Menopause and Your Mental Health

Menopause is a process that can take years – learn more about menopause and mental health at Advanced Gynecology.

Understanding the connection between mental health and menopause starts with understanding the effects that menopause has on the body and the mind and how those changes can affect things like mood and overall mental health.

By Dr. Brian Raybon, MD, FPMRS — October 7, 2019

How Long Do Menopause Symptoms Last?

On average, the process of menopause affects women for 4-8 years with an onset around age 51. Women in both menopause and perimenopause (pre-menopause) can experience several signs and symptoms.

In the years and months leading up to menopause, women may experience:

● Irregular or missed periods

● Vaginal dryness

● Fatigue

● Hot flashes

● Chills

● Night sweats

● Sleep disturbance

● Changes in libido

● Bladder control problems

● Depression

● Mood changes

● Weight gain and slowed metabolism

● Racing heart

● Headaches

● Joint and muscle aches

● Thinning hair and dry skin

● Loss of breast fullness

Symptoms vary for every woman, with some women experiencing extreme symptoms and others experiencing mild to moderate symptoms.

What is the Connection Between Mental Health and Menopause?

As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause, this signals the biological changes that bring about menopause. Changes in hormone levels affect the regularity of a woman’s cycle and can contribute to some of the other physical symptoms of menopause like low libido and sleep disturbances.

These hormone reductions, when coupled with the physical side effects of menopause, can produce mental side effects like depression and anxiety.

If you’re experiencing depression or anxiety as a result of menopause, there are solutions available. Ask your doctor about your options which could include one or more of these:

● Counseling

● Group therapy

● Depression and anxiety medications

● Hormone therapy

How Advanced Gynecology Can Help

If you believe that you may be going through menopause, you should see a doctor who can order a blood test to confirm the cause of your symptoms. It can also be helpful to keep track of your periods as they become irregular to help give your doctor as much information as possible and to rule out other issues.

If you are suffering from the symptoms of menopause, perimenopause or post menopause, Advanced Gynecology is here for you. Our board-certified team of women’s health experts are ready to help you with diagnostic care and a range of treatment options. We will counsel you about the best options for you and your health. For more information, schedule an appointment today or call us to speak with one of our patient coordinators.