Menopause

Each woman’s journey through menopause is different. Some have mild symptoms, while others suffer from such severe hot flashes they can’t sleep or function during the day. The doctors at Hill Country OB/GYN understand the challenges and diverse problems facing women. They take the time to listen to your concerns, then create a tailored plan to relieve your symptoms and keep you healthy and well. To get the help you need, call one of the offices in Austin and Dripping Springs, Texas today.

When Will I Reach Menopause?

You may enter menopause any time between the ages of 35 and 55, but the average age is 51 years. When your ovaries stop producing hormones, your menstrual periods cease. After 12 consecutive months without a period, you’ve officially reached menopause.

What Symptoms Will I Experience During Menopause?

Fluctuating hormones in the 3-5 years before menopause (perimenopause) often cause changes in your menstrual periods.

The classic symptoms of menopause may begin during perimenopause or not be apparent until you’re at menopause. Then they can continue for years afterward.

The loss of estrogen at menopause causes:

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Mood swings

• Vaginal dryness

• Low sex drive

• Painful intercourse

• Difficulty concentrating

• Frequent need to urinate

• Urinary incontinence

• Vaginal atrophy

About half of all women develop vaginal atrophy after menopause. Vaginal atrophy is a condition in which vaginal tissues become thin and dry, blood supply is diminished, and you have less lubrication.

Am I at Risk for Other Health Problems After Menopause?

Estrogen fills many roles in your body, from helping to maintain healthy vaginal tissues to regulating bone metabolism. As a result, menopause increases your risk of developing:

• Cardiovascular disease

• Osteoporosis

• Vaginal atrophy

• Urinary incontinence

• Aging, dehydrated skin

• Hair loss

• Gum disease

You can help prevent these problems with hormone therapy that brings estrogen levels back to normal.

How is Menopause Managed?

As specialists in women’s health, the doctors at Hill Country OB/GYN work one-on-one with each patient. They create a plan to reduce your symptoms and keep you active and healthy, which may include everything from lifestyle tips and dietary guidance to medications.

The most effective way to relieve menopause symptoms and maintain your youthful energy is to restore estrogen back to its normal levels.

The doctors at Hill Country OB/GYN prescribe BioTE® for hormone replacement therapy because it provides several health advantages:

• Contains bioidentical hormones that exactly duplicate your body’s hormones

• Made from natural plants (no animal or synthetic hormones)

• Custom-made to provide the precise dosage that fits your needs

• Delivered in pellet form (injected under your skin) that lasts up to six months

• Maintains a consistent level of hormones, avoiding fluctuations that lead to side effects

In the years before, during, and after menopause, Hill Country OB/GYN is here to help. Call our office today.