleep, including establishing a bedtime routine, practicing relaxation techniques, and addressing any underlying issues. It’s important to discuss sleep concerns with a healthcare provider to find the best solutions for restoring restful nights.

Irregular and/or Heavy Periods

Irregular or heavy periods are common experiences during the perimenopausal phase as hormonal fluctuations disrupt the regular menstrual cycle. Women may notice changes in the frequency, duration, or intensity of their periods, which can sometimes lead to heavy bleeding and increased discomfort. These changes can be concerning, but they are often a normal part of the transition to menopause. It's essential to monitor any significant changes and discuss them with a healthcare provider, as there are various management options available to help alleviate symptoms and maintain comfort during this time.

Weight Gain

Some women can experience weight gain during menopause, often linked to hormonal changes, metabolism shifts, and lifestyle factors. While it can be frustrating, it’s also an opportunity to embrace new health goals and make positive changes! This phase of life encourages women to focus on nourishing their bodies with balanced nutrition and incorporating enjoyable physical activity into their routines and challenging false ideals around health. By adopting a proactive mindset and prioritizing self-care, women can manage weight gain effectively and boost their overall well-being, embracing this new chapter with confidence and vitality.

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Cervical screening for cervical cancer is recommended every 3 years until the age of 70!