Menopause is the time when women stop having menstrual periods and are no longer able to bear children. Although some women are delighted that they no longer have to deal with their monthly cycle, others are plagued by unpleasant symptoms that never seem to end.
A Closer Look at Menopause
The list of perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms is long. From night sweats to hot flashes, symptoms can range from moments of irritability to clothes-soaking sweats. There are many ways to approach menopause and treatment, but since the symptoms of menopause are so vast, knowing what to look for is a good first step.
The Symptoms
Just as no two women are alike, neither are their menopausal symptoms. Some women go through menopause with ease while others seem to have every symptom imaginable. Typical physical symptoms include the following:
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Weight gain
• Reduced libido
• Hair loss
• Migraines
In addition to physical symptoms, many women suffer from emotional effects of menopause. While typically short-lived, the following symptoms are nonetheless bothersome:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Grumpiness
With so many physical and psychological symptoms, many women look towards hormone replacement for relief. Over the last decade, bioequivalent hormones for menopause have become increasingly popular. But what exactly are they?
Hormone Replacement and Bioequivalent Hormones
Bioequivalent hormones are specific hormones that balance or increase those directly related to reproduction, such as estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. In the years leading up to menopause, a woman’s body starts to produce less of these hormones (particularly estrogen), which can lead to symptoms of fatigue, night sweats and hot flashes, just to name a few. Treatment with bioequivalent hormones has the goal of increasing hormone levels back to their previous levels.
What are the Benefits?
Every woman responds differently to hormone replacement therapy. Some have an increase in their energy levels while others have a reduction in hot flashes and mood swings. In general, the benefits of bioequivalent hormonal therapy can include:
• Improved mental clarity and alertness
• Reduction in hot flashes and night sweats
• Improved sleep quality
• Increased sex drive and reduction in vaginal dryness
Whether you’re perimenopausal, in the midst of menopause or postmenopausal, lifestyle plays a huge role in your overall health. Exercising regularly, lowering stress levels and eating a healthy diet can do wonders for not only your body, but your mind as well.
You can see how bioequivalent hormones can benefit you by scheduling a consultation at Premiere Center for Health and Wellness in Cincinnati. Contact our office today to book an appointment and get started!
