Am I in Menopause? With Dr Stephanie Mcnally

Menopause is a big change in a woman's life, and understanding it can make the transition easier. Here's a straightforward look at what happens during menopause, the symptoms to watch for, and why finding the right care is important.

"Menopause is a moment in time. And then at that point, you've had your full year, you've gone through your menopausal transition."

The Stages of Menopause

Menopause happens in stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. Perimenopause is the lead-up to menopause, where hormone levels start to fluctuate, causing changes in menstrual cycles. Menopause is when a woman hasn't had a period for a year. After that, it's postmenopause, which is the new normal for the rest of life.

Spotting Perimenopause

During perimenopause, periods can become irregular, and symptoms like hot flashes, sleep issues, mood swings, and headaches might start. As noted, "one of the first things that women are gonna start to notice is your period starts to skip." These are due to changing estrogen levels as the ovaries slow down.

"Be bold and be brave. If you are feeling something, the chance is that there's something is changing, so speak up for yourself."

Blood Tests and Menopause

Blood tests can check hormone levels, but they aren't always reliable for pinpointing menopause because hormone levels can vary a lot. "It's not going to give me that crystal ball analysis that menopause will happen on this day," explains the variability. However, they can help rule out other issues like thyroid problems or anemia that might mimic menopause symptoms.

"Our goal is to equip you with reliable, expert-backed insights to constantly navigate the different phases of menopause."

Why Specialized Care Matters

Seeing a certified menopause specialist can make a big difference. These experts have extra training to help manage menopause symptoms and can offer advice on treatments like hormone therapy. "Find the right team member, find the right person," is crucial advice for navigating this life stage.

When Menopause is Medically Induced

Sometimes, surgeries like ovary removal can trigger menopause suddenly. This can cause immediate symptoms and needs careful management to handle long-term health effects, like on heart and bone health. "The second your anesthesia wears off, you will go into the recovery room and not this accordion," highlighting the abrupt change.

Family History's Role

Your family history can give clues about when menopause might start for you. If early menopause runs in your family, it's worth discussing with your doctor to prepare and manage the transition better. "Genetics plays into it," and understanding this can help in planning.

"The one pro that the pandemic did for women's health is telehealth. You can do these subsequent follow-ups in the safety and time frame of your own home."

Wrapping Up

Menopause is a natural part of getting older. Knowing what to expect and finding the right support can help you handle it better. Look for resources like menopause.org to find certified specialists and get more information. Always talk to healthcare professionals for advice tailored to your situation.

"It's time really to speak up for what women deserve."