Menopause Treatment

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is formally defined as the point reached once 12 months have passed since a woman’s final menstrual period, marking the natural decline in ovarian hormone production. It is not an illness but a physiological life stage that every woman goes through.

The lead-up to menopause, known as perimenopause, typically unfolds over several years and often makes itself known through irregular periods and a range of symptoms. Once menopause has occurred, the phase that follows is referred to as postmenopause.

Perimenopause and Menopause Symptoms

Every woman moves through the menopause transition differently. Symptoms that are frequently reported include:

Vasomotor symptoms:

• Hot flashes (a sudden sensation of a heat wave)
• Night sweats and sleep disturbances

Urogenital symptoms:

• Vaginal dryness and irritation
• Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Frequent urination or urinary incontinence

Psychological and cognitive symptoms:

• Mood changes, irritability, anxiety
• Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness
• Low energy

Physical changes:

• Skin dryness and loss of elasticity
• Hair thinning
• Joint pain
• Weight changes

Treatment Options

In Prof. Dr. Melahat Atasever’s Ankara practice, managing menopause is never one-size-fits-all; the approach depends on how pronounced the symptoms are, the woman’s overall health history, and her personal preferences. The main options are outlined below:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Medication containing estrogen and progesterone can be particularly helpful in easing vasomotor symptoms. When the uterus has not been removed, progesterone must be combined with estrogen. Whether HRT is beneficial and appropriate is assessed individually by your physician.

Non-hormonal medication options: For hot flashes, certain antidepressants, antiepileptic medications, and other alternatives may be considered.

Local treatments: Vaginal dryness and other urogenital symptoms may respond to low-dose local applications, such as vaginal estrogen cream, tablets, or a ring.

Lifestyle adjustments:

• A balanced diet with attention to adequate calcium and vitamin D
• Regular physical activity (supporting bone density and cardiovascular health)
• Limiting alcohol intake and avoiding smoking
• Techniques for managing stress

Long-Term Health Risks and Follow-Up

Certain health risks may shift after menopause, which is why ongoing follow-up matters:

Bone health (Osteoporosis): Bone density screening (DEXA), calcium and vitamin D supplementation, and medication when needed.

Cardiovascular health: Regular monitoring of cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar, along with healthy lifestyle guidance.

Gynecological check-ups: Yearly examinations, cervical screening, and mammography where indicated.

Talk to Your Physician

If menopausal symptoms are interfering with your daily life, or if any aspect of this transition concerns you, speaking with your physician is recommended. Since every woman’s experience differs considerably, the most appropriate approach can only be identified through an individual assessment.

Open communication between doctor and patient remains central to making this transition as smooth and manageable as possible.