6 Questions to Ask Your Gynecologist About Menopause at Your Next Checkup

Menopause is a significant stage of life that affects everyone differently.

Because symptoms might come and go, it’s not always easy to tell whether you’ve begun. Furthermore, all of the attention appears to be on hot flashes, while you may encounter numerous additional symptoms.

We asked a doctor some of the most typical menopause questions. Here’s what you should know as you prepare for this normal life change, including what to ask your gynecologist about.

1. How do I know for sure I’m experiencing menopause?

Menopause usually begins in your late 40s or early 50s, but it can begin earlier or later. Symptoms might vary depending on several factors, including lifestyle, environment, and heredity.

According to the Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI), black women are more likely to have hot flashes and nocturnal sweats, while white women have vaginal dryness.

Here are a few symptoms of menopause:

Your menstrual cycle becomes erratic. They may also gain or lose weight.
You have hot flashes and nocturnal sweats.
Because of vaginal dryness, sex can be painful.
It’s more difficult to fall and stay asleep.
You’re agitated more than usual.
Your energy reserves are depleted.
Your libido shifts.
You notice changes in your hair and nails, such as thinning or dryness.

All of these can be symptoms of other illnesses. However, because menopause occurs over time, it can be difficult to determine when you are experiencing it.

That is why it is critical to maintain contact with your gynecologist. They can help you identify whether your symptoms are caused by menopause or something else.

2. Will my sex life change as I enter menopause?

Menopause can occur concurrently with decreases in libido. Hormone changes might reduce sex drive, and vaginal dryness can make sex less pleasurable.

But it’s more complicated than that. Many factors can influence your sexual interest, and not everyone suffers a decrease in libido as they approach menopause.

At the same time, inform the doctor of any other sexual health concerns you experience, such as pain during sex or unusual bleeding.

3. Will I still need to get regular pap tests and mammograms?

Yes. Regular pap tests and mammograms become even more necessary as you approach menopause because the risk of certain malignancies increases with age.

Consult a healthcare expert to determine the best screening frequency for you. You may require more or less regular tests depending on your medical history.

Other tests to ask about at your next gynecologist appointment include a:

Thyroid tests.
Bone density scan.
Blood glucose (A1C) test.
Lipid profile.

It’s also a good idea to monitor your blood pressure at home, which you may do using an at-home monitor.

If you’re not sure how to use a personal blood pressure monitor, bring it to your next appointment and ask your healthcare provider to show you how.

4. How could menopause affect my mental health?

Hormone fluctuations during menopause might have an impact on your overall mental health.

Menopause-related hormone changes can cause a variety of sleep problems that might negatively impact your mood. Physical symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes might disrupt sleep and cause irritability.

To put it simply, menopause is a significant life transformation. Physical changes can have an impact on your well-being and self-feelings. Furthermore, in your late 40s and 50s, you may have significant life transitions that alter how you feel about yourself and your place in life.

If menopause is hurting your emotional health, speak with your doctor about treatment options, which may include therapy or medication. Joining a support group may also be beneficial.

5. Is hormone therapy right for me?

Hormone treatment, also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), is taking estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone as a pill, cream, or patch. Which mixture you’ll use is determined by whether or not you’ve had a hysterectomy.

Hormone therapy can help with symptoms of menopause, such as night sweats, vaginal dryness, and even bone loss.

However, it is not for everyone. Long-term hormone therapy may raise your risk of developing certain diseases, such as breast cancer and heart problems.