Menopause is a natural part of the aging process. However, the hormonal changes that occur before, during, and after menopause may affect your health and well-being. The experienced OB/GYNs at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology in Atlanta, Georgia, provide patient-centered menopause care to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Call the office or book an appointment online today.

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What is menopause?

Menopause is when you go 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle. The average age of menopause in the United States is 51 and occurs when your ovaries stop making estrogen. Estrogen is a female sex hormone that controls your cycle.

When your estrogen levels drop, your ovaries no longer ovulate (release an egg), and you can no longer get pregnant.

Though menopause has a definitive start date, your estrogen levels may start to fluctuate several months or years before you reach menopause. During this time, your menstrual cycle may be irregular, and you may experience some of the common symptoms of menopause.

What are menopause symptoms?

Menopause symptoms vary from woman-to-woman. Some women breeze through menopause without issues, while others find their symptoms disruptive to their daily life.

Common menopause symptoms include:

  • Hot flashes
  • Night sweats
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Mood changes
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Low libido
  • Weight gain

Though menopause is a normal life transition, you don’t have to suffer through the symptoms. If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms, the women’s health experts at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology can help.

What can I expect during menopausal care?

You can expect a patient-centered evaluation when you visit the KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology for menopausal care. During your exam, your provider aims to fully understand your health issues and symptoms to develop the most effective treatment plan.

During your menopausal care visit, your OB/GYN asks detailed questions about your symptoms, as well as your gynecological and medical history. They also ask about your family history.

Your OB/GYN performs a physical and pelvic exam and may request blood work to assess your hormone levels.

How is menopause treated?

Your OB/GYN at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology  customizes your menopause treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms and your personal medical history. Treatment may include:

  • Hormone therapy
  • Vaginal estrogen therapy
  • Clonidine or gabapentin for hot flashes
  • Antidepressants for mood changes
  • Nutritional supplements

KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology may suggest lifestyle modifications to manage your menopause, such as regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and improve sleep.

Your OB/GYN schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor you and your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

For expert menopausal care, call KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology or book an appointment online today.