I'm Hot and It's Not the Weather: How to Survive Menopause

Women's health often comes with a stigma attached. In recent years, health equity organizations, celebrity advocates and influencers have brought the reality of Menopause, Perimenopause and Post-menopause into the public consciousness. Many have questions around this normal life transition, but don't always have access to the answers. Here to empower you through education, is Suzanne Miller, MD, OBGYN with Cone Health Center for Women’s Healthcare at Drawbridge Parkway, in this Q&A with WFMY 2 You Well-Being.

"Most people know that they're in menopause because their menstrual cycle starts to change and then ultimately stop," explains Dr. Miller, "Generally between the ages of 45-55."

What is Menopause?

During midlife, the health and functionality of the ovaries declines, leading to a gradual end of menstrual cycles. The ovaries are responsible for producing most of the body's estrogen, which is responsible for:

• Acting as a neurotransmitter. During menopause, the rapid decrease in estrogen can have an impact on emotional processing, memory and concentration.
• Preventing bone breakdown. Menopause can cause a loss in bone density and the onset of osteoporosis.
• Lowering cholesterol and improving blood vessel elasticity. Menopause can increase inflammation, blood clots and plaque build up in the arteries, leading to cardiovascular diseases.
• Regulating glucose and insulin sensitivity. Menopause can lead to increased weight gain, metabolic syndrome and Type II diabetes.
• Stimulating hair follicle growth and collagen production for skin elasticity and firmness. During menopause, hair can become thin, brittle or patchy, and skin can become dry and wrinkle.

What is Perimenopause?

A transitional precursor to the complete cessation of menstrual cycles, usually lasting months to years prior to menopause.

What is Surgical Menopause?

This occurs with the removal of the ovaries, which triggers a sudden decrease in estrogen production. Non-surgical menopause will happen more gradually, in comparison.

A common misunderstanding is that a hysterectomy involves the removal of the ovaries, but this is actually a procedure that removes the uterus. An Oophorectomy is a procedure that removes one or both ovaries.

What are the Symptoms?

• Hot flashes.
• Decreased libido.
• Vaginal dryness and pain with intercourse.
• Sleep disturbances from nighttime hot flashes.
• Changes in mood.
• Brain fog.

How Can I Manage Symptoms?

• Non-hormonal, herbal remedies.
• Alternative therapies like acupuncture.
• Prescription medications.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Those with a uterus would be prescribed estrogen and progesterone, which those without a uterus would take estrogen. However, it poses specific risks including cardiovascular disease, stroke, blood clots and breast cancer.
• Diet and exercise--those with lower body fat percentages tend to cope with symptoms better.
• Organizational structures like lists and calendars to help memory.

Get Care Now

Talk with your provider about exploring the Menopausal services at the Center for Women's Healthcare.