Oh the joys of going through menopause! You know, the night sweats, hot flashes, weight gain, and moodiness. Of course we are kidding, because every woman who has experienced menopause knows it’s no fun. Some women have it easier than others, but regardless of the severity of your symptoms, learn how your gynecologist can help manage challenging menopausal symptoms.
Don’t Overlook The Specialist
Your gynecologist is the very best person to speak to about menopausal symptoms, so why do so many women just grin and bear it? There are ways to reduce or eliminate certain symptoms and return to a more normal life.
Capital Women’s Care can help you get beyond this period of your life with as few hiccups as possible and without major disruptions.
HRT Or Hormone Replacement Therapy
One way your GYN can help is by evaluating your symptoms and recommending hormone replacement therapy. As you continue to lose estrogen and progesterone, it can turn your life upside down.
There are multiple ways to replace the lost hormones including oral medications, pellets, transdermal patches, creams, or gels. Talk with Capital Women’s Care about which might be best for you.
Hormone replacement is not for everyone, though, and if you have blood clotting issues, breast cancer, or heart disease, your doctor may think it best to use non-hormonal medications.
Medications Without Hormones
There are three types of medications for menopause symptoms that are not hormonal. One of these might be better for you.
SSRI antidepressants like Paxil, Zoloft, Lexapro, and Prozac can help reduce hot flashes and night sweats along with any depression you may be experiencing.
Blood pressure medications help with hot flashes, rapid heart beat, and night sweats.
Certain medications that treat osteoporosis help to strengthen bones and prevent bone loss.
Simple Lifestyle Changes
Lastly, sometimes just making minor changes or additions to your life can help with menopausal symptoms.
Among things that make you go “duh” are the following:
- Wear light weight cotton clothing to bed
- Use a fan by your bedside
- Take cool showers instead of hot
- Don’t smoke
- Stay in air-conditioning during the summer
- Avoid food and drinks that can trigger hot flashes
- Lose some weight
Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet are excellent lifestyle choices to keep you free of the worst menopausal symptoms. Choose foods that are rich in Vitamins A, D, and C, and take a daily multivitamin.
If you are starting to notice some incontinence, vaginal dryness, and pain during intercourse, discuss these additional symptoms with your gynecologist.
When in doubt about what is normal concerning menopause, the symptoms, and the extent of discomfort, always talk with your menopausal specialist.
Consult with Capital Women’s Care if you are experiencing any symptoms of menopause.
For further questions or to schedule an appointment, please call (301) 681-3400 or request an appointment online today.