Menopause & Hormonal Health: Personalised Care for Every Stage

Menopause marks the natural end of menstrual cycles, when the ovaries stop producing the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. This transition can bring significant physical and emotional changes that impact quality of life.

Every woman's journey through menopause is unique. With comprehensive assessment and personalized care, most women find effective relief from symptoms and regain their wellbeing.

Menopause typically occurs between ages 45 and 55. Premature menopause can result from genetics, autoimmune conditions, surgery (such as hysterectomy), or cancer treatments.

Stages of Menopause:

• Perimenopause — Hormone levels begin to fluctuate. Periods may become irregular or heavy, and symptoms such as hot flushes or mood changes may appear
• Menopause — Defined as 12 months without a menstrual period. The ovaries stop releasing eggs and oestrogen levels drop sharply
• Postmenopause — Menopausal symptoms often ease, but the long-term effects of lower oestrogen, such as reduced bone density, become more significant

Menopausal changes can affect both body and mind. Common symptoms include:

• Hot flushes and night sweats
• Sleep disturbance and fatigue
• Low mood or mood changes
• Vaginal dryness or discomfort during intercourse
• Weight gain and bloating
• Recurrent urinary infections
• Memory or concentration difficulties
• Headaches, joint stiffness, and muscle aches
• Palpitations or racing heart
• Reduced libido or hair thinning

If you're experiencing menopausal symptoms that affect your daily life, seek medical assessment. Symptoms and their severity vary widely, and personalized care can make a significant difference.

A comprehensive menopause assessment includes:

• Detailed consultation and full medical history
• Physical and pelvic examination
• Blood pressure check
• Blood tests including full blood count, thyroid function, hormone levels, vitamin D, lipid profile, glucose, kidney and liver function
• Cervical screening when due
• Pelvic ultrasound scan when indicated
• Breast imaging (mammogram or ultrasound) as appropriate
• Bone density scan to assess osteoporosis risk

Following assessment, you'll receive a comprehensive report and a personalized management plan with direct access for follow-up or concerns.

Treatment depends on your symptoms, medical history, and personal preferences. A holistic approach often provides the best results.

Lifestyle Management:

• Dietary adjustments — reducing caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
• Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition
• Regular aerobic and low-impact exercise
• Stress management techniques
• Sleep hygiene improvements

Lifestyle changes can significantly reduce symptom severity and improve overall wellbeing.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):

HRT replenishes the oestrogen your body no longer produces, helping to ease symptoms and protect long-term health. It can be given as:

• Tablets taken daily
• Skin patches or gel applied to the skin
• Implants placed under the skin

Benefits of HRT:

• Relief from hot flushes and night sweats
• Improved sleep and mood
• Reduction in vaginal dryness
• Protection against bone loss and osteoporosis
• Improved bladder control and muscle tone
• Stabilization of hormonal mood changes

Your consultant will discuss the safest and most suitable HRT type for you, taking into account your medical history and preferences.

Alternative and Complementary Options:

For women who cannot or prefer not to take HRT, alternatives include:

• Continued lifestyle adjustments (exercise, stress reduction, balanced diet)
• Herbal or natural remedies such as soy isoflavones or black cohosh — though these may interact with certain medications
• Complementary therapies including acupuncture, aromatherapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

Always discuss any supplements or therapies with your consultant to ensure safety.

Dr Mohamed Otify is a Consultant Gynaecologist and Gynaecological Surgeon who provides comprehensive menopause care with a holistic approach to women's health during this pivotal stage.

His approach prioritizes:

• Thorough assessment including comprehensive blood tests and imaging
• Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual circumstances
• Evidence-based hormone replacement therapy when appropriate
• Integration of lifestyle modifications with medical treatment
• Consideration of overall health including bone density and cardiovascular risk
• Clear communication and compassionate support

If you're experiencing menopausal symptoms or wish to understand your options for managing this transition, book a consultation for comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment planning.