The average age at onset of menopause is 51.
Menopause is something all women can expect to experience. Finding the right doctor will make this transition and its symptoms easier to handle.
The Facts
Menopause is usually confirmed after 12 consecutive missed periods, and means your childbearing years have ended. According to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), menopause occurs between the ages of 40 and 58---and the average age at onset is 51.
Standard Care
General practitioners and gynecologists can treat the physical symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and changing estrogen levels. Endocrinologists, who are hormone specialists, and geriatric medicine specialists also treat menopause symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy is often their first approach, but it depends on your medical history.
Alternatives
Holistic practitioners and naturopathic physicians use alternative treatments for menopause symptoms, such as supplements, aromatherapy, homeopathic remedies, massage or acupuncture. They focus on the whole body, aiming to reduce or eliminate the use of prescription hormone therapies.
Solution
NAMS provides a referral service on its website, matching patients with local health-care providers specializing in menopause.
Considerations
The National Women's Health Information Center suggests interviewing several doctors to find the best fit. Find out how many menopausal women she has treated; when he schedules screenings for osteoporosis and heart disease; and if she will work with you if you explore alternative therapies.
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