When it comes to women’s health, menopause is a hot topic. Menopause occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop releasing eggs, typically around age 45 to 55, marking the end of menstrual cycles. This transition results from declining hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and progesterone. Its effects vary widely, impacting physical and emotional health. In the period that leads to the menopause (perimenopause – which can occur for several years), women may experience symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal dryness, and changes in sleep patterns. Menopause can also increase the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease due to decreased oestrogen levels. While it’s a natural phase of life, its symptoms and health effects can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life and may require management through appropriate menopause treatment.
This help can come in the form of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) which supplements declining oestrogen and progesterone levels during perimenopause and menopause. It can help to balance hormone levels to alleviate associated symptoms, enhancing quality of life. HRT treatment also reduces bone density loss, lowering osteoporosis risk, and can lower the risk of heart disease. However, its use involves potential risks, including increased chances of blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer. HRT can be administered in a variety of forms and doctors will explore the most suitable option for each individual. Benefits vary from patient to patient and require careful consideration, personalised treatment plans, and periodic reassessment by healthcare professionals to balance symptom relief with potential risks for each woman experiencing menopausal symptoms.
As well as advice on menopause and HRT treatment, our female patients frequently visit our doctors for information about contraceptives. This encompasses various methods like oral pills, patches, injections, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, and barrier methods as a way of preventing pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to inhibit sperm movement, or altering the uterine lining. They offer women reproductive control, aiding in family planning, regulating menstrual cycles, and reducing menstrual pain. Additionally, some contraceptives provide non-contraceptive benefits, managing conditions such as acne or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), enhancing overall health.
