Menopause: The Other Side of Puberty

On Health with Houston Methodist

"The Change." "Ovarian Retirement." "Private Summer." "Reverse Puberty." "Second Spring." There are many ways society describes perimenopause and menopause, both positive and negative. But while we sit down with preteens to give them "The Talk" about how their bodies will change during puberty, there isn't an analog for 35-year-old women facing their next transition. In this episode, we talk with a gynecologist who specializes in menopausal medicine about what that second "Talk" might sound like so women (and the men in their lives) can be more informed about the transition and get proper care and support when they need it.

Expert: Dr. Erin Manning, Gynecologist
Interviewer: Kim Rivera Huston-Weber
Notable topics covered:

• Is menopause really a second puberty?
• The difference between menopause and perimenopause
• The common and not-so-common symptoms of perimenopause
• How treating menopause symptoms has changed over time
• The controversy around hormone therapy — and why its use is resurging
• Non-hormonal medications & lifestyle changes to help manage perimenopausal symptoms
• Are there long-term health issues associated with not treating perimenopausal symptoms?
• Is there a link between menopause and dementia?
• "Doctor, I think I'm in perimenopause" — framing the conversation, advocating for yourself
• Why testing hormone levels isn't an accurate gauge for diagnosing or treating perimenopause
• Are the newer telehealth startups, at-home tests, devices and supplements helpful or hype?
• Why you should have a second "The Talk" with your doctor to not fear menopause

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