Menopause and Peri-menopause can cause profound physical, emotional, and psychological changes in women during their climacteric years. Hot flashes, osteoporosis, estrogen replacement therapy, irregular uterine bleeding, sleep disturbances, mammograms, bladder problems, mood swings and abnormal Pap smears are some of the issues faced by all women during this time. Hormone Replacement Therapy and other treatments can be very helpful during this time.
The Menopause Center is a medical facility staffed with caring physicians and professionals in tune with the physical changes we experience as we mature. The latest medical information with the most contemporary care for the menopausal woman is available at the Center.
Complete medical care for Menopausal Women
with specialized concerns...
- Hot flashes
The most common of menopause symptoms. A feeling of heat sweeps over the upper body due to an increased flow of blood to the skin and may bring a blush or perspiration to the skin. Hot flashe menopause symptoms are treated with estrogen replacement.
- Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition of calcium loss in menopausal women that weakens the bone structure causing painful fractures. These fractures lead to physical deformity, loss of height, and debilitation. Bone density scans may detect bone thinning, but the only way to cure osteoporosis is to prevent it. Besides calcium, vitamin D and exercise, there are various hormone regimens and other medicines that help maintain bone integrity.
- Estrogen/Hormone Replacement Therapy
Treatment to relieve the major menopause symptoms usually involves hormone replacement therapy with the replacement of the hormone estrogen. Androgens may also be part of the hormone replacement therapy regimen. Each woman's hormone replacement therapy is custom-tailored to her individual needs.
- Hormone tests
These tests help your doctor determine the stage of menopause you are experiencing, as well as evaluate your thyroid function. Hormone tests monitor the dosage and combination of hormone replacement therapy you may need as you go through menopause.
- Mammograms
An x-ray of the breast used in the detection of breast cancer. Routine exams are important, since the risk of breast cancer increases with age.
- Bladder problems
Menopausal women may experience a loss of bladder control as a menopause symptom. Many patients' problems can be solved medically and should be discussed with a physician.
- Irregular bleeding
In older women, irregular bleeding in their menstrual cycle can be a menopause symptom or a sign of a problem in the endometrium or the uterus. Irregular uterine bleeding should be brought to the attention of your doctor.
- Pap Smear
An internal exam where cells from the cervix (the opening of the uterus) are removed and tested for any evidence of disease or cancer. Newer techniques have improved the accuracy of the annual Pap smear.
- Fibroids
These are benign growths on the walls of the uterus. They can cause painful, irregular bleeding, and put pressure on the bladder or bowel. Fibroids tend to shrink after the onset of menopause, so generally they are left alone unless severe symptoms occur.
- Cholesterol and diabetes screening
Regular testing of your cholesterol and early detection of diabetes are easy preventative measures in reducing your health risks as you get older.
- Blood pressure and heart disease evaluation
It is important to have your blood pressure checked on a regular basis. High blood pressure overworks the heart and may exist with no symptoms. If undiagnosed, high blood pressure can lead to kidney damage or stroke. Heart disease is the "number one" cause of death in the post-menopausal woman.
- Colon Cancer Assessment
Screening tests can identify growths in their early curable stages.
- Complete physical examinations, including breast and pelvic exams
Regular gynecological checkups should be maintained throughout your menopausal years.
- Nutrition and exercise counseling
Diet is an important part of health maintenance and it may be necessary to modify your eating and exercise habits as your body changes.
Falls Church, VA 22042
phone (703) 532-9555
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