The ignored reality of menopause

October is Menopause Awareness Month: Expert Dr. Alyssa Dweck discusses early menopause symptoms, misconceptions, and new treatment options that can help

NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Menopause isn’t just a problem for older women. For many, symptoms like unexpected hot flashes and night sweats start earlier than expected, leaving women confused and in denial. Although there is a growing openness to talk about menopause, there is confusion about what to expect and how to manage symptoms. Dr. Alyssa Dweck, Chief Medical Officer of Bonafide Health, recently partnered with DS Simon Media on a national satellite tour to discuss menopause, common misconceptions, and new treatment options that can help.

Common misconceptions

There are many misconceptions about menopause, starting with the definition itself. Bonafide Health recently conducted its annual Bonafide Health State of Menopause Study and revealed that 7 out of 10 women are still unsure of the exact definition of menopause. Menopause is defined as 12 consecutive months without a period after age 40. The average age of menopause in the US is 51. Perimenopause is the 4-10 years before menopause, when estrogen levels are volatile.

Another misconception revolves around the signs and symptoms during the menopause transition. Menstrual irregularity, irritability, and of course hot flashes and night sweats are very common during the menopausal transition. Vaginal dryness pain may follow during intimacy. A truth? Suffering is out; management of all these symptoms is underway!

Daily impact

Menopause symptoms are a minor inconvenience to some and incredibly disruptive to many. Hot flashes and night sweats, known as vasomotor symptoms, can interfere with day-to-day comfort, work, productivity, and even personal relationships and intimacy. Disruption in sleep quality and duration during menopause leads to mental fog, irritability, and daytime sleepiness over time. A large number of women will experience uncomfortable changes in the intimate skin. A low level of estrogen causes dryness, inelasticity, burning and even pain during intimacy.

New treatment options

Systemic hormone therapy is indicated for hot flashes and night sweats and for the prevention of osteoporosis, and for many, this is a great option. For those who cannot or do not want to take hormone therapy, there are other drug options and well-studied supplements that can be very effective.

The story continues