Menopause and Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the phase that women experience leading up to the cessation of the menstrual period. Menopause is typically defined as the 12-month period after a woman’s last menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause include:

• Changes in the menstrual cycle

• Hot flashes

• Night sweats

• Difficulty sleeping

• Weight gain

• Decrease or loss of sexual desire

• Decreased bladder control

• Vaginal pain and/or pain with sex

• Fatigue

• Osteopenia/osteoporosis

• Mood swings

• Depression

• Irritability

Andropause

Andropause, sometimes called late-onset hypogonadism, is a progressive condition characterized by a decrease in testosterone levels in men. It is generally age-related, and can have adverse effects on quality of life.

Symptoms of andropause include:

• Decrease in muscle mass and strength

• Weight gain

• Osteopenia/osteoporosis

• Decrease or loss of sexual desire

• Erectile dysfunction

• Frailty/decreased vitality

• Depressed mood

• Cognitive decline