Menopause is a transformative journey that encompasses several distinct stages. Recently Kaila A. Smith, APRN, FNP-C, part of the Obstetrics/Gynecology and Gynecology team at ARC Bastrop and ARC South Ob/Gyn in Austin offered insightful information, practical tips, and supportive advice on embracing and managing these significant stages of life with Community Impact. "My main focus is to listen carefully to patients' concerns and needs, so I can address their issues fully and efficiently," said Kaila.
Three stages of menopause
- Perimenopause: Perimenopause is the period preceding actual menopause. It is marked by changes in the menstrual cycle, along with other physical and emotional symptoms. This stage can last two to eight years.
- Menopause: Menopause occurs when a woman goes 12 months without any periods, indicating that the ovaries have run out of hormones.
- Postmenopause: Postmenopause is the time after menopause. Once a woman enters postmenopause, she is in this stage for the rest of her life.
Learn more about the three stages of menopause.
In the article, Kaila shares information about the signs and symptoms of menopause, as well as potential complications. She also discusses menopause treatment options available at ARC.
Some common symptoms of menopause include:
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness
- Relaxation of the pelvic muscles
- Irregular hair growth
- Mood swings
- Weight gain
- Sleeping problems
- Sexual dysfunction, such as low libido and low estrogen
Specialized menopause treatment
ARC's Ob/Gyn and Gynecology doctors and APC's can help manage menopause symptoms with these suggested therapies:
- Hormone therapy
- Estrogen therapy
- Non-hormonal treatment
- Estrogen alternatives
- Bioidentical hormones
- Alternative medicine
- Vaginal atrophy
"Educating my patients is important, and giving compassionate care, while providing evidence-based medical care, is always my goal," said Kaila.
More about ARC Ob/Gyn and Gynecology
ARC Ob/Gyn doctors and APCs focus on women's health issues, including pregnancy, fertility, birth control, mammograms, menopause, std testing, ultrasounds, and more. ARC Gynecologists and APCs focus on all body health care needs such as pap tests, menopause, UTIs, birth control, well-checks, and STD testing and treatment, but not pregnancy.
Both ARC Ob/Gyn and ARC Gynecology are here to help you on your menopause journey. Learn more about menopause care at ARC.
Make an appointment today
Let Kaila help you with your women's health issues today. Kaila is accepting new patients of all ages. Call ARC Bastrop at 512-308-4311 or ARC South Ob/Gyn in Austin at 512-383-9752 to make an appointment or do so online through MyChart or ARC Help Me Book today.