Menopause
Menopause is the time in women’s lives when menstrual periods stop permanently and they’re no longer able to have children. It’s a normal condition all women experience as they age.
Overview and Symptoms
Symptoms of menopause include night sweats, hot flashes, mood fluctuations and cognitive changes.Treatment
Many women require no treatment for menopause; however, if symptoms significantly affect your life, you should see a doctor.
Treatments depend on the symptoms and include:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to increase a woman’s estrogen levels and relieve many menopausal symptoms.
- Low-dose antidepressants to help decrease menopausal hot flashes.
- Gabapentin and Clonidine, medications used to treat hot flashes.
- Osteoporosis medications used to reduce bone loss and risk of fractures.
- Vaginal estrogen, a medication used to treat vaginal dryness.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at BIDMC provides outstanding care for all women throughout their lives, in a friendly, comfortable and safe environment.