Menopause

Menopause is the time in your life when you naturally stop having menstrual periods, marking the end of the reproductive years. Menopause happens when the ovaries stop making estrogen, the hormone that helps control the menstrual cycle. Most women go through menopause in their early 50s.

Common signs and symptoms of menopause:

• Hot flashes
• Sleep problems
• Vaginal and urinary tract changes

Menopause can lead to rapid bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and bone fracture. The decrease in estrogen production also increases a woman's risk of heart attack and stroke.

Your gynecologist can help you manage your symptoms through a number of treatments:

• Low-dose oral contraceptives
• Prescription and over-the-counter medications to manage hot flashes, mood swings, etc.
• Hormone replacement therapy