Understanding Your Menopause Symptoms

Even though menopause occurs naturally as the body ages in a woman's life, each experience with menopause is different—one of the main concerns is the symptoms that arise, which is why Dr. Fred Duboe, Dr. Gail Gerber, and Dr. Abby Seruya with Northwest Associates For Women's Healthcare in Hoffman Estates, IL, encourage you to learn more about types of menopause symptoms that you might be experiencing.

Back To Basics

It's probable that you are familiar with what menopause signifies—your body has reached the end of its fertile and reproductive capacity. Shortly before this time, your ovaries begin decreasing the hormone production of estrogen. You can expect your menstrual cycle to look different (i.e. irregular periods) until the cycle stops completely.

Generally, when 12 consecutive months have occurred without your menstrual cycle, you have gone through menopause. Though, as your body is undergoing this change, it's not exactly a painless experience.

Behind The Symptoms

At Northwest Associates For Women's Healthcare in Hoffman Estates, IL, we understand that the occurrence of menopause cannot be reduced to a single symptom or experience, as it will differ from woman to woman. Some women may only deal with an occasional hot flash or intervals of difficulty sleeping, while others may endure more severe symptoms.

Common symptoms that occur, luckily have reasonable remedies to reduce any discomfort you might be feeling. Some of these symptoms include:

  • Hot flashes and/or night sweats—as your body undergoes the loss of estrogen, hot flashes and/or night sweats are common symptoms that can, fortunately, be dealt with through a variety of medications. Night sweats can often be reduced by wearing clothing made of lighter fabrics or having a fan near your bed.
  • Mood changes—because your body is going through quite a dramatic change, it's completely normal to experience periods of increased irritability, depression, anxiety, and fatigue. If you notice that your mood changes are impacting you more than you're used to, Dr. Duboe, Dr. Gerber, or Dr. Seruya, are happy to discuss techniques to alleviate anxiety or potential low-dose antidepressants.
  • Discomfort during intercourse—vaginal dryness and/or a decrease of libido is fairly common, but many women believe this is a permanent change. However, there are several options that can be discussed with our doctors to enhance your sexual health!
  • Weight gain and/or loss—another result of our body aging is weight gain, which often indicates losing muscle tissue. Because our bodies age, our metabolism begins slowing down which can also attribute to weight gain. Engaging in sustainable exercises and maintaining a proper diet can keep you feeling good as your body ages.

Answering Your Questions

Menopause can be a challenging time, which is why Dr. Duboe, Dr. Gerber, and Dr. Seruya with Northwest Associates For Women's Healthcare in Hoffman Estates, IL, encourage you to schedule a visit with them to address any questions or concerns you might have. Give our office a call today at (847) 884-1800!

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