Menopause Management

What is menopause? 

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. During menopause, the ovaries gradually reduce their production of estrogen and progesterone, leading to the cessation of menstrual periods.

It typically occurs in the late 40s to early 50s, but the age of onset can vary. The duration can last several months to several years and may elicit symptoms that range from mild to debilitating.

What are the three transformative stages women experience?

1. Perimenopause: The transitional phase leading up to menopause is called perimenopause. It can start several years before menopause and involves irregular menstrual cycles, hormonal fluctuations, and the onset of menopausal symptoms. It is these fluctuations that cause symptoms and discomfort. 

2. Menopause: Menopause is medically defined as 12 consecutive months of not having a menstrual period. It signifies the end of the reproductive phase. 

3. Postmenopause: The years following menopause are referred to as postmenopause. During this phase, menopausal symptoms may gradually decrease, but certain health considerations, such as bone density and heart health, remain important.

What kinds of symptoms does perimenopause cause?

Perimenopause can cause a wide array of symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Some of the most common symptoms of perimenopause include:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Irritability and moodiness
• Abnormal periods
• Vaginal dryness or itching or burning sensations in or around the vagina
• Loss of interest in sex
• Problems focusing
• Weight gain
• Hair growth on the face
• Thinning hair on the head
• Painful intercourse
• Tender or itchy breasts or nipples

Why choose the Chicago Center for Women's Health?

At the Chicago Center for Women's Health, our commitment is to empower our patients with the knowledge and care you need to embrace menopause confidently.

Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward personalized menopause management with expert urogynecological guidance, which includes:

1. Comprehensive Consultations: In-depth consultations to understand individual experiences, concerns, and health history.

2. Holistic Wellness Approach: Dr. Furlong and her staff are trained on integrating various services to address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of menopause. Patients can expect a tailored approach that addresses their symptoms with a plan that focuses on their treatment preferences.  

3. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Personalized hormone therapy to manage menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.

4. Bone Health Assessments: Regular screenings and guidance to maintain strong and healthy bones during and after menopause.

5. Heart Health Monitoring: Assessing cardiovascular health and providing guidance on maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, and access to cutting edge Autonomic Nervous System testing to evaluate your overall functioning. 

6. Nutritional Counseling: Guidance on a well-balanced diet to support overall health and address specific concerns like weight management and bone health.

7. Fitness and Exercise Programs: Tailored exercise plans to promote physical well-being and manage weight.

8. Pelvic Health Assessments: Evaluations for urogynecological concerns, addressing issues like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

9. Sexual Health Services: Solutions for changes in sexual health, including addressing vaginal dryness and discomfort.

10. Mental Health Support: You are not alone. Counseling and support for managing mood swings, anxiety, and depression associated with menopause.

11. Sleep Management Programs: Treatment strategies and plans to address sleep disturbances and improve overall sleep quality.

12. Educational Workshops: Join us for workshops lead by the industry experts covering menopause-related topics, empowering patients with knowledge about symptom management and healthy aging.

13. Pelvic Floor Exercises and Rehabilitation: Recieve access to our network of expert providers and trusted partnership programs to enhance pelvic floor strength and function, addressing issues related to bladder control.

What makes the Chicago Center for Women’s Health stand out? 

Your well-being is our priority. Our practice provides women with customized care plans to you recieve a comprehensive approach to health and well-being during this life stage.

To schedule a menopause management appointment at the Chicago Center for Women’s Health, call the office or request an appointment online today.