Procedures
Menopause treatment
Overview
Menopause is a transition to a new phase of life in women. It occurs when the menstrual cycle comes to an end, which is not a health problem. However, factors such as hormonal changes, hair loss, etc. may cause discomfort. Menopause is a term used to describe any changes that may occur before or after a woman stops experiencing her periods. Menopause is a regular part of ageing which occurs after the age of 40 but may occur earlier.
There are different stages of menopause, namely:
- Perimenopause – This phase normally starts several years before menopause due to your ovaries slowly produce less estrogen. Perimenopause lasts until the point where your ovaries stop releasing eggs, and this phase is called menopause.
- Menopause – This begins after 12 months of not having your periods. Your ovaries stop releasing eggs your oestrogen levels decrease.
- Postmenopause – This is phase refers to years after menopause.
What are menopause symptoms?
Women approaching menopause may experience symptoms such as hot flashes, sudden feelings of warmth which may spread over the upper body, blushing and night sweats. These flashes may range from being mild to being severe in some women. Other signs and symptoms of menopause may include:
- Uneven or missed periods
- Vaginal dryness
- Sore breasts
- Frequent need to pee
- Trouble sleeping
- Emotional changes
- Dry skin, eyes or mouth
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Heart rhythm problems
- Weight gain
- Joint and muscle aches and pains
- Hair loss
- Changes in libido or sex drive
What are menopause treatment options?
Menopause is a natural process, and symptoms may resolve themselves as time goes by. However, if menopause symptoms begin to interfere with your daily routine, treatment may help relieve them. Dr Hlabisa may recommend the following:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – This involves Dr Hlabisa prescribing hormonal medication to replace hormones that your body is unable to produce. He may also prescribe certain drugs or a combination of drugs to help with hot flashes, vaginal dryness and help make your bones stronger.
- Vaginal estrogen – To relieve vaginal dryness, estrogen may be administered directly to the vagina in the form of a cream, tablet or ring.
- Low-dose antidepressants, gabapentin and clonidine – These may be prescribed to help manage hot flashes.
- Osteoporosis medication – Depending on your needs, Dr Hlabisa may prescribe treatment to help prevent or treat osteoporosis.
