For a woman in her late 40s, menopause marks the end of her reproductive life.
Hormone output from the ovaries declines and menstrual periods become irregular and then disappear.
Four out of five women experience physical symptoms with menopause,
including hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
Other symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, or headaches, can coincide with menopause,
but may be caused by other changes occurring in a woman's life.
The symptoms vary for each woman and so do the treatments.
Dr. Laura Feldman says taking estrogen is safe and effective for some women, but not for others.
It's important for women entering menopause to see their physician.
A review of their medical history and a thorough physical exam will help to determine
whether the woman is a good candidate for estrogen therapy.
Most women can tolerate estrogen and for them it's safe and effective,
but some women can't take estrogen because of their medical histories.
Good health habits can make the post-menopausal years vital ones.
This good health message is brought to you by the American Osteopathic Association.