Do you regularly wake up in a pool of sweat? If so, did you know that this is one of the most common menopause symptoms? This results in reduced fertility and periods – and although the latter may sound promising – there are a variety of symptoms that can cause extreme discomfort and annoyance.
Here at Gynaesthetics London, we have helped hundreds of women combat the symptoms of perimenopause – the official name for menopausal transition. This is possible through our hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which is the most effective medication for menopause and is typically offered to women over 50.
In this blog, we will outline common menopause symptoms to help you establish whether you’re going through it and how we can help. We will also discuss HRT and whether it is a suitable treatment for you.
Top 5 Common menopause symptoms
1. Irregular periods
One of the most obvious symptoms that will indicate your transition into menopause is that you’re experiencing irregular – or a lack of – periods.
During the perimenopause stage, periods can become unpredictable, as they can come more often, less frequent, heavier or lighter – it all depends on the individual. This will reduce your chance of getting pregnant. However, it is still possible until the point where your periods stop for over 12 months.
2. Frequent urination
In addition to the regular trips you’re taking to the toilet for your period, you will be visiting more frequently, as menopause tends to weaken your bladder.
This weakening also leads to urinary leakage, which can occur whilst laughing, coughing, sneezing and exercising. You will also be more at risk of contracting urinary tract infections, although this can be avoided by drinking more fluids.
3. Hot flashes
This is one of the most common complaints that women deal with during menopause. They are usually referred to as night sweats and can cause disruption to your sleeping pattern. Although, you may also experience excessive perspiration during the day.
Hot flashes can become progressively worse the closer you get to actual menopause. This can be lessened by avoiding spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine – which are known to bring on a hot flush.
4. Memory lapse
Although everybody experiences some form of memory lapse, your forgetfulness will become worse when you’re approaching menopause.
This is due to low oestrogen, which causes serotonin and dopamine levels to dip – affecting your ability to think straight, making it harder for you to complete everyday tasks.
5. Mood swings
You may notice that you’re experiencing enhanced mood swings, which are due to a change in your hormone levels. The perimenopause reduces your hormone levels, resulting in heightened emotions, which can cause depression or anxiety.
This is where hormone replacement therapy is extremely beneficial, as it acts as a substitute for the lost hormones, in order to rebalance your body and mind.
Contact MAS for HRT treatment
Here at Gyneaesthetics London, we offer hormonal therapy treatment to anyone going through menopause to alleviate the above symptoms. These can be offered in the form of skin patches, tablets, creams, implants and rings or pessaries, which all contain HRT.
One of our expert gynaecology consultants will conduct a full assessment to establish whether you are eligible for this treatment and, if so, which method would be the most beneficial for you. These treatments are usually given over a four-year period, as this is usually how long menopausal symptoms last.
To find out more about HRT and menopause, you can read our HRT blog here.
For further information on our menopause and hormonal replacement therapy service, get in touch today by calling us on 0782 597 0530, or alternatively, you can email us at fscott@masgynaecology.com.