When a woman reaches menopause or even peri-menopause, she expects to experience a few symptoms like night sweats, hot flashes, irritability and even small memory lapses. But some symptoms could be signs of bigger issues. That’s when it’s important to call your gynecologist or urogynecologist, like board-certified urogynecologist Dr. J. Kyle Mathews.

When Does Menopause Begin

Menopause is the point in a woman’s life when she has not had a period for 12 months. The average age is 51, but some women could begin menopause in their mid-40s. Perimenopause is the process that leads up to menopause. It can begin as early as a woman’s late 30s or into her 40s and 50s, and last anywhere from two to eight years.

What Are Menopause Symptoms?

Both menopause and perimenopause are part of the normal aging cycle. Even though many women would prefer to not think about their body changing, it’s always a good idea to fully understand what’s happening, or is going to happen. Always feel comfortable to call and consult with Dr. Mathews at Plano’s Urogynecology Associates throughout the process, even if you feel that the question is embarrassing.

The most normal menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms often include:

• Anxiety
• Headaches
• Heart palpitations
• Hot flashes
• Insomnia
• Irregular periods or skipped periods
• Memory lapses or concentration issues
• Mood swings
• Vaginal dryness

For some women, these symptoms may be mild and short-lived; however, others may experience severe cases — so severe that their daily life is affected.

Are There Treatments for Menopause?

When menopause and perimenopause symptoms become so bothersome that you feel unable to enjoy life or fully function in your daily life, call Dr. Mathews. Dr. Mathews may suggest that you find relief with hormone replacement therapy, bioidentical hormones, or prescribed lifestyle changes.

You may not need to see Dr. Mathews for every menopause symptom, but you need not suffer alone. Contact Dr. J. Kyle Mathews at Plano Urogynecology Associates with your questions and concerns about menopause and perimenopause.

| Category: Dr JKM, Menopause |