Postmenopause

Alternate Names : Change of Life

What are the treatments for the condition?

While menopause itself is not treated, the symptoms that go along with menopause are sometimes treated. All of the risks due to estrogen loss may be prevented or treated. Some ways to do this include making lifestyle changes and taking hormone replacement therapy. Calcium supplements may be taken by those women who do not get enough calcium through their diet.

Urinary tract infections may come back again and again. To prevent these infections, a woman should urinate frequently, especially before and after sexual intercourse. She should also drink plenty of fluids and keep the genital area very clean.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects of HRT can include headaches, bloating, and irritability.

Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy may increase the number of women who get breast cancer. If a woman has a family history of breast cancer, menstruated before age 12, or delayed pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy may not be advised. Women who are at higher risk of developing blood clots may also be unable to use hormone replacement therapy.

The American Heart Association recently issued recommendations about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women. For women who have already had a heart attack or have heart disease, it appears that HRT does not protect against having another heart attack or dying from heart disease. The studies that support this information were done with women over 65 years of age. It is unclear if this information also holds true for younger postmenopausal women who take HRT.

For women who have not already had a heart attack or who do not have heart disease, HRT should not be started for the sole purpose of preventing heart disease. The research is not strong enough to support doing that at this time. Also, it is not necessary for a woman to stop HRT if she is doing well on it.

Overall, the decision to use HRT should be based upon the proven benefits and risks of HRT. Women should discuss the benefits and risks with their healthcare provider. Together, they can choose the most appropriate course of action. A woman who is using hormone replacement therapy during perimenopause may want to reassess using HRT after menopause.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Most symptoms of menopause go away after a woman stops getting her period.

How is the condition monitored?

Postmenopause is monitored by yearly gynecological exams. If a woman has menstrual bleeding 6 months or more after her last period, she should contact her healthcare provider. Any new or worsening symptoms should also be reported to the healthcare provider.