Perimenopause and Menopause

How a GP Can Help During Perimenopause and Menopause

1. Individualized Assessment
   We take the time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle, and health history to provide a tailored approach.
2. Diagnosis and Monitoring
   • Assessing hormone levels when necessary.
   • Monitoring health risks, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular health, which increase after menopause.

After menopause, women experience changes in their hormone levels, particularly a decline in estrogen, which increases the risk of certain health conditions. Key risks include:

Cardiovascular Disease: The drop in estrogen reduces the protective effects it has on heart health, making postmenopausal women more susceptible to heart disease. This risk can be compounded by factors such as smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes​

1. Osteoporosis: Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. After menopause, the rate of bone loss accelerates, increasing the likelihood of osteoporosis and fractures. Consuming a calcium-rich diet and engaging in weight-bearing exercises can help mitigate this risk​
2. Other Risks: Menopause can also lead to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, urinary incontinence, and certain types of cancer (such as colon cancer). Hormone therapy may be an option for reducing some of these risks, though it must be tailored to individual needs​

To manage these risks effectively, regular health checks are essential. These might include cardiovascular screenings, bone density tests, and lifestyle adjustments like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management​

1. Symptom Management
   • Lifestyle advice: Diet, exercise, and sleep strategies to improve overall well-being.
   • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): If suitable, HRT can help manage symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings, and bone health.
   • Non-hormonal treatments: Options for those unable or unwilling to use HRT, including natural remedies and prescription medications.
2. Support for Emotional Well-being
   Menopause is not just a physical transition—it can impact mental health too. We offer guidance and referrals to counselors or therapists if needed.
3. Preventive Care
   • Regular screenings for bone density, breast health, and cardiovascular risks.
   • Education on long-term health changes post-menopause.