The Menopause is a natural process that all women go through, most commonly in their 40’s or 50’s – but it can happen earlier or later than this depending on the individual. It’s caused by a natural decrease in the production of Oestrogen as a woman ages, slowly stopping ovulation (the production of eggs). A drop in oestrogen levels also leads to lower levels of progesterone, resulting in an absence of menstrual periods. The menopause can also be triggered by events like surgery to remove the ovaries or uterus, cancer treatments, etc.
The menopause is officially marked one year after your last natural period – or 2 years if you are younger than 50 – but the time up to this point is called the “perimenopause”, which can be the time when women experience their menopause symptoms most severely.
Common symptoms of the menopause include hot flashes, brain fog, fatigue, migraines and changes to sleep, mood, libido, memory, and more – but the list of symptoms and changes to body or mind that women experience during this time is extensive, and can vary hugely between individuals.
Therapy for menopause symptoms often include:
- Lifestyle changes to optimise the natural system enabling less severe symptoms which are more manageable
- Nutritional changes to help the body with vitamins minerals supplements and the right food to reduce symptoms
- Dealing with mental health to reduce the impact of symptoms
- HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy): low-dose hormones to replace declining oestrogen and progesterone and relieve symptoms of menopause
- Other therapies can be beneficial depending on the symptoms
While it’s something that 50% of the population will go through, there are still stigmas around menopause, lack of understanding and awareness, and gaps in healthcare for the women going through it.
A recent landmark study by the Fawcett Society of over 4,000 women showed that 45% of those surveyed hadn’t spoken to their GP about their symptoms – despite 77% saying at least one of their symptoms was “very difficult” to manage. A third of those that did see their GP said it took several appointments for the GP to realise they were experiencing the menopause, and only 39% said they were offered HRT treatment.
At Dr Finlays, we are acutely aware that each woman’s experience with the menopause is entirely unique. Women need bespoke care and advice from their doctor during this time, applicable and tailored to their own experience.
Our expert clinicians will take time to get to know you, your symptoms and the effect they have on your life; then create a bespoke action plan to test, treat and manage symptoms in a sustainable way – including referrals to our other specialists such as the in house psychologist or nutritionist at Dr Finlays.
Alongside providing care, we strive to ensure you understand your treatment options and put you back in control over your menopause journey. We aim for our patients to feel empowered through knowledge to feel like themselves again, and we’re here to support them every step of the way.
If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms, you can book a consultation via our website or by giving the team a call on 0121 3961323.