Welcome to One Medical Clinics, where we offer a specialised Women’s Health and Menopause clinic in St Albans, led by Dr Ruth Rayne. In this guide, we will explore the various phases of menopause, symptoms, and management options for women in St Albans and Hertfordshire.
Premature Menopause
Premature menopause occurs when a woman’s menstrual cycle stops before the age of 40, leading to a range of symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, and reduced sex drive. Women with a family history of early menopause are at a higher risk. The causes can be a result of surgery to remove the ovaries, autoimmune disease, or cancer treatment such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your doctor for proper evaluation. Early menopause can be managed with hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) or a combined contraceptive pill. However, for those who have had certain types of cancer, hormonal treatment may not be recommended. Your GP can advise you on this after a detailed discussion.
Peri-Menopause
Perimenopause is the period when the body transitions into menopause, marking the end of reproductive years. It does not have a fixed age when it begins as everyone is different, so it’s crucial to make a note of any changes and discuss them with your doctor. Some people can experience menopause symptoms as early as their thirties, while most will be in their 40s. The transition to menopause brings various changes in the body, including irregular periods, mood changes, hot flushes, night sweats, and sleep disturbance. HRT can be prescribed even if you still have periods. However, areas to discuss will include contraceptive needs, family history, past medical history, smoking and alcohol habits.
If HRT is contraindicated, then other options to consider include keeping active with regular exercise, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, practising mindfulness and stress reduction, and maintaining a healthy diet. Some may even benefit from supplements, antidepressants, or gabapentin, all of which are licensed for use in menopause.
Menopause and Post Menopause
Post-menopause is when you have not had a period in 12 months or more, signalling the end of ovulation. Menopause symptoms can be both physical and mental. They may include low mood, anxiety, self-esteem problems, memory and concentration issues, hot and cold flushes, trouble sleeping, headaches or migraines, muscle and joint aches, dry and itchy or oily skin, body shape and weight changes, vaginal dryness, pain, itching, or discomfort during sex, recurrent UTIs, and possible stress incontinence. Every individual is unique, and symptoms may differ. Symptoms can last anywhere from a number of months to up to 14 years, depending on lifestyle factors. HRT is the primary management option, and oestrogen is usually prescribed transdermally, through patches, gel or spray.
If progesterone is needed, it can be prescribed as a patch, tablet, or Mirena coil. Other management options include reducing alcohol intake, stopping smoking, getting enough rest and keeping a routine, eating a healthy diet, including calcium-rich foods, weight-bearing exercise, relaxation, speaking to others including support groups, and speaking to a doctor about supplements and medicines. Managing hot flushes involves wearing light cotton clothing, keeping your bedroom cool at night, drinking plenty of water, managing stress, avoiding triggers such as spicy food and smoking, managing your weight, and cognitive-behavioural therapy.
At One Medical Clinics, our Dr Ruth is trained to provide support to women during this period of their lives. Menopause can be a challenging time, and our team is here to guide and support. For more information please visit our Women’s Health and Menopause Clinic page.