Menopause

If you're showing signs of early menopause (perimenopause), this stage of life marks the end of your menstruation cycle. And though it’s a normal process, menopause can be an adjustment. That’s why the women’s health experts at North Kansas City Hospital are here — and ready to help you stay comfortable before, during and after menopause.

What’s Menopause?

Menopause is a natural process and a normal part of aging. It typically starts in women around age 40 or 50, (though it can happen sooner or later) when your ovaries produce less estrogen. After 12 months without your period, you have menopause. Perimenopause is the time before menopause, when your periods begin to change.  

Perimenopause Symptoms

During the perimenopausal stage, it is common to experience:

• Heart pounding or racing
• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Skin flushing
• Loss of sex drive
• Sleep problems, such as insomnia

Menopause Treatments

Gynecologists at NKCH can work with you to create a plan that keeps you comfortable throughout menopause. Your treatment plan may include:

• Hormone therapy
• Lifestyle changes with habits like diet and exercise
• Medications
• Sleep medicine

Preventive Care After Menopause

When your menopause stops, that doesn’t mean your care should stop too. We recommend that you continue seeing your doctor for regular health care visits because menopause increases your risk for certain conditions, such as osteoporosis and heart disease.

Tips for Post-Menopause Living

There are a few lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce symptoms of menopause:

• Avoid alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods
• Eat a low-fat diet with soy-based foods
• Get regular exercise
• Perform Kegel exercises to strengthen muscles of the vagina and pelvis
• Practice slow, deep breathing whenever hot flashes occur
• Remain sexually active and use water-based lubricants during intercourse
• Stop smoking
• Take calcium and Vitamin D
• Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, tai chi or meditation