Menopause and climacterium

When your body changes, and so does how you feel in it

Do you wake up at night feeling hot, sleep worse, or feel drained by things you used to handle easily? The menopausal transition can bring many changes. Some women barely notice it; for others, it affects work, relationships and everyday well-being.

It’s okay to want help. You don’t have to downplay your symptoms or wait until they become unbearable.

What happens during this time

Ovarian function gradually declines and hormone levels change. Periods tend to become irregular and eventually stop. Menopause refers to the last natural menstrual period; it is usually determined in retrospect, after twelve months without bleeding. However, the changes may begin several years earlier.

Besides hot flashes and night sweats, you may experience sleep problems, mood changes, poorer concentration or vaginal dryness. Pain during intercourse, burning and some urinary problems can also be linked to hormonal changes. However, similar symptoms can also have other causes.

We start with what is bothering you

During the consultation, we want to know which changes bother you most and how long they have lasted. We will go over your health, medications and family history. The menopausal transition can often be assessed based on symptoms and cycle changes, without extensive hormone testing. If the changes appear unusually early or something is unclear, we will recommend further tests.

Relief can take different forms

Regular exercise, sleep, a varied diet and limiting alcohol can help, but on their own they may not resolve your symptoms. Depending on their nature, both hormonal and non-hormonal treatments can be used.

Menopausal hormone therapy can significantly relieve hot flashes and night sweats. However, it is not suitable for every woman. Before starting it, we assess factors such as previous thrombosis, liver disease, certain cancers or unexplained bleeding. We will discuss the benefits and risks with you based on your health.

If you still have your uterus, systemic estrogen therapy also requires protection of the uterine lining with a progestogen. We choose the form and dose individually and evaluate at follow-ups whether the treatment suits you. Menopausal hormone therapy is also not a substitute for contraception.

With some regimens, there may be an increased risk of blood clots, stroke or breast cancer; this depends on the type of treatment, how it is given and how long it is used. Spotting or breast tenderness may also occur at first. If new or persistent problems appear, get in touch.

If you don’t want hormones or they are not suitable for you, we will discuss other options. Vaginal moisturizers, lubricants or local hormonal treatment can help with vaginal dryness. We also assess its suitability individually, especially after cancer.

You don’t have to keep intimate problems to yourself

Pain during intercourse or a change in sexual interest may not be easy to describe. Even so, you can tell us about them. We will look for solutions that respect your needs, without judgment and without pressure about how you “should” feel.

When a checkup is important

Any bleeding after twelve months without a natural period needs to be examined. Also get in touch if you have unusual bleeding during treatment or problems that significantly disrupt your life.

If you experience sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, swelling in one leg or sudden difficulty speaking or moving, seek urgent help.