Q 1:  Doctor, I am 45 years old and am still getting periods though not regularly. I have got lot of symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Is everything OK?

    Even though the technical definition of menopause is not having periods for at least 1 year, it is not uncommon for women to have their periods on an erratic basis before the actual menopause occurs. The hot flashes and night sweats indicate that your estrogen levels are not enough and are probably on a decline. These symptoms call on you to seek medical advice for hormone replacement therapy.

Q 2:  How long will my symptoms last?

    Thats a tough question…..there is really no definite answer. Some women get symptoms for only a short time, others get intense symptoms which last for few months. Most women get symptoms for a few years. However the key to take care of your symptoms both short-term and long-term is Hormone Replacement Therapy

Q 3:  I am finding sex very uncomfortable now. Can you suggest some remedy?

    This is just another symptom, which occurs commonly, because of low estrogen. There is shrinking of the vaginal tissues which results is uncomfortable sex. There are varieties of measures that can help overcome this. Hormone replacement therapy should overcome this condition. In addition other measures such as lubricants, adequate hydration by drinking water can also help.

Q 4:  How long shall I get periods with HRT?

    That depends upon the hormone replacement regimen that you have been put on. If you prefer to have periods there is a cyclical regimen available i.e. you take estrogen everyday and progesterone for a few days each month and then, yes, -you probably will keep getting a monthly period. However if you are on the other regimen i.e. taking estrogen and progesterone daily, then you usually will stop getting a period.

Q 5:  I feel sudden surge of heat wave passing through my body. This episode lasts for a few minutes. Is it that I am soon going to be menopausal?

    The ovaries produce less and less estrogen, which causes a cascade of bodily change that commonly result in the symptoms such as hot flashes (the symptom you have described above) night sweats and vaginal dryness. These symptoms can be disturbing. For instance, night sweats can disrupt sleep so you feel tired and more sensitive to the stress during the day. Estrogen replacement therapy such as Premarin and hormone replacement therapy such as Premelle can greatly reduce or even eliminate these symptoms. I The ovaries produce less and less estrogen, which causes a cascade of bodily change that commonly result in the symptoms such as hot flashes (the symptom you have described above) night sweats and vaginal dryness. These symptoms can be disturbing. For instance, night sweats can disrupt sleep so you feel tired and more sensitive to the stress during the day. Estrogen replacement therapy such as Premarin and hormone replacement therapy such as Premelle can greatly reduce or even eliminate these symptoms.

Q 6:  I am 50 years years old I am getting repeated attacks of urinary tract infection. Is it because I indulge in sex even at this age?

    Indulgence in sexual activities does not lead to urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections can occur because of improper hygiene during sex. There is nothing wrong to indulge in sex even at 50 yr. However due to declining estrogen levels the vaginal tissue is dry & thin. And therefore more prone for infection. HRT may help offer you benefits.

Q 7:  Can you give me some tips to manage hot flashes, vaginal dryness etc.

    Cool Tips for Hot Flashes
* Reduce or avoid alcoholic beverage consumption or coffee.
* Have plenty of water, when you feel a hot flash is coming on.
* Avoid hot drinks.
* Keep cool. Open a window. Use air conditioning and/or fans. Carry a small hand fan with you
*Try to relax when you get a hot flash. Don't Get stressed
* Practice regularly relaxation techniques such as meditation, biofeed or yoga.
*Wear lightweight clothes made of cotton
* If you suffer from night sweats, (hot flashes that occur as you sleep). - Wear loose fitting cotton nightwear. Have changes of nightwear ready. - Sleep with only a top sheet. Avoid blankets. - Keep the room cool.

Soothing tips to avoid vaginal dryness.
* Use a water-soluble lubricant to facilitate penetration during intercourse. Avoid oils or petroleum-based products. They encourage infection.
* Don't use deodorant soaps or scented products in the vaginal area.
* Remain sexually active. Having sex often lessen the chance of having the vagina constrict & helps keep natural lubrication. Stay Happy!
* Ask your doctor about intravaginal estrogen cream.

Q 8:  How to deal with depression, mood swings, irritability, etc. Some tips please.?

    To deal with emotional symptoms:
* Exercise regularly. This will help maintain your body's hormonal balance.
* Talk to other women who have gone through or are going through menopause. You can help each other cope with emotional symptoms.
* Avoid stressful situations as much as possible. Use relaxation techniques. Examples include: meditation, yoga, listening to soft music and messages.
* Eat healthy diet. Check with your doctor about taking vitamin/mineral supplements.
* Self-care is essential but not enough. Please consult your doctor for further details.