Menopause: Understanding the Change and How to Manage It

Am I Going Through Menopause?

Let’s start by defining menopause. A woman is officially considered to be in menopause after going 12 consecutive months without a period. This phase typically marks the end of your reproductive years. While menopause can be a liberating time (goodbye, periods!), it can also come with various physical and emotional changes.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

Symptoms can vary from woman to woman, but many experience a range of changes. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Brain fog
• Night sweats
• Mood swings
• Loss of libido
• Weight gain
• Vaginal dryness
• Dry skin
• Joint pain

While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, it’s important to remember that they’re a natural part of the process, though the intensity and duration can vary.

What Happens to Your Body During Menopause?

During menopause, your ovaries stop their production of estrogen, a hormone that plays a key role in several of your body's functions, including brain activity, tissue health, and sexual function. While estrogen is often called a "sex hormone," it has a much broader impact on your body.

As estrogen levels decline, several changes may occur:

• Bone density may decrease, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
• Connective tissue can become drier and less elastic, leading to stiffness in joints and muscles.
• Vaginal and skin dryness can lead to discomfort during sex or in daily activities.

On the bright side, menopause also means no more periods—definitely a positive for many women!

Treatment Options for Menopause

Menopause affects every woman differently. Some experience only mild symptoms, while others face more severe challenges. If your symptoms are significantly affecting your quality of life, treatment options are available. Many women find relief with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), but it’s important to consult your doctor to discuss what’s best for you.

1. Systemic Estrogen – Available as a topical gel or cream, or oral pill. This can help address symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. However, women with a history of certain cancers (breast, ovarian, or cervical) may not be candidates for systemic estrogen.
2. Systemic Testosterone – This treatment can help boost libido and improve mood, energy, and muscle mass.
3. Local Estrogen – Vaginal creams, rings, or suppositories can be effective for treating vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex. These tend to be safe for most women, even those who cannot take systemic estrogen.
4. Supplements – There are a variety of supplements that may help alleviate menopause symptoms, but it’s important to consult with your physician or a pharmacist before starting any new supplement regimen.
5. Pelvic Health Physical Therapy – Specialized therapy to address pelvic floor function and related issues (more on this below!).

How Can Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Help?

Pelvic health physical therapy focuses on treating the pelvic floor muscles and tissues. These muscles are vital for bladder, bowel, and sexual health, and they can be affected during menopause.

As estrogen levels decrease, the vaginal tissues can become drier, stiffer, and prone to atrophy. This can result in vaginal tearing, pain during intercourse, and incontinence. Pelvic floor physical therapy can help by improving muscle function, enhancing blood flow to tissues, and strengthening pelvic muscles. These improvements can lead to greater support for pelvic organs, reduced pain, and better overall pelvic health.

A Helpful Resource: The "M Factor" Documentary

For anyone looking to learn more about menopause, I highly recommend the PBS documentary M Factor. It provides an informative and insightful look at this life stage and offers expert advice on how to manage the physical and emotional challenges of menopause.