Menopause

Menopause, which often happens to women in their 40s or 50s, can contribute to a variety of unwanted symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, hot flashes, and mood changes. At Ione Medical in Santa Fe, New Mexico, skilled nurse practitioner Rebecca Fredman, CNP, AGNP-C, treats symptoms of menopause to restore your physical and mental well-being. If you would like to learn more about what Ione Medical has to offer, please use our online booking system to request a consultation today.

What is menopause?

Menopause is defined as a point in time when you have gone 12 months without a menstrual period. 

Many women do not have menstrual periods due to various factors, so determining menopausal status is not always straightforward. Surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy) or ovaries (oophorectomy), use of certain medications, or a history of chemotherapy or radiation for cancer treatment are some factors that could impact your menstrual cycles. 

During menopause, your body stops producing the same amount of estrogen — the female hormone responsible for reproduction — that it did when you were younger. Reduced levels of estrogen are what make your body stop ovulating. But lower estrogen often brings other symptoms, like hot flashes, weight gain, and vaginal discomfort, in addition to affecting your menstrual cycles.

When does menopause occur?

The average age of menopause for women in the United States is around 51 years. However, it can happen as early as 45 and rarely as late as 60. Menopause that occurs before age 45 is typically considered early, and menopause after age 54 is typically considered late. 

I do not have periods. How do I know if I am menopausal?

If you do not have menstrual cycles, a medical provider experienced in the treatment of menopause symptoms can determine your menopausal status with lab work.

Although menopause is a normal transition, the significant shift in hormone levels can impact your health and well-being and increase your risk of several medical conditions, including osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

For many women, menopause contributes to many distressing symptoms, including:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Mood changes
• Hair and skin changes
• Decreased mental clarity
• Vaginal changes
• Decreased libido
• Insomnia

If you are struggling with menopausal symptoms, please know that help is available. Ione Medical specializes in evidence-based interventions to help you reclaim your vitality and quality of life.

It is not normal to feel bad, and no one should be telling you otherwise! If you're experiencing menopause symptoms, please request a consultation using our online booking feature today.