Menopause

Menopause Specialist

Menopause can be a challenging time for women today. The OB/GYNs at Mid-Kansas Women's Center PA in Wichita, KS offer the support and guidance women need to navigate menopause as easily as possible.

Menopause Q & A

What is Menopause?

Menopause is the natural transition that occurs when a woman reaches the end of her fertility. A woman in menopause has reduced ovary function, lowered estrogen levels, and lowered levels of other hormones as well. Menopause is typically confirmed when a woman has not had a period for 12 months in a row, excluding other conditions that may cause women to miss periods.

What is the Average Age Women Start Menopause?

On average, women enter menopause around the age of 51. For the majority of women, menopause will begin at some point between ages 45 and 55, but it can happen earlier or later as well.

What Changes Occur During Menopause?

Every woman has their own unique menopause experience. Menopause starts with irregular periods that will taper off until they cease completely. Some women have hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, frequent mood swings, vaginal dryness, and memory lapses. These changes typically resolve once menopause is over, although things like vaginal dryness may continue. Whether the menopause changes are minor or major, an experienced OB/GYN can help patients move through this period as comfortably and easily as possible.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy is designed to replace the hormones that the body is missing due to menopause. This type of therapy can come in several forms, including pills, patches, gels, and sprays. Hormone replacement is highly effective at resolving difficult menopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. This type of therapy is often an excellent way to increase a woman's comfort level during menopause, but it may not be needed for every person. Patients should talk to their OB/GYN about what type of therapy would be most effective for the relief of their particular menopause symptoms. There are also herbal remedies designed to alleviate menopause symptoms, but patients should always talk to their doctor about effectiveness and safety before trying them.