Menopause is a wild ride, and we often meet it with a mixed bag of feelings. Yep, menopause is a unique experience, and the transition can stretch out over several years.
So here are the 5 most common questions:
1. Should I start hormone therapy? This is a hot one!
Yes, there’s plenty of scary info out there about hormone therapy and the risk of heart attack, breast cancer, and more. But the study that sparked these fears back in 2002 was limited, focusing on older women. Now, we know hormone therapy is usually safe, especially for women in their 50s and even younger.
That said, try other remedies first: layer your clothes, carry a little fan, and keep cold drinks on hand.
2. How will menopause affect my sex drive? This one is a bit of an interesting topic, but it’s totally natural to wonder about it.
Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to vaginal dryness, which can make sex uncomfortable – and that pain can make you hesitant to even think about getting intimate. But don’t worry, there’s help! Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can make a big difference.
3. Should I take natural supplements for my symptoms? Seen any ads online promising to banish your hot flashes or give you a better night’s sleep with “natural” remedies? You’ve probably also heard about plant-based “bioidentical” hormones that supposedly mirror your body’s own.
Here’s the deal: very few of these plant and herbal supplements have been proven safe or effective. They’re not tightly regulated, and some can pack a powerful punch of estrogen, progesterone, or even testosterone – which could mess with your body. Plus, they can interfere with other meds you’re on.
So, please pass on that!
4. I haven’t had a period in years. Do I still need my yearly ob-gyn visit? Absolutely! Even if you’re done with periods, birth control, and all that, you still need to see your ob-gyn regularly. They full-spectrum care for women, including screenings for cancer, STIs, and discussions about issues like urinary incontinence or sexual health.
5. Do I still need Pap tests and mammograms after menopause? Yup, you do! You should continue getting Pap tests until age 65 unless you have risk factors for cervical cancer, like HIV. Even if you’ve had a hysterectomy, you may still need screening.
As for mammograms, most women at low risk of breast cancer can stop at 75.
A New Adventure
Menopause is a natural part of life, and with open communication, you can tackle any worries and get the support you need. Let's continue unpacking it here!
