Best Menopause Doctors in Bangalore

Types/Stages of Menopause

The journey to menopause is classified into three stages:

• Perimenopause: This stage occurs before menopause, and is marked by irregular menstrual cycles and early symptoms like hot flashes. It can last up to a decade.

• Menopause: This is the stage when a woman has not menstruated for 12 consecutive months. This marks the end of fertility.

• Postmenopause: This refers to the years following menopause when hormonal levels stabilise at lower levels than before and symptoms like hot flashes may diminish.

Symptoms of Menopause

The symptoms of menopause can vary widely among women, ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Vaginal dryness

• Mood changes, such as depression and anxiety

• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or waking up frequently during the night

• Decreased libido

• Tiredness, headaches, and joint pain

Tests to Diagnose Menopause

Menopause is typically diagnosed based on a woman’s symptoms and changes in period patterns. However, doctors for postmenopause at Apollo Hospitals conduct various tests to confirm the diagnosis:

• Blood Tests: These include measuring levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and oestrogen (estradiol). Elevated FSH and decreased estradiol levels are typical indicators of menopause.

• Thyroid Function Test: This test helps rule out thyroid disorders that can present similar symptoms to menopause, such as fatigue and weight changes.

• Lipid Profile: This checks cholesterol levels and other fats in the blood, as menopause can affect lipid metabolism and lead to changes in these levels.

• Pelvic Exam: This checks for any changes in the vagina or vulva, such as thinning and dryness caused by low oestrogen levels during menopause.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Menopause at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore

Bangalore’s Apollo Hospitals has the best doctors specialising in menopause treatment, offering comprehensive care, relieving menopausal symptoms, and preventing complications. These include:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): This involves the use of estrogen and sometimes progestin to supplement declining hormone levels during menopause.

• Medications: Some women may benefit from medications like antidepressants (SSRIs or SNRIs), anti-seizure drugs (Gabapentin), or blood pressure medications (Clonidine) to reduce hot flashes and mood swings without using hormones.

• Vaginal Oestrogen: This treatment involves applying oestrogen directly to the vaginal tissues using creams, tablets, or rings. It helps relieve dryness and discomfort during intercourse,

• Lifestyle Modifications: Doctors for postmenopause may recommend adopting a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise to maintain bone health and alleviate mood disturbances, quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption to manage symptoms effectively.