Are You Showing Symptoms of Menopause?

Menopause occurs as your body’s production of estrogen diminishes with age. It is often accompanied by a variety of symptoms that can cause discomfort and changes in mood. It’s important to maintain your health by visiting your doctor or gynecologist to discuss your symptoms and the treatments that may help.

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are an extremely common symptom of menopause. These flashes cause an intense sensation of heat, most often in the upper body and face. The skin appears flushed and red, and you may break into a sweat. Hot flashes can last for seconds to minutes and occur several times a day.

Night Sweats

Night sweats are frequently associated with hot flashes that occur during sleep. You may wake up feeling extremely warm and drenched in sweat regardless of the temperature of your bedroom. The excessive sweating that occurs during a night sweat can soak through nightclothes and bedding.

Vaginal Dryness

As you undergo menopause, lower levels of estrogen result in less lubrication produced inside the vagina. This leads to dryness and irritation of the skin as the walls of the vagina become thinner. Dryness and lack of adequate lubrication can cause sexual intercourse to feel uncomfortable or even painful.

Mood Changes

Hormonal changes can affect your mood as well. Menopausal women frequently experience mood swings such as sudden irritability, exasperation, and anxiety. Some women also suffer from recurring bouts of depression.

Trouble Sleeping

The natural aging process can work together with the changes you undergo during menopause to affect your natural sleep schedule. You may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, a condition called insomnia. For many women, insomnia is further exacerbated by hot flashes and night sweats.

If you are experiencing signs of menopause, the women’s care providers at Washington Surgi-Clinic can help. Call us today at (202) 659-9403 to find out about our health care services in DC and beyond. You can find more helpful information about our women’s clinic and the importance of maintaining your health on our blog.