Menopause, the permanent cessation of menstruation, is a natural transition that all women experience typically between the ages of 45 and 55. While it marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, it’s important to remember that it’s not an illness.

Many women experience a variety of symptoms during menopause, such as hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life. However, the good news is that effective treatments are available to help manage these symptoms and empower women to feel their best during this transition.

Dr Nargis Noori understands the challenges that menopause can present. Dr Nargis provides compassionate and comprehensive menopause care, tailored to your individual needs and preferences. We’ll work with you to develop a personalised plan that addresses your specific symptoms and goals, helping you navigate this new chapter with confidence.

Understanding Menopause: The Hormonal Shift & It’s Effect

Menopause is primarily driven by a significant decline in the production of oestrogen and progesterone, the two key female hormones. As a woman approaches menopause, her ovaries gradually produce less of these hormones, leading to the cessation of menstruation on the onset of various symptoms.

The hormonal fluctuations during menopause can manifest in a wide range of physical and emotional changes, including:

Physical Symptoms

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia, difficulty falling asleep)
• Decreased libido
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Joint and muscle pain
• Changes in skin elasticity and hair growth

Emotional Symptoms

• Mood swings and irritability
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”
  • Memory problems

In addition to these immediate effects, menopause can also increase the risk of certain long-term health issues, such as:

• Osteoporosis: The decrease in oestrogen levels can lead to bone loss, making women more susceptible to fractures.
• Heart Disease: Oestrogen plays a protective role in heart health, so its decline can elevate the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Understanding these hormonal changes and their potential consequences is crucial for women to make informed decisions about their health and well-being during menopause.

Lifestyle Modifications for Menopause: Taking Charge of Your Well-Being

Making positive lifestyle changes can significantly improve your experience during menopause and beyond. Here are some key areas to focus on:

Healthy Diet

• Prioritise fruits and vegetables: Aim for a variety of colourful produce to ensure you’re getting a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Choose whole grains: Opt for whole-grain bread, pasta, and brown rice over refined options for added fibre and sustained energy.
• Include lean protein sources: Fish, poultry, beans, and lentils are great choices for maintaining muscle mass and managing weight.
• Focus on calcium and vitamin D: These nutrients are essential for bone health, especially during menopause when the risk of osteoporosis increases. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods can help you meet your daily requirements.
• Limit processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats: These can exacerbate menopausal symptoms and contribute to weight gain.

Regular Exercise

• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week: Activities like brisk walking, swimming, or dancing can help maintain bone density, improve mood, and reduce stress.
• Incorporate strength training: Lifting weights or using resistance bands helps build muscle and supports strong bones.

Stress Management

• Explore relaxation techniques: Yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help reduce stress and improve sleep.
• Connect with others: Spending time with loved ones or joining a support group can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Prioritise self-care: Make time for activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature.

Sleep Hygiene

• Establish a regular sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Avoid screens for at least an hour before bed, take a warm bath, or read a book to wind down.
• Make your sleep environment comfortable: Ensure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol: These can interfere with sleep quality.

By incorporating these lifestyle modifications into your routine, you can take proactive steps to manage menopausal symptoms, improve your overall health, and enjoy a more vibrant and fulfilling life.

Medical Hormone Therapy (MHT): Weighing the Benefits and Risks for Menopause Relief

Hormone therapy (HT) involves supplementing the body with oestrogen, progesterone, or a combination of both to alleviate menopausal symptoms caused by the decline in these hormones. It can be administered in various forms, including pills, patches, gels, creams, or vaginally.

Types of Hormone Therapy

• Systemic Hormone Therapy: This type delivers hormones throughout the body and is typically used to treat moderate to severe hot flashes, night sweats, and other systemic symptoms. It is available in oral and transdermal (patch or gel)forms.
• Local Hormone Therapy: This type focuses on delivering low doses of oestrogen directly to the vagina to alleviate vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, and urinary issues. Benefits of Hormone Therapy:
• Effective Relief from Menopausal Symptoms: MHT is highly effective in reducing hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances.
• Improved Mood and Emotional Well-being: MHT can help alleviate mood swings, anxiety, and depression associated with menopause.
• Protection Against Osteoporosis: MHT can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

Risks of Hormone Therapy

• Potential Increased Risk of Blood Clots, Stroke, and Heart Disease:* The risk varies depending on the type and duration of MHT, as well as individual risk factors.
• Increased Risk of Breast Cancer:* This risk is associated with long-term use of combined oestrogen and progesterone therapy.
• Other Potential Side Effects:* These may include breast tenderness, bloating, headaches, and mood changes.
• Dr Nargis believes in a personalised approach to hormone therapy. We carefully assess each patient’s individual risk factors, medical history, and preferences before recommending MHT. We discuss the potential benefits and risks in detail to ensure that our patients are fully informed and can make the best decision for their health.

Alternative Options

For patients who prefer non-hormonal options or who are not candidates for MHT, we offer various alternatives, such as:

• Non-hormonal medications: These can help manage hot flashes and other symptoms.
• Lifestyle modifications: As discussed earlier, diet, exercise, stress management, and sleep hygiene can significantly improve menopausal symptoms.
• Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants: These can provide relief from vaginal dryness and discomfort.

We are committed to exploring all available treatment options to help our patients find the most effective and safest approach to managing their menopausal symptoms.

Non-Hormonal Treatment Options: Effective Alternatives for Menopause Relief

For women who prefer to avoid hormone therapy or have contraindications, several effective non-hormonal treatment options are available:

Medications

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): These antidepressants, typically prescribed at lower doses than for depression, have been shown to effectively reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes. 
• Gabapentin: This anticonvulsant medication is also effective in reducing hot flashes and can be particularly helpful for women who experience night sweats.

Vaginal Lubricants & Moisturisers

• Over-the-counter options: Water-based or silicone-based lubricants can provide relief from vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse.
• Vaginal moisturisers: These can be used regularly to hydrate and soothe vaginal tissues.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT):

• A non-medication approach: CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours.
• Effective for mood and sleep: CBT can be beneficial for managing mood swings, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances associated with menopause.

By discussing your symptoms and medical history with your doctor, you can determine the most suitable non-hormonal treatment options for your individual needs. Remember, a combination of lifestyle changes and non-hormonal therapies can often provide significant relief from menopausal symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.

Personalised Menopause Treatment Plans: Your Unique Journey to Wellness

Dr Nargis understands that menopause is a unique experience for each woman. Symptoms, severity, and personal preferences vary greatly, which is why we believe in the importance of individualised care.

Our Approach

1. Comprehensive Assessment: We begin with a thorough consultation, where we listen attentively to your concerns, discuss your medical history, and assess your current symptoms. We consider your lifestyle, preferences, and any existing health conditions.
2. Personalised Treatment Plan: Based on your individual needs and goals, we develop a customised treatment plan that may include a combination of lifestyle modifications, hormone therapy, non-hormonal medications, and other therapies. We discuss all options with you, explaining the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of each approach.
3. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustment: We schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan as needed, and address any new concerns or questions you may have. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the most effective and appropriate care throughout your menopause journey. We will involve your regular general practioner (GP) in your ongoing care.

Take the First Step

If you’re experiencing menopausal symptoms or have questions about treatment options, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr Nargis Noori. We are committed to providing compassionate, personalised care that empowers you to navigate menopause with confidence and embrace this new chapter in your life with vitality.

Dr Nargis Noori is an experienced obstetrician and gynaecologist, and is committed to empowering women through every stage of life, including the menopausal transition. We understand that this can be a challenging time, but it doesn’t have to be a struggle. With a variety of effective treatment options available, you can find relief from your symptoms and embrace this new chapter with confidence.

Ready to take the next step? We invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr Nargis Noori. We’ll work together to develop a personalised menopause treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals, helping you live your best life during and after menopause.