Menopause & Beyond
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While many women sail through menopause without any problems, a significant number find this time difficult and distressing. For a start, sometimes periods become more irregular, prolonged or heavier as women approach menopause.  Instead of finding their periods `go quietly’, women may be baffled to find themselves seeing their doctor to investigate new pain or heavier flow. Occasionally this can be a sign of a problem, but often it reflects a change in the hormonal flux as oestrogen levels begin to fall. Your GP will usually need to order a pelvic ultrasound, as this is the best way to look for abnormalities that might cause a change in periods. These include fibroids, polyps or a thickened womb lining. If your GP is concerned by the nature of the change in bleeding pattern, or by the findings on ultrasound, he or she may refer you to Dr Aubrey to investigate the problem more closely.

Other women find that menopause has come and gone, but they have experienced an episode or more of new vaginal bleeding.  If more than 12 months have passed since their last period, this is called postmenopausal bleeding. This requires investigation because it can occasionally be an early sign of gynaecological cancer. Dr Aubrey deals with this problem every day, and can guide you through what to expect while the problem is investigated and treated.

Another issue that often affects women as they go through menopause is the onset of symptoms such as hot flushes, skin or hair changes, moodiness, forgetfulness, bladder problems and/or sexual difficulties. Women may experience all or none of these problems, and how these are treated depends on many factors. Often women expect to be offered hormonal therapy, and while this is often safe and effective, it may not be the primary recommended treatment at all. Gynaecologists have up to date knowledge regarding evidence-based complementary therapies, lifestyle change and non-hormonal treatment options. If hormonal therapy is recommended, women receive advice about using the lowest effective dose for the shortest period of time, in keeping with international guidelines. Most women can be reassured that hormonal therapy to treat menopausal symptoms is safe, appropriate and not required permanently.

Whatever your concerns may be, Dr Aubrey is approachable, collaborative, and keen to explore how your life can continue to be happy and healthy during and after menopause.