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Menopause and Migraines

What are migraines?

Migraines are severe and recurrent headaches which can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. They are often accompanied by other symptoms such as visual disturbances, nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, irritability, fatigue and malaise.  

What how can menopause affect migraines?

From the early 40s, the menstrual cycle can become more erratic, with fluctuations in oestrogen levels, leading to more frequent migraines. As these fluctuations lessen in the run up to the menopause and beyond, some women may find that their migraine improves after the menopause. 

What are the options for migraine treatment during menopause?

Here are 7 possible treatments for migraine sufferers during the menopause.

Menopause Symptoms

What menopause symptoms might I have?

No two women are the same when it comes to menopause symptoms. However, we do know that we have oestrogen receptors in every cell of our body so it is possible that the fluctuating levels of oestrogen can provoke a wide variety of menopause symptoms.

Not all women will experience all of these menopause symptoms, but common ones include:

Genitourinary Syndrome of the Menopause (GSM)

What is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), formerly known as Vulvovaginal Atrophy (VVA) or atrophic vaginitis, is a condition that affects many perimenopausal and post-menopausal women. It is a group of symptoms and physical changes in the genital and urinary tract areas, primarily caused by the hormonal changes associated with menopause, particularly the decline in oestrogen levels.  

What are The Symptoms of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)

GSM symptoms encompasses a range of symptoms and can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Common genitourinary syndrome of menopause symptoms and manifestations of GSM include: 

It’s essential for women experiencing GSM to consult with a doctor to discuss their symptoms and explore appropriate treatment options. With proper management, many women can find relief from the discomfort and distress associated with this condition.  If you would like to book in with a menopause specialist, click here.

Menopause: When to Stop Contraception

The decision of when to stop contraception during menopause can vary depending on your individual circumstances and preferences. Menopause is defined as the cessation of menstruation for 12 consecutive months and is technically one day in time. It is important to understand that pregnancy can still occur during the perimenopausal transition, as ovulation can be irregular.

If you are using the combined contraceptive pill and you have withdrawal bleeds these are occurring because of these hormones rather than your own cycle. Because these methods give an ‘artificial bleed’, you are not able to tell where you are in the menopause transition or if your periods have naturally stopped.

Some women using the progesterone only pill, progesterone implant or hormone-containing coil may not have regular bleeds which can make it difficult to know when the menopause happens.

If this is the case, your doctor can carry out a blood test to check your follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level. This blood test can be useful in helping you work out when to stop using contraception. Speak to a doctor to arrange this, and for advice on how to interpret the results.  If you would like to discuss menopause or when to stop contraception with one of our menopause specialists, click here,

Can HRT Be Used For Contraception?

A common question is whether hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be used as a contraceptive. HRT is used as a treatment for the symptoms of the perimenopause and post menopause. It contains very low doses of hormones and as a result it cannot be used as a contraceptive. It is worth remembering that you can still get pregnant in the perimenopause, so it is important to discuss a method of contraception with your doctor.

If you are using HRT and depending on the type you are using, the progesterone only pill or the Mirena coil can be used safely.

Menopause Diagnosis: Is There a Menopause Blood Test

Is there a test for the menopause?

Most women will not require a blood test to diagnose the perimenopause or menopause. For most, the menopause diagnosis will be based on your symptoms, your age and your period history.

Blood tests can be helpful in younger women where the perimenopause is questioned, and of course some blood tests can be helpful to look at in order to gauge a picture of your overall health. These tests can be discussed with your doctor.  

Menopause and Weight Gain

Does menopause cause weight gain?

Many women find it harder to control their weight as they enter the peri/menopause. Weight gain is complicated and due to a variety of factors:  

How to manage weight changes in the peri/menopause?

At London Gynaecology, we have specialist menopause clinicians and nutritional therapists to support you through the menopause, if you would like to book a personalised menopause consultation, click here.

Menopause and Anxiety

Does menopause cause anxiety?

Anxiety is a common perimenopause symptom and can often be one of the first symptoms that you might notice. For some women, this is the first time they have experienced anxiety whilst for others, they may have experienced it before, and their anxiety has worsened. Anxiety can manifest as a feeling of fear, panic, feeling overwhelmed or a general feeling of worry.  

Hormone fluctuations and our stress responses can make the anxiety worse, so it is important to take the time to look after yourself and manage your stress levels wherever possible. Yoga, mindfulness and relaxation therapies can help and there are various apps which can support you through some meditation practices.  

Hormone replacement therapy may be used if it is felt that hormone fluctuations are contributing to your anxiety. It is also worth noting that some anti-anxiety medications can be extremely helpful too.  

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be beneficial in the peri/menopause and is based around talking therapy. There is lots of evidence that it can be helpful in managing hot flushes too.  

A holistic approach is key.  

Our New Harley Street Clinic Is Open

Step into a world of exceptional healthcare at our brand-new location in the heart of London ‘s medical district at 145 Harley Street, W1G 6BJ.  We are delighted to welcome all patients seeking excellent medical care in a luxurious setting.

Our state-of-the-art clinic, where advanced diagnostics and comprehensive services meet elegance, is equipped with cutting-edge medical diagnostic technology has been carefully designed to provide patients with the utmost comfort and convenience in a luxurious and relaxed setting.

Your journey to exceptional women’s health begins at 145 Harley Street.

 

 

What to Expect in a Private GP Appointment?

If you have never visited a private GP before, you may be unsure of what to expect.  Below outlines what a private GP consultation typically comprises of:

  1. Medical history: We will begin by taking a detailed medical history, which includes information about any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, medications, and previous surgeries.

  2. Physical examination: We will carry out a thorough physical examination, which may include checking your observations, such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse. We may also examine your ears, nose, and throat, listen to your heart and lungs, and check your reflexes.

  3. Health concerns: You will have the opportunity to discuss any current health concerns or symptoms that you are experiencing. We will ask you questions to help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

  4. Diagnosis and treatment plan: Based on your medical history, physical examination, and symptoms, we will diagnose your condition and develop a customised treatment plan. This may include prescribing medication, recommending lifestyle changes, or referring you to a specialist for further investigation or treatment.

  5. Follow-up care: We may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan, if necessary.

  6. Additional services: We offer additional services, such as health screenings, diagnostic tests, and vaccinations, which can be arranged during your consultation or at a later date.