Menopause

Menopause is a natural process in a woman’s life, but the effects can be uncomfortable or disruptive. Women in and around Miami, Florida, have access to an outstanding team at I & B Medical Associates for menopause care. We accept Medicare. If you’re experiencing signs of menopause and would like to explore options for relief, call the office to schedule a visit or book online from the comfort of home. 

What is menopause?

Menopause is a natural time of transition in a woman’s life. It marks the end of your reproductive years. The medical definition of menopause is the timeframe beginning 12 months after your last period.

Most women enter menopause between 45 and 55, but some women begin to notice changes years before menopause officially begins. The menopause transition usually lasts around seven years.

Many people refer to the changes that accompany menopause as “symptoms.” It’s important to understand that menopause is not a disease but a perfectly natural process. That said, some women experience numerous changes during menopause that disrupt regular routines.

Menopause comes at a time in life when many women are nearing the end of their responsibilities as parents or approaching retirement. This is a time when you’ve earned the right to place your own needs at the center of your focus. Don’t let menopause changes distract you from enjoying this phase of life.

How do I know if I’m entering menopause?

Knowing what to keep an eye out for makes it easier to see when you’re entering menopause. Some of the changes you might notice as you near or enter menopause include:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Headaches
• Sleep disruption
• Irritability
• Abnormal bleeding
• Weight gain
• Vaginal dryness
• Mood swings

Some women only notice a couple of mild changes during menopause. For others, the experience is incredibly disruptive and difficult to navigate.  

Are there treatments that can make menopause easier?

The primary treatment for menopause is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Hormonal shifts cause virtually all of the changes that occur during menopause. HRT treatment supplements your declining hormone production with synthetic hormones. 

It takes some time to find the right balance of supplemental hormones to meet your needs. Your practitioner works closely with you to ensure your treatment delivers optimal results. 

If you only experience changes like headaches or weight gain, you may be able to address those issues with medication or medically supervised weight loss. The best way to determine a course of action is to come in for an exam and a discussion of your specific symptoms. 

When you’re ready to book a visit, call the office to check appointment availability. Simple online booking is also an option, so don’t delay in getting the care you need.