Menopause: Hormones, Lifestyle, and Optimizing Aging
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 40 Temple Street, Suite 7A, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America
|August 6, 2019
Summary
Menopause, a natural life stage for women, is often undertreated due to limited provider education. This review updates care strategies, including lifestyle changes and various therapies, for managing menopausal symptoms and health concerns.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Women's Health
- Menopause Management
Background:
- Menopause affects 30%-40% of American women's lives, marked by estrogen cessation.
- Limited formal education on menopausal health exists for North American obstetricians and gynecologists.
- Controversies surrounding hormone therapy have historically impacted provider training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide updated information on the care of menopausal women.
- To focus on symptomatology and health issues linked to declining reproductive hormones.
- To discuss diverse management strategies for menopause.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on menopausal health.
- Discussion of symptomatology and associated health risks.
- Exploration of treatment modalities including lifestyle, nonhormonal, and hormonal options.
Main Results:
- Menopause management requires a comprehensive approach.
- Various therapeutic options exist, ranging from lifestyle adjustments to medications.
- Addressing hormonal decline is key to managing menopausal symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced education and updated clinical guidelines are crucial for optimal menopausal care.
- A multifaceted approach incorporating lifestyle, nonhormonal, and hormonal therapies is recommended.
- Addressing the health needs of menopausal women throughout their lives is essential.
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