Menopause Treatment in Jacksonville, FL

Menopause and Hormone Management

American women have menopause at an average age of 51 years, with 95 percent having their final menstrual period between the ages of 45 and 55 years. Menopause is associated with a marked decrease in ovarian estrogen production. This causes low blood estrogen levels and vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats) in the majority of women. Approximately 50 percent of women eventually develop symptoms of vaginal dryness and painful sex (genitourinary syndrome of menopause [GSM]). Estrogen is the most effective treatment available for relief of hot flashes and for other menopausal symptoms as well. Estrogen is available in many forms: oral, transdermal, topical gels and lotions, vaginal rings, and vaginal creams or suppositories.

We prescribe evidence-based, FDA-approved hormone therapy and tailor these therapies to your individual needs and risks. We also work to identify and prescribe non-hormonal options for women who have contraindications to hormone therapy, such as breast cancer survivors and women with comorbidities such as heart disease.

5 Things
We Want You
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Hormone Therapy

  • Average age of menopause is 51.4years old and presents in many woman with irregular and then absent periods, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes and disrupted sleep.
  • Well-proven benefits you can expect from hormones include reduces hot flashes and night sweats and improved sleep. Less proven are effects on weight gain, moods, hair quality and libido.
  • Risks of hormone therapy after menopause include breast and uterine cancer and blood clots, including stroke and heart attacks. Risks of testosterone in women include breast cancer and enlargement of the clitoris, facial hair, and lowered voice which can be permanent.
  • For women who still have a uterus, any use of estrogen therapy must be accompanied by progesterone to protect the uterine lining from overstimulation and cancers.
  • FDA approved hormone products have heightened surveillance of adverse events and the amount of hormone in the product. Compounded hormone products can vary in terms of how much hormone activity is incorporated.

5 Things
We Want You
To Know About
Vaginal Dryness and Atrophy, Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause

  • Results from the absence of estrogen effect on genital tissues
  • Results in tissues that feel dry, lose elasticity, and have thinning more brittle collagen
  • Changes can be effectively treated with low risk using topical estrogens that come in creams, pills, and glycerin tablets.
  • Non-estrogen treatment is recommended for women at risk of breast cancers and includes vaginal conditions which are numerous and work best if used regularly (3x/week)
  • Regular intercourse can help keep the vagina supple and healthy

Make An Appointment

Have a question about our practice or want to schedule an appointment? Request an appointment online or call us and speak with a member of our team.

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