Best Menopause Doctors in Chennai

Menopause is a natural biological event that marks the cessation of menstrual cycles and the end of a woman's reproductive years. The onset typically occurs around the age of 50 but can happen earlier or later. It is characterised by decreased levels of reproductive hormones, primarily oestrogen and progesterone. Women who have their ovaries surgically removed or undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy targeting the ovaries may also experience immediate menopause. However, menopausal symptoms can be painful and uncomfortable for many women, requiring medical attention.

Chennai experiences a significant occurrence of menopause among its female population, aligning with the global trend. However, with some of the best doctors for perimenopause and postmenopause available at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, women can navigate this stage of their lives with confidence and ease. They are adept at handling various stages of menopause and its symptoms, offering the utmost patient care and optimal outcomes.

Types/Stages of Menopause

The transition through menopause is typically segmented into three stages:

• Perimenopause: This is the pre-menopausal phase where menstrual cycles become irregular and symptoms like hot flashes commence. This stage can last from a few months to up to ten years.

• Menopause: This is marked by the absence of menstruation for 12 consecutive months, indicating the end of the reproductive phase.

• Postmenopause: This stage begins after menopause when hormonal levels begin to stabilise and symptoms may gradually decrease.

Symptoms of Menopause

The symptoms associated with menopause can vary from woman to woman, but typically include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Vaginal dryness

• Mood swings, including depression and anxiety

• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia

• Decreased sex drive

• Fatigue and joint pain

• Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen

• Urinary incontinence or frequent urination

Tests to Diagnose Menopause

Doctors specialising in Menopause treatment at the Apollo Hospitals in Chennai perform a series of tests to diagnose menopause accurately:

• Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test: Elevated FSH levels indicate the onset of menopause.

• Estradiol Test: This test measures the level of estradiol, a type of estrogen that decreases significantly during menopause.

• Thyroid Function Test: This evaluates thyroid hormone levels to exclude thyroid disorders that can mimic the symptoms of menopause.

• Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear: Routine check-ups are performed to assess the health of the reproductive organs and screen for conditions like cervical cancer or infections.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Menopause at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

At Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, the focus is on providing symptomatic relief and ensuring a woman's overall well-being during this critical transition. Our best doctors for menopause treatment offer a range of effective treatment options, including:

• Hormone Therapy (HT): This involves prescribing small doses of oestrogen combined with progesterone (for women with a uterus) or oestrogen alone (for those without a uterus) to alleviate menopausal symptoms.

• Topical Oestrogen: For those experiencing vaginal dryness, topical forms of oestrogen such as creams, tablets, or vaginal rings can provide relief.

• Medications: Anti-depressants, blood pressure medications, or anti-seizure drugs are prescribed to reduce hot flashes and improve sleep quality.

• Lifestyle Changes: Doctors for midlife transition may suggest regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and effective stress management techniques to help manage symptoms and boost overall health.