Menopause: Patient Education from University of Colorado Hospital
Living with Menopause
Menopause is a natural part of life for women. Signs that menopause is beginning include:
- Hot Flashes – sudden onset of feeling extremely hot and uncomfortable
- Irregular periods
- Breast tenderness
- Intense Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Extreme tiredness
- Decreased sex drive
If symptoms are severe you should talk with your doctor about menopause treatment options.
Women in menopause also have a high risk of developing osteoporosis (low bone mass) and may need to take a calcium supplement and follow recommended diet and exercise plan to reduce this risk. They also have an increased risk of developing colon cancer and breast cancer, so should have a yearly colonoscopy (checks for colon cancer) and mammogram (checks for breast cancer).
Getting a Second Opinion about Menopause
If you are experiencing severe menopause-related symptoms it is important you feel comfortable with your doctor and treatment plan. University of Colorado Hospital is happy to offer a second opinion and to work with you if you choose to come to our hospital for treatment.