Menopause

Expert Menopause Care: Compassionate support and personalized solutions for a smoother transition.

Menopause services offered in Century City, Los Angeles, CA

Most women experience menopause in midlife, but many of the symptoms you associate with menopause may appear well before you reach that stage of your life. Joseph Roofeh, MD, is an experienced and patient-centered OB/GYN who takes an integrative approach to menopause at his office in the Century City neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. Dr. Roofeh works closely with you, designing a treatment plan that eases your symptoms and fits your goals. Call the office or book a menopause consultation online today.

What is menopause?

Menopause is the time in your life when you no longer menstruate because your ovaries stop producing estrogen — the hormone that controls your menstrual cycle. You officially reach “the change of life” when you go one full year without your period.

In the United States, 51 is the average age most women reach menopause.

Though menopause may begin earlier or later, the change of life doesn’t happen all at once. Estrogen production starts to fluctuate in your 30s and 40s, causing many of the symptoms women associate with menopause. 

This transitional stage is called perimenopause (when your body begins to change).

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Menopause symptoms vary in type and severity. Some women go through perimenopause and menopause without any problems, while other women have severe symptoms that disrupt their daily routine.

Common symptoms of menopause include:

  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Mood changes
  • Low level depression
  • Fatigue
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Low libido
  • Weight gain
  • Thinning hair
  • Dry skin

Menopause also affects bone health. Declining estrogen levels increase the rate of bone loss, putting you at risk of developing osteoporosis — a bone disease that makes you susceptible to fractures.

When should I see a doctor about menopause?

You should see a doctor every year for your annual women’s wellness exam. During these yearly visits, Dr. Roofeh talks to you about menopause and what to expect when estrogen levels start to change.

He recommends scheduling a menopause consulation when your symptoms affect your life. Dr. Roofeh performs a thorough examination, reviewing your symptoms, menstrual cycle history, gynecological history, and family history.

As part of your examination, he conducts a physical and pelvic exam and runs lab work to check your hormone levels. 

What are the treatment options for menopause?

Treatment for menopause centers around managing symptoms and improving your quality of life.

Dr. Roofeh spends time talking with you about all your menopause treatment options so you can decide what methods work best for you. Treatments might include:

  • Low-dose hormonal birth control
  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
  • Antidepressants for mood changes
  • Gabapentin for hot flashes
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) vaginal lubricants for vaginal dryness

Dr. Roofeh takes an integrative approach to care and may also suggest complementary therapies for your menopause, such as acupuncture and yoga. 

He also discusses your lifestyle or self-care habits and recommends changes to improve overall health. These may include nutrition and exercise counseling.

To receive a compassionate care plan your menopause symptoms, call the office of Joseph Roofeh, MD, or book online today.