Menopause and Hormone Therapy – Why All The Confusion?

Menopause-and-Hormone-Therapy-Kalispell-OBGYN

Gwen Jonas, MD, discusses the perimenopausal transition and menopause, defining menopause as a period of 12 months without menstruation due to decreased ovarian function and hormone production. Symptoms affect 75% of women, including vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats) and mood changes, and can last 7-10 years. Menopause also brings symptomless risks like bone weakening and increased heart disease risk due to poorer cholesterol profiles and insulin resistance. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is presented as an effective treatment for many, addressing misconceptions about its safety based on updated research. HRT benefits include symptom relief and reduced risks of bone fractures, diabetes, and possibly heart disease in women starting it within ten years of menopause before age 60. Various HRT delivery methods and the importance of discussing risks, like blood clots and stroke with a healthcare provider, are highlighted. “Bioidentical” hormones are clarified, and continuous use of HRT beyond 65 is considered if symptoms persist, emphasizing individualized treatment decisions.

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Menopause

Menopause

Written by Marci Mangold, PA-C Did you know that only half of women aged 50 continue to have intercourse, and by age 70, only 27 percent are sexually active? According to a study at Johns Hopkins, this is a natural effect of aging, and it is not surprising that the older we get the less…

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 What is a Pessary?

What Is A Pessary?

Written by Shawn Shanahan,APRN-WHNP, Kalispell OB-GYN I am often asked, “Why didn’t anyone ever tell me about pessaries?” One patient remarked, “They really are a game changer.” A pessary is typically a silicone rubber reusable device that is worn in the vagina. They come in many styles, shapes, and sizes because women come in many…

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Understanding HPV

Kalispell-OB-GYN-Understanding-HPV

Understanding HPV: Learn about the human papillomavirus, its transmission, symptoms, prevention, and available treatment options. Stay informed with Kalispellobgyn.

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The Psychological Benefits of Exercise

KALISPEL-OBGYN-PSYCHOLOGICAL-BENEFITS-OF-EXERCISE

Kaycee McIntosh, PA-C at Kalispell OB/GYN Have you ever felt a sense of total and complete freedom? This winter, I discovered something that created energy, motivation, inspiration, and joy in a place I didn’t expect. I have three boys, so there is little time for self-care and exercise.  We also have a very energetic black…

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 A Discussion about Seasonal Affective Disorder 

Seasonal-Affective-Disorder-Kalispell-OBGYN

Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) resolve with seasonal shifts and make this disorder separate from an underlying diagnosis of depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. These shifting symptoms typically include more feelings of isolation or withdrawal from one’s social support, increased depression, and fatigue or lack of energy. There is a difficult line to draw…

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Not just another New Year’s Resolution: A holistic approach to health and wellness by maintaining a balanced lifestyle for years to come

Woman with arms stretched out in outdoor winter scene

 Written by Marci Mangold, PA-C  As a new year is upon us, many recognize the need to reflect on the past year and plan for a better, less-stressed, more joyful, and healthier year ahead. Often, great intentions lead to New Year’s resolutions in hopes of achieving a specific goal, and we fully intend to keep…

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Keeping Abreast Of Your Health

women wearing pink ribbons for breast cancer awareness

Early detection and prompt treatment can turn a breast cancer sufferer into a breast cancer survivor. Various organizations, such as The American Cancer Society, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the US Preventative Task Force to name a few, have developed guidelines for how best to screen average-risk women for breast cancer based…

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Bust A Myth

Bust A Myth - Kalispell OB/Gyn Wellness News

Options are a wonderful thing, as is, shared and informed decision making. Nowadays, I am honored to clear up some common reproductive related myths, provide some up to date information, and share some commonly unknown options.

If you would like to learn more, have other questions or would like clarification on myths that you have heard related to women’s health, please come see us at Kalispell OB/GYN.

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