Menopause and Hormonal Changes: Navigating the Transition

Hormonal Changes During Menopause:

Menopause is the time in a woman’s life that marks the end of her menstrual cycles. It is diagnosed after she has gone 12 or more months without a menstrual period. Menopause signals that the woman no longer has the ability to have children. Menopause normally occurs in middle age between 45 to 52 years of age. However in some cases it can start in your 30s or in your 50s.

The production of the hormones progesterone and oestrogen drops. This prevents the ovaries from producing eggs. The transition period when periods reduce in frequency and before menopause begins is called perimenopause. 

The sharp decline in oestrogen occurs towards the end of the perimenopause. It is known for causing the symptoms associated with menopause like hot flushes, vaginal dryness, and memory issues. Declining progesterone levels can also cause menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness. This is because progesterone helps to thicken the mucus in the cervix but when its levels decline it can lead to vaginal dryness.

How to Navigate the Transition:

Perimenopause, a stage preceding menopause, can be treated through various medications. For effective management of perimenopausal symptoms, individuals can explore suitable Menopause Treatment options, such as the services provided by chennaigynaecologist.com clinic known for their expertise in menopause treatment in Chennai. Here are some of the medications that can be used:

• Hormone therapy:

Systemic oestrogen therapy is an effective treatment option for perimenopausal and menopausal hot flashes and night sweats. It comes in pill, skin patch, spray, gel or cream form. 

• Vaginal oestrogen:

Oestrogen can be administered in the vagina using a vaginal tablet, cream or ring. This causes a small amount of oestrogen to be released which is absorbed by the vaginal tissue.

• Antidepressants:

Certain antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may help reduce hot flashes. If, for health reasons, a woman can’t take oestrogen, then an antidepressant for management of hot flashes may be used for women who need an antidepressant for a mood disorder.

• Gabapentin (Neurontin):

Gabapentin has also been shown to help reduce menopausal hot flashes. This drug is useful for women who cannot take oestrogen therapy for health reasons and for those who have migraines.

• Fezolinetant (Veozah):

This is a hormone-free medicine. It is used for treating hot flashes. It blocks a pathway in the brain that helps regulate your body temperature.

Where to Go for Treatment?

If you are going through menopause and want some help during the transition, then come to the Chennai Gynaecology Clinic. We have many gynaecologists who will be more than happy to help you in this significant time of your life.