Hunter Gynaecology

Newcastle Gynaecologist Dr Gracia Chong

02 4920 9544
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Menopause

Also known as the “change of life”, menopause refers to a woman’s final period. This happens naturally for most women between the ages of 45-55, or surgically if ovaries have been removed. Experiencing menopause before the age of 40 is known as premature menopause.

The transition into menopause (or peri-menopause) can be associated with irregular periods, mood changes, irritability & fatigue, hot flushes & sweats, vaginal dryness and loss of libido. Most women will have mild symptoms, but some women experience severe symptoms, and some have no symptoms at all.

What happens after menopause?

  • You may experience vaginal dryness and discomfort, especially during intercourse
  • You may experience urgency to urinate or loss of control over your bladder
  • Your bone density may decrease, putting you at risk of osteoporosis and fractures
  • Your mood may change, you may feel anxious or depressed

What can I do about it?

Treatment of menopausal symptoms depends on each individual woman – her lifestyle, relationships, health and wellbeing. These can include:

  • natural & lifestyle therapies
  • hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
  • other prescription medications

It is also important to look after your overall health when you have gone through menopause, and this includes:

  • Regular mammograms and cervical screens
  • Maintaining a healthy diet and weight. Your diet should include adequate calcium intake for bone health.
  • Regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks for cardiovascular health
  • Regular exercise and avoidance of smoking
  • Seeking medical attention if you have any vaginal bleeding (postmenopausal bleeding) after stopping your periods naturally for 12 months.
  • Contraception
  • Endometriosis
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding & fibroids
  • Hysterectomy
  • Infertility
  • Menopause
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Pap smear abnormalities and colposcopy
  • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
  • Postmenopausal bleeding (PMB)
  • Prolapse & pelvic floor repair
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Urodynamic study
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