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Menopause Specialist

OB-GYN Associates of Marietta

Obstetrics and Gynecologist located in Marietta, GA & Woodstock, GA

The natural process of menopause marks the end of a woman’s fertility. The fluctuations of your hormones that occur during this transition can cause uncomfortable symptoms and health changes. At OB-GYN Associates of Marietta in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia, the expert team offers compassionate and skilled support in helping you manage menopause. Call one of the offices or schedule online to learn more about menopause management and postmenopause support.

Menopause Q & A

When does menopause occur?

The average age of menopause for women in the United States is 51, but the transition begins several years prior. In the period known as perimenopause, many of the symptoms you associate with menopause, such as hot flashes, begin as your hormones start to adjust. Perimenopause typically sets in about four years prior to menopause but can last just a few months or up to 10 years in some women. When you’ve gone 12 full months without a period, you’ve officially entered menopause.

What causes menopause?

Menopause is a natural part of the aging process when your body produces less of the hormones you need during childbearing years, namely estrogen and progesterone. Women who have a hysterectomy or undergo chemical treatments for cancer may experience menopause earlier. Some women also may enter premature menopause before the age of 40.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Menopause affects every woman differently. Some women have severe, unbearable symptoms, while other women tolerate their symptoms just fine. Common symptoms that can start as early as your 40s include:

  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Irregular periods
  • Sleep problems
  • Heavy or light menstrual bleeding
  • Sexual discomfort and decreased vaginal lubrication
  • Decreased libido
  • Lower bone density
  • Higher cholesterol levels
  • Weight gain
  • Dry skin
  • Breast tenderness
  • More frequent urinary tract infections

Symptoms may come and go or can cause constant disruption in your life. Talk to the practitioners at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta if you experience any of these symptoms and they interfere with your quality of life.

How is menopause managed?

Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, can help moderate symptoms of menopause. Hormone management can help you compensate for lower estrogen and progesterone levels.

At the offices of OB-GYN Associates of Marietta, the doctors offer hormone replacement therapy to regulate your hormone fluctuations and reduce the severity of your symptoms. You may receive hormone treatment through:

  • Skin patches
  • Oral medications
  • Vaginal cream or inserts

Talk to your provider at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta to determine the course of therapy that’s best for you. Call one of the offices or book an appointment using the online tool today.