Postmenopause - Vitality Wellness Clinic

What is postmenopause?

Postmenopause refers to the time after a woman's final menstrual period. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period.

The transition into postmenopause is known as perimenopause and can last for several years as the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone. This transition brings changes like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and irregular periods before they ultimately stop.

Once in postmenopause, estrogen levels are very low. This leads to physiological changes like:

• Increased risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures without enough estrogen for bone health. Weight-bearing exercise and calcium/vitamin D supplementation becomes even more important.
• Changes in cholesterol levels and fat distribution due to the lack of estrogen's protective effects. Regular screenings with your doctor becomes critical for monitoring cardiovascular health.
• Vaginal atrophy causing dryness, irritation, and painful intercourse. Non-hormonal lubricants can help manage symptoms. For more troublesome atrophy, low-dose vaginal estrogen application under medical supervision may be warranted.

The experts at Vitality Wellness Clinic specialize in navigating women through perimenopause and postmenopause transitions via individualized care including:

• Hormone therapy with systemic or vaginal estrogen/progestogens to relieve hot flashes and urogenital symptoms
• Comprehensive panels to monitor bone density, cholesterol levels, thyroid function
• Nutraceuticals to support energy levels, sleep quality, sexual health

Going through menopause brings great change for women in the next stage of life. Working closely with your doctor for preventative care and symptom management allows you to take charge of your health during the postmenopausal period. Reach out today to learn more about individualized treatment plans at Vitality Wellness Clinic!