Menopause is a natural transition that all women experience as they reach midlife. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. The average age of menopause is 51, but it can occur earlier or later.
As women approach menopause, they may experience various symptoms caused by hormonal fluctuations and declining estrogen levels. Common menopausal symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, irregular periods, difficulty sleeping, mood changes, and weight gain. Some women experience mild symptoms, while others struggle with more severe symptoms that disrupt their quality of life.
Hormone therapy can provide relief for menopause symptoms. Treatment often consists of estrogen alone or a combination of estrogen and progestin. Estrogen therapy helps manage hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal symptoms, and may help prevent bone loss. The addition of progestin helps protect the uterine lining from potential cancer risk associated with estrogen therapy alone.
There are three main types of hormone therapy:
Hormone therapy is very effective for relieving menopausal symptoms when started at the time of menopause. Treatment is individualized and the lowest effective dose should be used. Duration of use depends on a woman's risk factors and preferences. Most women can take hormone therapy safely for 4-5 years. Some choose to continue longer-term.
Discussing options with a menopause specialist can help determine if hormone therapy is appropriate. Routine follow-up and monitoring of health risks is important while on treatment.
The providers at Balance Hormone Center in Tulsa specialize in menopause management and hormone therapy. We develop customized treatment plans to help women find relief from their symptoms during this transition.
At your first appointment, we conduct a thorough evaluation including:
We take time to understand factors unique to each woman. Our providers have expertise in complex menopause cases like early or premature menopause. We also routinely manage medical conditions interrelated with menopause like thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, and heart disease risks.
After a comprehensive assessment, we explain hormone therapy options and make therapy recommendations. The goal is to find the optimal regimen, dosing, and delivery method to meet your individual needs.
We offer all types of hormone therapy including:
Follow-up visits monitor your response to therapy and any side effects. We adjust treatment as needed over time for sustained symptom relief and hormone balance. We partner with you throughout the menopause transition and beyond.
Addressing menopause symptoms and hormone changes promptly can help women feel their best during this transition. Benefits of starting treatment in a timely manner include:
The providers at Balance Hormone Center leverage their expertise to identify subtle hormone deficiencies early. We develop tailored regimens specific to a woman's symptoms and hormone lab results.
Through prompt optimization of hormone balance, most women feel markedly better within a few weeks of starting therapy. We partner with patients to adjust treatment as needed until they achieve sustained relief.
A healthy lifestyle can lessen menopause symptoms and reduce health risks as women transition through menopause. We provide lifestyle guidance on:
A holistic approach combines hormone therapy with a menopause-friendly lifestyle for optimal wellbeing. We provide resources and counseling to help women implement sustainable self-care and coping strategies.
Many women going through menopause find relief from symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats through lifestyle changes like staying cool, limiting spicy foods and alcohol, regular exercise, and trying mindfulness techniques. Hormone therapy is also an effective option for symptom management under the guidance of a doctor.
Accurate hormone testing guides safe and effective hormone therapy. We utilize top labs in Tulsa like Quest Diagnostics. Recommended assessments include:
We will order additional testing based on your health profile and symptoms. Blood draws can be conveniently performed at facilities like Quest Diagnostics Tulsa or LabCorp Tulsa.
Monitoring hormonal balance and health risks at regular intervals is key to successful long-term therapy. We utilize testing to optimize treatment and enhance safety.
Tulsa offers excellent amenities and resources for women navigating menopause. The moderate four-season climate is a benefit for managing menopause symptoms year-round.
Spring and fall tend to be times when women experience fewer hot flashes and sleep disruptions. The pleasant temperatures in March-May and September-November are optimal for initiating hormone therapy. Outdoor activities like walking and yoga help manage stress. Visiting Tulsa Botanic Garden can lift your mood.
Winter months can worsen some menopause symptoms, but taking vitamin D helps. Using a humidifier at home prevents dry air that can provoke hot flashes and night sweats. Sipping hot tea, layering clothing, and using extra blankets ensure your comfort.
Summer heat and humidity may increase hot flashes and irritability. Stay cool using air conditioning, drinking ice water with lemon or mint, using battery operated handheld fans, and wearing breathable cotton clothing. Swimming, water aerobics or indoor cycling at the YMCA help you stay active.
Balance Hormone Center partners with women year-round to ensure symptom control and hormone balance in Tulsa's dynamic climate. We adjust therapy based on seasonality and lifestyle factors.
Local resources like Heartland Psychiatric Associates provide counseling for depression, anxiety, sexual health, and relationship support. We coordinate care with mental health providers to address the whole woman during menopause.
Women in the Tulsa area can thrive during the menopause transition with proper care and resources. At Balance Hormone Center, we leverage the specialized expertise of our Tulsa menopause clinic to help every woman navigate this life stage smoothly. We provide proven therapies, personalized care, and compassionate support. Contact us today to learn more and take charge of your menopausal health.
