Menopause treatment online

Menopause is a natural transition that occurs when the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. It can cause a wide range of symptoms that vary in intensity and duration. Common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes – sudden warmth, often most intense over the face, neck, and chest
• Night sweats – episodes of excessive sweating during sleep
• Irregular periods – changes in menstrual cycle frequency, flow, or duration before periods stop completely
• Vaginal dryness – reduced moisture and elasticity, often causing discomfort during sex
• Mood swings – emotional instability, irritability, or increased risk of anxiety and depression
• Sleep disturbances – trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early
• Weight gain – especially around the abdomen, due to hormonal and metabolic shifts
• Thinning hair or dry skin – changes in skin texture and hair volume
• Decreased libido – lower interest in or satisfaction from sexual activity
• Memory problems or difficulty concentrating – often referred to as “brain fog”
• Joint and muscle aches – generalized pain or stiffness
• Frequent urination or urinary tract infections – due to changes in bladder and urethral tissue

These symptoms can significantly affect quality of life, but personalized treatment options are available to help manage them effectively.

Diagnosis typically involves a review of symptoms and medical history. Providers may recommend:

• A detailed discussion of menstrual cycle changes
• Physical examination, including pelvic exam
• Blood tests to check levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, or thyroid hormones
• Additional lab tests to rule out other causes of symptoms
• Evaluation of lifestyle and risk factors to guide treatment

If symptoms significantly affect quality of life, providers may prescribe medication. Options include:

Hormone therapy medications

• Conjugated estrogens (Premarin): FDA-approved for treating hot flashes and vaginal symptoms
• Estradiol (Estrace, Climara, Vivelle-Dot): Oral or patch formulations for systemic relief
• Estrogen and progestin combinations (Prempro, Activella): For individuals with a uterus to prevent endometrial cancer
• Vaginal estrogen (Estring, Vagifem, Imvexxy): Treats vaginal dryness and irritation

Non-hormonal prescription medications

• Paroxetine (Brisdelle): FDA-approved selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for hot flashes
• Venlafaxine (Effexor XR): Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) often used off-label for symptom management
• Gabapentin (Neurontin): Helps reduce night sweats and hot flashes
• Clonidine (Catapres): Occasionally prescribed for vasomotor symptoms
• Veozah (fezolinetant): FDA-approved non-hormonal neurokonin 3 (NK3) receptor antagonist for moderate to severe hot flashes and carries a Boxed Warning for rare but serious liver injury.

Your provider can determine which medication, if any, is medically appropriate for your symptoms and health profile.