2024

Menopause marks a significant phase in a woman’s life, accompanied by a variety of symptoms ranging from hot flashes and vaginal dryness to changes in mood and bone density.  For women in Alexandria, VA, understanding the spectrum of menopause symptoms and the available treatments is crucial in making informed decisions about their health.  DiscovHER Health, a women’s wellness clinic specializing in menopause, pelvic pain, Urogyn, and other complex gynecologic conditions, is at the forefront of providing compassionate and comprehensive care for women navigating this transitional period. Understanding Menopause Symptoms Some women have easy menopause with small problems that don’t need a doctor’s help, but others have bigger problems that make daily life hard.  Things like feeling very hot can last a long time for some women, making them feel uncomfortable. Trying to live healthier and using simple treatments from the store can help, but if the problems are really bad, there are special medicines doctors can give, like hormone therapy (HT), to make them feel better. The Role of Hormone Therapy Hormone therapy, involving estrogen and, for women with a uterus, an additional hormone called progestogen, is a highly effective treatment for relieving menopause symptoms.  While estrogen targets symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, progestogen is essential for protecting the uterus. For localized symptoms like vaginal dryness, low doses of estrogen applied directly to the vagina can be beneficial without the need to take progestogen. Making Informed Decisions Every woman goes through menopause differently because of her health background and what she thinks about different treatments. At DiscovHER Health in Alexandria, VA, our doctors help you understand what you’re feeling and your choices for treatment, including the good and bad sides of using hormone therapy (HT). It’s really important to think about how much HT can help with sleep, feeling happy, focusing, and making life better overall, but also to know the risks that might come with it. Personalized Hormone Therapy Options – Navigating Menopause with Expert Care Choosing to undergo hormone therapy is a personal decision that should be made with the guidance of your healthcare provider.  Options vary from pills to patches, gels, creams, and vaginal rings, allowing for a tailored approach to managing symptoms. The goal is to find a treatment that effectively addresses your symptoms with minimal side effects. Understanding Risks and Side Effects While hormone therapy is an effective solution for many, it’s not without its risks and side effects, such as breast tenderness, nausea, and irregular bleeding.  However, these side effects are generally manageable and often resolved by adjusting the treatment. Additionally, the risk of conditions such as stroke, blood clots, and certain cancers is slightly increased with HT, highlighting the importance of personalized treatment plans developed in close consultation with your healthcare provider. Embracing a Supportive Journey At DiscovHER Health in Alexandria, VA, we understand the complexities of menopause and are committed to supporting women through this chapter of their lives.  Whether you’re considering hormone therapy or seeking alternatives, our team is here to provide the information and care you need to navigate menopause with confidence. For more information on menopause and the treatments available, visit DiscovHER Health, your local Alexandria, VA women’s wellness clinic dedicated to empowering women through every stage of life.About Us Jenna Perkins is a board certified Women’s Health and Gender Related Nurse Practitioner with extensive knowledge and experience in Urogynecology, Pelvic Pain, Sexual Health, and complex Gynecology. She is founder of DiscovHER Health, Northern Virginia’s premier destination for women’s healthcare and expertly curated products. About Us Jenna Perkins is a board certified Women’s Health and Gender Related Nurse Practitioner with extensive knowledge and experience in Urogynecology, Pelvic Pain, Sexual Health, and complex Gynecology. She is founder of DiscovHER Health, Northern Virginia’s premier destination for women’s healthcare and expertly curated products. DiscovHER Health Offers cutting edge treatments Pelvic Health + Wellness Skincare | Face + Body Body Toning + Tightening Weight Loss Program Where are we located? We are located in Alexandria, Virginia and serve patients from all over the Mid-Atlantic including Washington DC, Alexandria, Baltimore, and Chevy Chase Related Topics

The journey through menopause comes with a host of changes, and for many women, muscle aches and pains become an unexpected companion. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the nuances of menopause-related muscle discomfort, offering insights, differentiating factors, and empowering solutions tailored to your unique health needs. Understanding Menopause-Related Muscle Aches If you’re grappling with persistent muscle soreness, it might be another symptom of the menopause transition. Distinguishing between typical muscle pain and potential arthritis can be challenging but crucial for seeking the right guidance. During menopause, women are more susceptible to conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions necessitate medical attention and thorough investigations for a proper diagnosis. Root Causes of Muscle Aches Estrogen, a key player in menopausal changes, significantly influences muscles, cartilage, joint health, and bone replacement. Exploring hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can provide relief by addressing these areas effectively. Additionally, external factors like poor posture and stress can contribute to muscle tension and pain, adding complexity to the menopausal journey. Prevalence of Stages of Menopausal Muscle Aches Musculoskeletal pain, especially joint aches, is a common experience during menopause, affecting more than 70% of women in midlife. These aches can manifest at any stage, including the perimenopause phase. Managing Muscle Aches and Pains If you suspect menopause-related muscle discomfort, it’s essential to consult your provider for a thorough evaluation. However, several lifestyle adjustments and treatments can alleviate symptoms: Navigating menopause is a unique journey for every woman, and understanding and addressing muscle aches and pains is a crucial aspect. By seeking professional advice and incorporating lifestyle adjustments, you can empower yourself to embrace this stage of life with confidence and vitality. Remember, your well-being matters, and DiscovHER Health is here to provide shame-free healthcare, ensuring you receive the personalized care you deserve. About Us Jenna Perkins is a board certified Women’s Health and Gender Related Nurse Practitioner with extensive knowledge and experience in Urogynecology, Pelvic Pain, Sexual Health, and complex Gynecology. She is founder of DiscovHER Health, Northern Virginia’s premier destination for women’s healthcare and expertly curated products. DiscovHER Health Offers cutting edge treatments Pelvic Health + Wellness Skincare | Face + Body Body Toning + Tightening Weight Loss Program Where are we located? We are located in Alexandria, Virginia and serve patients from all over the Mid-Atlantic including Washington DC, Alexandria, Baltimore, and Chevy Chase Related Topics