Yet theres still a lot thats misunderstood about it.
Hes also the author of the book,The Estrogen Window.
But thats a huge misconception.
Menopause is not about age, he says.
Thats just one myth Dr. Seibel finds himself correcting on a regular basis.
Here, gynecologists give the straight facts about menopause, revealing the most common questions they get asked.
board-certified OB/GYN
What even is menopause?
Menopause is the natural decline of the hormones estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, she says.
Once you become menopausal you will remain in this stage for the rest of your life.
When does menopause start?
Dr. Seibel says many of his patients are often shocked at how early menopause can start.
But symptoms startup to 10 years before that, he says.
(Trans men who do not take testosterone willalso go through menopause.)
Theyre outliers, but still there, she says.
Theyll say, I just had a baby!
board-certified OB/GYN
I cant be menopausal, but symptoms really can start that early, he says.
If your mom and grandmother started going through menopause at 57, for example, you likely will too.
Theres no blood test for diagnosing menopause.
What are the earliest symptoms of menopause?
Dr. Minkin also emphasizes that different people have different experiences of going through menopause.
Its another reason why theres so many misconceptions that surround this life stage.
How can I support my body as I go through menopause?
Dr. Phillips recommendsweight bearing exercise in particular.
It may help you fall asleep, but it wont help you stay asleep, she says.
Should I consider hormone replacement therapy?
But even thoughthe study has been widely discredited, the myth lives on.
Its something worth talking to your doctor about if youre struggling with symptoms.
Whats going on with my vagina?
If youre experiencing some vaginal changes or discomfort, menopause could be the culprit.
Lower estrogen levels can manifest as discomfort during intercourse, vaginal dryness, and infections, Dr. Phillips says.
She often suggests patients take a probiotic with lactobacillus,which is linked to supporting vaginal health.
Also, major PSA: you definitely dont have to live with vaginal dryness.
My interest in sex is completely tanking.
Is there anything I can do?
And thats exactly why its worth talking about more.
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