menopause Flashcards
when is a diagnosis of menopause made?
- no periods for 12 months- usually happens at 51
- no periods for >2years if <50
what is perimenopause?
- time around menopause when the woman is experiencing vasomotor symptoms and irregular periods- happens from 45 onwards
when does premature menopause occur?
menopause occurring <40 due to ovarian failure
what are the hormone levels like in menopause?
- oestrogen and progesterone are low
- FSH and LH are high
what are perimenopausal symptoms?
Hot flushes Emotional lability or low mood Premenstrual syndrome Irregular periods Joint pains Heavier or lighter periods Vaginal dryness and atrophy Reduced libido
what are risks of menopause?
- CVD and stroke
- osteoporosis
- pelvic organ prolapse
- urinary incontence
at that age can diagnosis of menopause/perimenopasue be made?
> 45
in those < 40 consider premature menopause
how long do women need to keep using contraception for?
- 2 years after LMP in women <50
- 1 year over LMP in women >50
what are UKMEC1 options for contraception after menopause?
Barrier methods Mirena or copper coil Progesterone only pill Progesterone implant Progesterone depot injection (under 45 years) Sterilisation
what are side effects of the progesterone depot injection?
- weight gain
- reduced bone mineral density (osteoporosis)- that’s why its not suitable for women >45
why is COCP UKMEC2?
- The advantages outweigh the risks- in over 40
- the risk is VTE
- can be used to 50 with no other contraindications
how long does it take for menopausal symptoms to subside?
2-5 years without any treatment
which medication can be given to reduce hot flushes?
- clonidine
- a non hormonal medication
- lowers blood pressure and reduced headache migraine and hot flushes
it acts as an agonist of alpha adrenergic receptors
what can be used to treat vaginal dryness and atrophy?
- vaginal oestrogen tablets or creams. can also use vaginal moisturisers like silk and repels
what can be used to treat low libido?
- testosterone gel or cream