Menopause

What Is Menopause ?

Hormonal changes are usually a NORMAL part of aging. That doesn’t mean you have to suffer through them. At The Avery Center, our focus on your health emphasizes the quality of your life. We are experts at using bioidentical hormone therapy to improve your symptoms, slow down the aging process and keep you feeling as youthful as possible. There is so much misinformation and confusion out there. We love sorting out the nonsense from the science and getting you on track to feeling better in a safe, evidence-based way that will promote your longevity and happiness. Starting hormones can sometimes be a bumpy road with some ups and downs and many questions. That’s why we give you instant access to our HRT coordinator. Simply text 203-840-1507 and our experienced HRT coordinator will answer your common questions and / or connect you with one of our providers to be sure your hormonal journey is as smooth as possible.

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Explore our full range of OB-GYN services — from menopausal care and minimally invasive surgery to prenatal support — and schedule an appointment for personalized women’s care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Symptoms of Menopause?

As your body prepares for menopause, you may begin to experience a range of symptoms, including:

Irregular periods
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Mood fluctuations
Vaginal dryness
Decreased libido

The signs of menopause may last for a few months to a few years. Once you’ve reached a point where you haven’t had a period for 12 months, symptoms should begin to subside. In the United States, this typically occurs around age 51.

What Causes Menopause?

In most cases, menopause is the natural result of aging. As women reach their 40s, their hormone production begins to decrease, and less estrogen and progesterone are available. That impacts fertility and can also lead to the unwanted side effects of menopause. In other circumstances, menopause is induced prematurely. That’s often the result of a hysterectomy that includes the removal of both ovaries, leading to an immediate halt in the production of reproductive hormones. Specific chemotherapy and radiation treatments can also stop menstruation, although this may not be permanent.

A small percentage of women — about 1% — have naturally occurring premature menopause. Referred to as primary ovarian insufficiency, this occurs when your ovaries don’t produce enough estrogen and progesterone; it’s often the result of genetics or an autoimmune disorder.

Can You Reduce Menopause Symptoms at Home?

If your menopause symptoms are mild, your OB/GYN may recommend self-management. For instance, if you’re suffering from sleep disturbances, they may counsel you on improving your sleep habits, and hot flashes can be improved by dressing in layers and avoiding certain foods. If you’re suffering from sexual discomfort caused by vaginal dryness, use an over-the-counter vaginal lubricant. Continuing to engage in sexual activities increases blood flow to the area and can improve genital health and function.

Your doctor may also recommend:

Eating right
Exercising regularly
Quitting smoking
Using relaxation techniques

How is Menopause Treated?

If at-home remedies aren’t enough to improve your symptoms, your doctor may recommend hormone replacement therapy. Since a drop in estrogen causes the symptoms of menopause, replacing it can significantly reduce your symptoms. In some cases, estrogen is combined with progesterone.

Although hormone replacement therapy isn’t right for everyone, it’s effective in treating your symptoms and preventing bone loss, protecting you against osteoporosis.