Everything You Need to Know About Menopause

Menopause is a natural process that every female body goes through eventually.

However, many women are surprised to begin to experience the symptoms of menopause. 

Today, we discuss everything you need to know about menopause so that you can feel prepared for what is to come. 

Menopause Symptoms

Perimenopause refers to the months or years leading up to menopause where you may experience symptoms such as the following:

  • Hot flashes
  • Dryness of the vagina
  • Period irregularity
  • Night sweats
  • Chills
  • Sleep issues
  • Mood swings
  • Slower metabolism or weight gain
  • Thinning hair
  • Dry skin

When to Call Your Doctor

It is important to always visit your doctor for your annual gynecological exam. 

During your exam, make your doctor aware if you are experiencing any of the symptoms above. 

What Causes Menopause?

There are many reasons why menopause occurs. 

For many women, menopause is a result of the natural decline of your reproductive hormones. 

For others, menopause may be brought on as a result of a hysterectomy, or due to chemotherapy or radiation treatment. 

However, some women (roughly 1 percent) experience premature menopause which occurs before age 40. 

This is generally a result of your ovaries failing to produce normal hormonal levels. 

Menopausal Complications

Once you have gone through menopause you may be at a higher risk for certain conditions including the following:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Osteoporosis
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Sexual function issues
  • Weight gain

If you believe that you are experiencing any of the above complications, your doctor should be able to recommend treatments or medicines to help alleviate your discomfort or to manage your symptoms. 

Menopause Doctor

Dr. Nicky Singh is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist who has been in private practice since 1994. 

Over the years, Dr. Singh has prided herself in serving the women of her community for all of their OB/GYN needs. 

If you believe that you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, call Dr. S. Nicky Singh today at (703)359-4842.