Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life that marks the end of her fertility. Though menopause is normal, the hormonal changes that occur before and during menopause may affect your quality of life. John Devine, MD, an experienced urogynecologist at the Center for Urogynecology and Female Pelvic Health in Venice, Florida, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of menopause and its symptoms. To get relief from your menopause symptoms, call the office or request an appointment today.

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What is menopause?

Menopause is when you naturally stop menstruating or when your ovaries are removed when still menstruating. You officially reach menopause when you go 12 months in a row without your period. It occurs because your ovaries stop making estrogen, which is the female hormone that controls ovulation and your menstrual cycle.

The average age of menopause for women in the United States is 51.

Before you reach menopause, you may go through a transitional stage called perimenopause. During perimenopause, your estrogen levels fluctuate and you may start to experience many of the symptoms associated with menopause.

Perimenopause may start in your 30s or 40s and last several years.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Women experience an array of symptoms during perimenopause and menopause. The severity of your symptoms may vary from mild to severe.

Types of perimenopause and menopause symptoms include:

  • Vaginal dryness
  • Low libido
  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Mood changes
  • Weight gain
  • Problems sleeping
  • Dry skin
  • Thinning hair
  • Frequent urination
  • Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

In addition to the physical symptoms, your declining estrogen levels also affect bone health and increase your risk of osteoporosis.

What happens during a menopause evaluation?

When you visit the Center for Urogynecology and Female Pelvic Health for a menopause evaluation, you can expect a patient-centered exam. Dr. Devine schedules long appointments for consultations and first-time patients to gather as much information as possible.

During your menopause evaluation, Dr. Devine reviews your symptoms, medical history, gynecological history, and the types of medications and supplements you take. He performs a physical, pelvic, and breast exam.

Dr. Devine may also run blood work to check your hormone levels and request a bone density test to assess bone health.

How is menopause treated?

Treatment for menopause focuses on alleviating your symptoms. Dr. Devine develops personalized plans based on the severity of your symptoms, medical and gynecological history, and personal preferences.

Treatment may include:

  • Hormone therapy
  • Antidepressants to lift mood
  • Vaginal estrogen replacement
  • Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) for hot flashes and vaginal dryness
  • Vaginal moisturizers or lubricants
  • Nutritional supplements to improve bone health
  • Antibiotics for UTIs

For women struggling with urinary incontinence related to vaginal tissue health changes, Dr. Devine creates a personalized treatment plan that improves your bladder control and health.

Don’t let your menopause symptoms direct your life. Call the Center for Urogynecology and Female Pelvic Health, or request an appointment for your personalized treatment plan.