Menopause

What is menopause?

Menopause occurs naturally when a woman stops ovulating and longer has her monthly period. Menopausal changes are due to a lack of the reproductive hormones, estrogen and progesterone. In general, women are considered menopausal when they haven’t had a period for at least 1 year. However, symptoms and changes may begin much earlier.

When does menopause begin?

Though it will begin at different times for different women, it commonly starts around the age of 45. In fact, the average age of onset menopause in Canada is 51. Menopausal changes that begin before the age of 39 are considered premature, and Dr. Remi Adelasoye encourages women with these symptoms to get a referral to our office in Campbell River, British Columbia.

What are the symptoms?

Prior to menopause, women may experience a change in their menstrual cycles, with periods becoming heavier, lighter or less frequent than normal. Once a woman reaches menopause, she may experience a number of symptoms, including:

  • hot flashes
  • vaginal dryness
  • hair loss from the scalp
  • increased hair growth on the face
  • difficulty concentrating
  • mood swings
  • trouble sleeping
  • night sweats

In addition, arm and leg strength can suffer/weaken.

What treatments are available for menopausal women?

Women improve some of their symptoms through self-care. Dr. Adelasoye recommends sticking to a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise and getting plenty of sleep. If you experience vaginal dryness, laxity, itchiness or painful intercourse, MonaLisa Touch treatments can help.* MonaLisa Touch uses laser energy to stimulate collagen production, which promotes firmness and lubrication in the vagina.* To learn more about MonaLisa Touch, click here.

Menopause treatments in Campbell River, British Columbia

In some cases, prescription medications can help menopausal women. Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Adelasoye may prescribe low-dose birth control pills. If you are interested in non-surgical treatments for vaginal atrophy and other menopausal symptoms, MonaLisa Touch may be the perfect option for you. For a MonaLisa Touch consultation in Campbell River, British Columbia, please fill out the request form on our site. For all other treatments, Dr. Adelasoye is referral-based. Please obtain a referral into our office from your general practitioner.