Menopause is a natural stage of life when a woman's menstrual cycles stop permanently and she can no longer become pregnant. The menopause transition usually begins between the ages of 45 and 55. As the ovaries gradually produce fewer hormones like estrogen and progesterone, menstrual periods become irregular and eventually stop. Lower hormone levels can lead to symptoms like hot flashes, trouble sleeping, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and more.
While menopause marks the end of fertility, it can usher in an exciting new phase of life. However, bothersome symptoms may last for years into menopause for some women. The good news is that safe, effective treatment options are available today to help minimize discomforts and reduce health risks associated with hormonal changes.
Thespectrum of menopausal symptoms varies widely. They result from declining ovarian function and lower levels of hormones like estrogen. Common signs and symptoms include:
Additionally, the drop in estrogen early in menopause speeds bone loss, raising the risk of osteoporosis over time. Heart disease risk also increases after menopause.
The aim of treatment during the menopause transition is to minimize troublesome short-term symptoms and long-term health risks. Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective option available today for managing menopausal symptoms. It can also help protect bone health and reduce cardiovascular risks when initiated early.
However, HT is not right for all women. Treatment should be individualized based on each woman's risks, needs, preferences, and health profile. The caring medical providers at Balance Hormone Clinic specialize in customizing safe, effective hormone therapy regimens to help women thrive through menopause.
There are various FDA-approved hormone therapy preparations that contain either estrogen alone or estrogen plus progestogen. Estrogen is essential for managing hot flashes and preventing bone loss. Progestogen is needed for women with an intact uterus to prevent thickening of the uterine lining that raises cancer risk.
HT is available in pill form, rapid dissolving tablet, skin patch, gel/cream, vaginal ring, and more. Topical methods like patches, gels, and creams allow dosing targeted directly to the bloodstream while avoiding digestion. This results in more reliable absorption. locally administered vaginal estrogen provides relief from urogenital tract discomforts. The route of administration and dose can be tailored to each woman's needs.
The medical providers at Balance Hormone Clinic will take a full health history and check hormone levels via blood tests to identify candidates for HT. Starting doses are low and then adjusted based on treatment response and feedback. Follow up tests may be needed to achieve ideal hormone balance. Ongoing well woman exams and labwork help monitor long-term safety on HT.
Treatment plans are catered to benefit women in Conway based on health status, symptom profile, lifestyle, phase of menopause, family health history, any preexisting conditions, and personal priorities. The goal is for each woman to feel like her best self again.
Conway features scenic walking trails, yoga studios, art centers, healthy cafes, stress-relieving spas, and more that can enhance quality of life during the menopause transition and beyond. Consider exploring resources such as:
Balance Hormone Clinic partners with women to promote fulfilling, energized lives throughout all phases of adulthood into the golden years. Consider us your home for personalized care during menopause and beyond. Call today to learn more and schedule a consultation.
