Feeling the heat? Tips for coping with hot flashes and menopause symptoms

Hot flashes and menopause symptoms begin during perimenopause. Perimenopause occurs before menopause and it is when your ovaries start to produce fewer hormones, primarily estrogen. When you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months, it usually indicates that you are entering menopause.

These changes may begin in your 30s, but most women start to notice symptoms in their 40s and early 50s. The experienced physicians at Athens ObGyn are always here to provide advice and care as you navigate the menopause years.

Dealing with hot flashes and menopause symptoms

Get a handle on hot flashes and menopause symptoms with these lifestyle tips from our doctors.

• To avoid hot flashes, avoid triggers such as spicy foods, alcohol, caffeinated drinks and hot environments. Stress and anger are also triggers. Try relaxation techniques, dressing in layers and keeping a small fan nearby to cool you down.
• Vaginal dryness makes intercourse uncomfortable and can cause burning, itching and pain. Combat this problem with over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and use lubricants during intercourse. Also ask the physicians at Athens ObGyn about prescription medication.
• You may also have trouble sleeping. Be vigilant about good sleep habits, including sleeping in a dark, cool room and avoiding screen time for at least one hour before bed. Exercise helps you sleep as long as you don’t get active too late in the evening.
• Feeling depressed, anxious or experiencing mood changes? Try meditation, yoga or join a support group. If you have a history of depression or anxiety, or your mood issues are affecting your daily life, please consult our physicians for professional advice.

In addition to hot flashes and menopause symptoms, you will begin to experience menstrual changes. Irregular periods are a normal part of perimenopause, but the physicians at Athens ObGyn need to know when your cycle begins to change.

Talk to our physicians about your problems

At Athens ObGyn, our physicians work hard to make you feel comfortable and urge you to ask questions. Consult our doctors for suggestions and medication advice for symptoms that are more severe or aren’t responding to lifestyle changes. Contact us for help with hot flashes and menopause symptoms.