What are the best ways to deal with menopause symptoms?

Once you reach middle age and begin going through “The Change,” you probably don’t quite know what to expect. Your friends and relatives who’ve already been through it have likely told you plenty of horror stories about their own experiences, and each of them would have you believe that theirs were among the worst. But they all successfully got through it, and so will you!

Central Clinic for Women is conveniently located on the Baptist Health campus in Little Rock, and our all-woman team is proud to offer compassionate, holistic healthcare for women at every stage of life. Every woman is different, and we’re here to offer personalized care and guidance to help you navigate through the menopause journey with confidence and comfort. Our services include annual women’s health and cervical cancer screenings, bone health assessments, 3D mammograms, and individualized care to address your specific needs and concerns. Here are the answers to a few common questions about menopause, and we’re always a phone call away if we didn’t answer your specific questions below:

When does menopause begin? Most women start menopause in their early 50s, though some begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-to-late 40s. Your periods will start to become irregular and shorter before stopping completely, and you’ll know you’ve reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period or spotting.

What are the symptoms of menopause? Menopause marks the stage of life when you can no longer get pregnant, triggered by a natural decline in estrogen and progesterone production. The process is often accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, insomnia, mood swings, and difficulty maintaining a healthy weight. Menopause presents differently in all women, and you should contact us for immediate follow-up if you experience any new or worsening symptoms.

What can I do to alleviate the symptoms of menopause? We can help you treat some of your symptoms with medication, but that’s not nearly as important as managing stress, eating right, and exercising! Moderate your intake of red meat, caffeine, and alcohol, and eat a diet rich in fruits, grains, and healthy fats. And if you smoke, quit now!

Contact us online or at (501) 227-5885 today to schedule a menopause care appointment or to find a trusted gynecologist Little Rock.