Menopause

Our Approach

Menopause is a natural part of a woman's life. At Franciscan Health, we can help if you experience uncomfortable menopause symptoms. Our gynecologists can also determine your risk for heart disease and osteoporosis and offer treatment.

Diagnosing and treating menopause

Your gynecologist can diagnose menopause after talking to you about your medical history and symptoms. The doctor may also perform a blood test to measure your hormone levels.

You don't need treatment for menopause. However, you and your doctor may decide to treat your symptoms, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and depression.

Your risk for osteoporosis and coronary artery disease increases after menopause. Talk to your doctor about the best way to reduce your risk.

What is menopause?

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. A drop in reproductive hormones causes your menstrual cycles to stop. Your ovaries stop releasing eggs and stop producing most of the hormone estrogen. Menopause typically occurs in your late 40s or early 50s.

Stages of menopause

Natural menopause is a gradual process with three phases:

• Perimenopause: As you near menopause, your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. There is a steeper estrogen decline one to two years before menopause. Perimenopause can begin up to eight to 10 years before menopause.
• Menopause: Your ovaries stop producing eggs and estrogen production decreases. Natural menopause occurs when you stop having menstrual periods, typically between 45-55 years old. Some women experience early menopause after a hysterectomy or damage to the ovaries from chemotherapy.
• Postmenopause: You may experience hot flashes, urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness or weight gain after menopause. Decreased estrogen levels may also increase your risk for osteoporosis and heart disease. Medication and hormone therapy may reduce this risk.

Signs and symptoms of menopause

Perimenopause and menopause symptoms may include:

• Irregular periods
• Vaginal dryness
• Night sweats and hot flashes
• Mood changes or difficulty concentrating
• Slowed metabolism and weight gain
• Urinary urgency
• Sleep problems
• Depression
• Thinning hair
• Dry skin
• Loss of breast fullness
• Osteoporosis
• Racing heart