Living better with menopause
The Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology Unit of the HUG Gynecology Division offers a consultation for personalized treatment of problems related to menopause.
This specialized consultation supports women in this important stage to help them live better with menopause.
- What are the symptoms of menopause?
- When should you see a doctor?
- What happens at the consultation?
- What are the treatments?
- Menopause and perimenopause: you can do something
Contact the Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology Unit
Telephone: +41 (0)22 372 43 04
Attending Physician : Dr. Isabelle Streuli
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstrual periods due to the drop in production of sexual hormones by the ovaries. This natural phenomena occurs on average at 51 years of age: it can be early (before 40 years) or late (after 55 years).
Perimenopause, the 2- to 4-year period before menopause, is characterized by irregularities of the menstrual cycle and accompanied by variable symptoms, including hot flashes.
Physical, hormonal, and psychological changes occur around menopause:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Genital disorders, decreased sexual desire
- Urinary disorders (trouble urinating, incontinence)
- Drier skin, joint pain, decreased sexual desire (libido)
- Fatigue, lack of energy, trouble concentrating, memory loss, tendency toward depression and irritability
The symptoms of menopause and their intensity vary from woman to woman.
When should you see a doctor?
- When the symptoms affect your quality of life
- If you have a disease that has a particular risk and requires specific monitoring during menopause
Evaluate your symptoms by filling out the menopause questionnaire
What happens at the menopause consultation?
During the consultation, the physician asks you questions to find out:
- your risk factors (cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, etc.)
- your symptoms
- your lifestyle (diet, activity level, etc.)
The physician then performs a clinical exam and several screening tests (Pap smear, mammography [link to page of tests], cholesterol, and blood sugar levels).
Depending on your health status, the effect of the symptoms on your quality of life and your wishes, the physician talks with you about possible treatments.
What are the possible treatments?
Non-hormonal treatments
For hot flashes, herbal remedies, non-hormonal treatments, or acupuncture may be effective. However, some have not been scientifically studied.
Hormonal treatment of menopause
It replaces two hormones (estrogen and progestin), the natural production of which has ceased and is taken in the form of medications. It improves your quality of life in the case of very bothersome symptoms and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
To learn about the benefits and risks of hormonal treatment of menopause
The decision to start a hormonal treatment of menopause must be together with your gynecologist.
Menopause or perimenopause: you can do something
A healthy lifestyle is essential.
Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, doing regular physical activity, and eating a balanced diet can help you live better with menopause.
Contact
The physicians of the division are available for a specialized discussion, which takes into account your situation, your desires, and your questions. They offer you the most suitable solution for your situation.
Telephone: +41 (0)22 372 43 04
E-mail: secretariat.umreg@hcuge.ch
Contact the Specialized Office of the Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology Unit
Dr. Isabelle Streuli
Headof the Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology Unit