Menopause Specialist

What is menopause?

You officially reach menopause when you haven’t had a menstrual period for 12 months. As you approach menopause, you go through perimenopause and may experience many of the signs and symptoms of this change in life.

Most women reach menopause between the ages of 45-58, with an average age of 52. However, some women may have early menopause or continue to have periods longer than expected. 

What are the signs of menopause?

As you approach menopause, your ovarian reserves decline, and your estrogen levels fluctuate. Your periods may change in frequency, duration, and flow. Some of the other signs of menopause include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Weight gain
• Hair thinning or loss
• Insomnia
• Libido loss
• Vaginal dryness
• Painful intercourse
• Urinary urgency
• Mood swings
• Increased irritability
• Reduced concentration and memory
• Depression or anxiety

Some women reach menopause without experiencing distressing symptoms, while others deal with significant disruption to their well-being. Fortunately, treatment is available to manage your menopause symptoms and protect your health. 

When should I talk to my doctor about menopause?

As you age, you can begin to discuss menopause with your doctor during your annual well-woman visit. However, if you start to develop symptoms that interfere with your life, you may make an appointment at Arizona Women’s Care at any time. 

What are the available menopause management options?

The Arizona Women’s Care team offers customized menopause management programs to address your individual needs. Your doctor may recommend:

Lifestyle changes

Your doctor might recommend adjusting your diet and increasing your daily physical activity levels. Limiting or stopping alcohol consumption and staying away from spicy foods and caffeine may also reduce some of your symptoms. 

Hormone replacement therapy

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to manage your menopause symptoms, your doctor may suggest bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. This highly personalized treatment can regulate your estrogen levels and reduce or eliminate many of the uncomfortable and distressing aspects of menopause. 

Our office is uniquely trained in biodientical troche (losenge) and capsule. We have enduring relationships with our pharmacies and emphasize custom blends of hormones for you.

Vaginal rejuvenation

The Arizona Women’s Care team also offers vaginal rejuvenation treatments, including the MonaLisa Touch® and labiaplasty, to address incontinence, vaginal dryness, and laxity. 

The team includes five physicians who have reached menopause and understand what you’re going through. They’re committed to helping you maintain your health and vitality as you age. 

Call Arizona Women’s Care or schedule an appointment online today if you need help managing menopause.