Case Study: Early Menopause
Names have been changed for patient privacy.
Melissa’s Background
Melissa is a 52-year-old, married female with two grown children who enjoys a successful paralegal career working in a downtown Atlanta law firm. While in their early forties, Melissa and her husband made the decision to stop using contraceptives. Melissa retired her birth control pills and her husband had a vasectomy. Problem Melissa usually had a regular menstrual cycle, but it had begun occurring more often or sometimes even missed a cycle altogether. Melissa is aware that she has a good marriage, but she is worried about her diminishing libido. For the last six months, she has frequently awakened with night sweats, and for the first time has gained weight around her middle. She would experience inexplicable bouts of anger, and memory problems were making her complicated job increasingly difficult. Exercise got pushed back, as Melissa was sleeping poorly and was too tired to go to the gym. She had just enough energy to come home and pour a glass of wine. When Melissa discussed these concerns at her annual gynecology appointment, her doctor reassured her that she was just experiencing “normal aging” issues and would need to accept it as a part of getting older. Treatment Plan Georgia Hormones evaluated Melissa’s hormones as well as her thyroid, adrenal, vitamin and sugar metabolism. Her thyroid and adrenal tests were normal, and even though she was deeply into menopause, Melissa was still producing some estrogen. Her vitamin count was low, and blood sugar levels pointed to rising numbers. Melissa started on bioidentical progesterone to be taken nightly (which can also improve sleeping habits). In addition, we prescribed a vitamin and supplement regimen including an herbal product to reduce night sweats. All items were purchased at the local health food store. Results Melissa is sleeping much better. Her energy and libido have returned, and she has resumed gym workouts and reduced her wine consumption. At her annual checkup, Melissa gushed, “I am so happy to have my life back.” |