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When should a young woman start having her first gynecological check-ups?
When should a young woman start having her first gynecological check-ups?
For an adolescent, gynecological examinations can be recommended starting from 13–15 years of age or when sexual activity begins, serving preventive, educational, diagnostic, and therapeutic purposes.
The first gynecological consultation—aimed at assessing the health of both external (vagina and vulva) and internal genital organs (uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes)—may sometimes consist solely of an interview with the patient. This consultation serves to collect personal and family medical history, assess adolescent sexual and reproductive health, and evaluate any menstrual irregularities, cycle-related disorders such as dysmenorrhea and acne, as well as endocrine conditions.
For an adolescent, gynecological examinations can be recommended starting from 13–15 years of age or when sexual activity begins, serving preventive, educational, diagnostic, and therapeutic purposes.
The first gynecological consultation—aimed at assessing the health of both external (vagina and vulva) and internal genital organs (uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes)—may sometimes consist solely of an interview with the patient. This consultation serves to collect personal and family medical history, assess adolescent sexual and reproductive health, and evaluate any menstrual irregularities, cycle-related disorders such as dysmenorrhea and acne, as well as endocrine conditions.
What gynecological check-ups are recommended for an adolescent?
Gynecological examination in adolescents
Where possible, it is performed by a physician to evaluate the development and maturation of the internal and external genitalia, as well as to check for the presence of dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, structural malformations, vulvovaginitis, vulvar dermatological conditions, and hirsutism. During the gynecological visit, it is also possible to identify potential eating disorders and provide counseling on fertility awareness and family planning methods.
Pelvic ultrasound examination
Breast examination
Adolescents can begin practicing breast self-examinations. However, a clinical breast exam performed by a physician may be required to detect any abnormalities; at this age, a physical examination combined with a breast ultrasound can be performed.
Blood tests
Blood testing may be performed to assess hormone levels, evaluate thyroid function, or screen for sexually transmitted infections.
Where possible, it is performed by a physician to evaluate the development and maturation of the internal and external genitalia, as well as to check for the presence of dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, structural malformations, vulvovaginitis, vulvar dermatological conditions, and hirsutism. During the gynecological visit, it is also possible to identify potential eating disorders and provide counseling on fertility awareness and family planning methods.
Pelvic ultrasound examination
Breast examination
Adolescents can begin practicing breast self-examinations. However, a clinical breast exam performed by a physician may be required to detect any abnormalities; at this age, a physical examination combined with a breast ultrasound can be performed.
Blood tests
Blood testing may be performed to assess hormone levels, evaluate thyroid function, or screen for sexually transmitted infections.
What other check-ups or tests may be beneficial for an adolescent?
Dermatological consultation
Enables the early identification and management of individual risk factors and behaviors predisposed to disease development, as well as the treatment of various dermatological conditions presenting during adolescence, such as acne and hirsutism.
Endocrinological consultation
Recommended if the patient presents symptoms or medical conditions potentially related to endocrine function, such as:
- Delayed puberty compared to peers
- Precocious or delayed puberty
- Symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, including sudden weight loss or gain, fatigue, palpitations, sleep disturbances, depression, or other thyroid-related symptoms
- Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
- Growth disorders, such as short stature or excessive growth
- Hormonal disorders such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Nutritional consultation
A nutritional consultation for an adolescent is indicated in the presence of disorders or concerns regarding diet, general nutritional and psychological well-being, or when the patient expresses weight-related concerns. A dietary consultation provides an optimal opportunity to guide adolescents toward healthy nutritional habits and physical activity. During the consultation, dietary patterns, eating behaviors, food allergies or intolerances, and overall lifestyle are assessed. In select cases, referral to a psychologist may be advised to address specific factors impacting the adolescent's health and well-being.
Enables the early identification and management of individual risk factors and behaviors predisposed to disease development, as well as the treatment of various dermatological conditions presenting during adolescence, such as acne and hirsutism.
Endocrinological consultation
Recommended if the patient presents symptoms or medical conditions potentially related to endocrine function, such as:
- Delayed puberty compared to peers
- Precocious or delayed puberty
- Symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, including sudden weight loss or gain, fatigue, palpitations, sleep disturbances, depression, or other thyroid-related symptoms
- Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
- Growth disorders, such as short stature or excessive growth
- Hormonal disorders such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Nutritional consultation
A nutritional consultation for an adolescent is indicated in the presence of disorders or concerns regarding diet, general nutritional and psychological well-being, or when the patient expresses weight-related concerns. A dietary consultation provides an optimal opportunity to guide adolescents toward healthy nutritional habits and physical activity. During the consultation, dietary patterns, eating behaviors, food allergies or intolerances, and overall lifestyle are assessed. In select cases, referral to a psychologist may be advised to address specific factors impacting the adolescent's health and well-being.
Prevention: what preventive and gynecological screenings are indicated for an adolescent?
- Routine gynecological examination, which may include a Pap smear
- HPV test (screening for Human Papillomavirus), a causative agent of cervical cancer
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, strongly recommended for adolescents
- Contraceptive counseling: if the adolescent is sexually active, the physician should discuss contraceptive options to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections
- Sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening: indicated for detecting pathogens such as Chlamydia,
gonorrhea, genital herpes, and HIV
- Nutritional and lifestyle counseling: the clinician can provide guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercise, and minimizing alcohol and tobacco consumption.
- HPV test (screening for Human Papillomavirus), a causative agent of cervical cancer
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, strongly recommended for adolescents
- Contraceptive counseling: if the adolescent is sexually active, the physician should discuss contraceptive options to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections
- Sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening: indicated for detecting pathogens such as Chlamydia,
gonorrhea, genital herpes, and HIV
- Nutritional and lifestyle counseling: the clinician can provide guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercise, and minimizing alcohol and tobacco consumption.
Reproductive Age
When should a woman begin routine gynecological visits?
For preventive purposes, every woman should undergo regular screening examinations at intervals that vary according to age, stage of life, and family history of specific pathologies.
On average, women of reproductive age are advised to undergo a gynecological check-up at least once a year, which may include routine diagnostic tests such as cervical cancer screening and transvaginal ultrasound.
During the examination, the gynecologist evaluates the patient's reproductive health and checks for potential pathologies, such as infections, menstrual irregularities, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, tumors, and other conditions.
The gynecologist can also provide clinical guidance on contraception and sexually transmitted infections.
In the event of pregnancy, the patient transitions to a dedicated, closer monitoring protocol; please refer to the section dedicated to "Pregnancy."
On average, women of reproductive age are advised to undergo a gynecological check-up at least once a year, which may include routine diagnostic tests such as cervical cancer screening and transvaginal ultrasound.
During the examination, the gynecologist evaluates the patient's reproductive health and checks for potential pathologies, such as infections, menstrual irregularities, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, tumors, and other conditions.
The gynecologist can also provide clinical guidance on contraception and sexually transmitted infections.
In the event of pregnancy, the patient transitions to a dedicated, closer monitoring protocol; please refer to the section dedicated to "Pregnancy."
What gynecological check-ups are recommended for women of reproductive age?
- Annual gynecological examination: consists of evaluating the internal (uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries) and external genitalia (vulva and vagina) to detect any abnormalities, signs of infection, or concurrent disease; a routine annual examination is recommended for all women of reproductive age, even in the absence of symptoms.
- Pap smear and ThinPrep: cytological tests that identify cervical infections and enable the early detection of precancerous cellular alterations.
- HPV test: identifies patients with an active HPV infection, which is recognized as the primary cause of cervical cancer.
- Pelvic floor assessment
- Transabdominal and transvaginal pelvic ultrasound: during the annual gynecological examination, it is advisable to perform a pelvic ultrasound—preferably transvaginal—which allows for the diagnosis of conditions such as fibroids, suspected endometrial polyps, endometriosis, and polycystic ovaries, all of which may significantly affect reproductive health.
- Hormone profile assessment: the physician may order blood tests to evaluate hormone levels, particularly in cases of infertility or menstrual cycle irregularities.
- Contraceptive counseling: the clinician can provide guidance on the selection and proper use of contraceptive methods to prevent unplanned pregnancies.
- It is important to remember that each patient is unique and may require tailored diagnostic pathways based on individual clinical needs and medical history.
What other check-ups or tests may be beneficial for women of reproductive age?
- Senological examination: starting at age 20, regular breast self-examinations are recommended; with increasing age, it is advisable to undergo a breast ultrasound (indicated for women under 45) and an annual mammogram.
- Blood tests and blood pressure measurement: annually, alongside lipid panel testing, weight monitoring, and lifestyle assessment regarding diet and physical exercise.
- Thyroid evaluation: optimal thyroid function is critical for female health; assessment is carried out through laboratory blood tests and thyroid ultrasound.
- Dermatological examination: annually, or with higher frequency in cases of a family history of melanoma or prolonged sun exposure.
- Cardiovascular assessment and blood pressure monitoring: essential for evaluating the risk of hypertension, typically increasing from age 50 onward.
- Bone Densitometry (DEXA) and periodic bone health screening
- Nutritional consultation
Pregnancy
The standard gestational period spans 40 weeks, during which fetal development occurs.
The first eight weeks are critical as the embryo forms its primary organ systems; the mother may experience symptoms such as nausea, mood changes, fatigue, and breast tenderness.
Between weeks 8 and 13, maternal physical changes progress, fetal sexual differentiation occurs, and the vocal cords begin to form. This marks the conclusion of the most critical period regarding the risk of miscarriage.
From weeks 13 to 17, fatigue and nausea typically subside, while fetal structural development is fully established.
Between weeks 17 and 21, the first fetal movements can generally be perceived.
Between weeks 21 and 26, the abdomen enlarges noticeably as the fetus doubles in weight, begins opening and closing eyelids, and initiates practice breathing movements.
Week 26 marks the beginning of the third trimester: fetal growth accelerates, and between weeks 30 and 35, the fetus gradually settles into position for delivery; the mother may experience lower back pain, abdominal discomfort, and more frequent uterine contractions.
Between weeks 35 and 40, fetal maturation is completed, with the fetal head typically engaging into the pelvic cavity.
How often should a pregnant woman attend prenatal check-ups?
A pregnant patient should attend monthly obstetric visits to assess:
• The progression of the pregnancy
• Diagnostic imaging and instrumental test results
• Required routine blood and biochemical tests
• Clinical parameters such as blood pressure and maternal weight gain.
• The progression of the pregnancy
• Diagnostic imaging and instrumental test results
• Required routine blood and biochemical tests
• Clinical parameters such as blood pressure and maternal weight gain.
What gynecological and obstetric check-ups are recommended during pregnancy?
Becoming a parent is a transformative experience accompanied by significant emotional changes. To navigate this journey safely and smoothly, it is essential to rely on a multidisciplinary team of gynecologists, neonatologists, and midwives dedicated to providing continuous clinical care and guidance.
The key examinations and diagnostic screenings recommended during pregnancy include:
1) MONTHLY OBSTETRIC CONSULTATION
2) PRENATAL DIAGNOSTIC TESTING
– First Trimester Obstetric Ultrasound
A non-invasive diagnostic ultrasound performed between gestational weeks 6 and 12 to confirm intrauterine implantation, fetal viability, and the number of embryos.
– Combined First-Trimester Screening (Bi-Test + NT)
A screening test based on a risk calculation integrating several clinical parameters:
• Maternal age
• Ultrasound markers (nuchal translucency, presence of the nasal bone)
• Biochemical markers (free ß-hCG and PAPP-A) measured from a maternal blood sample.
Performed between gestational weeks 11 and 13.
The combined test provides a detection rate of approximately 85–90% for Trisomy 21, with an estimated 5% false-positive rate.
– Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT / Cell-Free Fetal DNA)
An advanced non-invasive prenatal screening test that detects numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities and severe genetic conditions by analyzing cell-free fetal DNA isolated from maternal blood, starting from the 10th week of gestation.
– Mid-Trimester Anomaly Scan (Morphology Ultrasound)
The detailed anomaly scan is a core component of non-invasive prenatal assessment, performed between gestational weeks 19 and 22.
This comprehensive diagnostic scan evaluates the anatomical development of fetal organ systems and anatomical structures:
cranium, intracranial anatomy, thorax, abdomen, humerus, femur, urinary bladder, kidneys, adrenal glands, gallbladder, stomach, heart, great vessels, and genitalia.
It allows for the early detection of structural malformations across all analyzed regions.
– Fetal Echocardiography
A specialized diagnostic examination performed by fetal and pediatric cardiology specialists to thoroughly assess fetal cardiac anatomy and great vessel function. Conducted between weeks 24 and 29 of gestation, it enables the screening and early diagnosis of congenital heart defects.
– Third Trimester Growth Ultrasound + Doppler Velocimetry
The third-trimester ultrasound with Doppler velocimetry (growth scan) evaluates placental function, fetal growth trajectory, and fetal well-being.
Performed between weeks 29 and 34 of gestation, it assesses:
• Fetal biometry and growth
• Uteroplacental and fetoplacental hemodynamics
• Fetal biophysical well-being
The key examinations and diagnostic screenings recommended during pregnancy include:
1) MONTHLY OBSTETRIC CONSULTATION
2) PRENATAL DIAGNOSTIC TESTING
– First Trimester Obstetric Ultrasound
A non-invasive diagnostic ultrasound performed between gestational weeks 6 and 12 to confirm intrauterine implantation, fetal viability, and the number of embryos.
– Combined First-Trimester Screening (Bi-Test + NT)
A screening test based on a risk calculation integrating several clinical parameters:
• Maternal age
• Ultrasound markers (nuchal translucency, presence of the nasal bone)
• Biochemical markers (free ß-hCG and PAPP-A) measured from a maternal blood sample.
Performed between gestational weeks 11 and 13.
The combined test provides a detection rate of approximately 85–90% for Trisomy 21, with an estimated 5% false-positive rate.
– Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT / Cell-Free Fetal DNA)
An advanced non-invasive prenatal screening test that detects numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities and severe genetic conditions by analyzing cell-free fetal DNA isolated from maternal blood, starting from the 10th week of gestation.
– Mid-Trimester Anomaly Scan (Morphology Ultrasound)
The detailed anomaly scan is a core component of non-invasive prenatal assessment, performed between gestational weeks 19 and 22.
This comprehensive diagnostic scan evaluates the anatomical development of fetal organ systems and anatomical structures:
cranium, intracranial anatomy, thorax, abdomen, humerus, femur, urinary bladder, kidneys, adrenal glands, gallbladder, stomach, heart, great vessels, and genitalia.
It allows for the early detection of structural malformations across all analyzed regions.
– Fetal Echocardiography
A specialized diagnostic examination performed by fetal and pediatric cardiology specialists to thoroughly assess fetal cardiac anatomy and great vessel function. Conducted between weeks 24 and 29 of gestation, it enables the screening and early diagnosis of congenital heart defects.
– Third Trimester Growth Ultrasound + Doppler Velocimetry
The third-trimester ultrasound with Doppler velocimetry (growth scan) evaluates placental function, fetal growth trajectory, and fetal well-being.
Performed between weeks 29 and 34 of gestation, it assesses:
• Fetal biometry and growth
• Uteroplacental and fetoplacental hemodynamics
• Fetal biophysical well-being
What additional support services can benefit pregnant women?
Parenthood is a learned journey. Antenatal education classes are an integral part of prenatal care, supporting both prospective mothers and partners.
These sessions are led by midwives with input from gynecologists, psychologists, neonatologists, and anesthesiologists.
They empower women by fostering confidence in their physical capabilities throughout this transformative period.
Courses provide comprehensive information on the physiology of pregnancy, labor, delivery, and lactation, equipping couples with effective techniques to manage normal prenatal anxiety.
These sessions are led by midwives with input from gynecologists, psychologists, neonatologists, and anesthesiologists.
They empower women by fostering confidence in their physical capabilities throughout this transformative period.
Courses provide comprehensive information on the physiology of pregnancy, labor, delivery, and lactation, equipping couples with effective techniques to manage normal prenatal anxiety.
Prevention: what preventive screenings are recommended during pregnancy?
• Obstetric consultation
• Monthly blood and biochemical tests as indicated by the attending physician
• Comprehensive cervicovaginal swabs + Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening
• Pap smear
• Urinalysis and urine culture
• Maternal weight monitoring
• Blood pressure assessment
• First-trimester ultrasound with Nuchal Translucency (NT) measurement
• Mid-trimester anomaly scan (morphology ultrasound)
• Fetal echocardiography
• Third-trimester growth ultrasound + Doppler velocimetry
• Cardiotocography (CTG) monitoring
• Monthly blood and biochemical tests as indicated by the attending physician
• Comprehensive cervicovaginal swabs + Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening
• Pap smear
• Urinalysis and urine culture
• Maternal weight monitoring
• Blood pressure assessment
• First-trimester ultrasound with Nuchal Translucency (NT) measurement
• Mid-trimester anomaly scan (morphology ultrasound)
• Fetal echocardiography
• Third-trimester growth ultrasound + Doppler velocimetry
• Cardiotocography (CTG) monitoring
Menopause
Understanding what to expect during menopause helps in identifying and managing your body's physiological changes. Menopausal symptoms vary significantly between individuals, presenting unique patterns and clinical profiles in every patient.
What are common symptoms of menopause?
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Mood irritability
• Concentration difficulties
• Migraines
• Sleep disturbances
• Weight gain
• Decreased libido
• Irregular menstrual cycles (leading to complete cessation)
• Dyspareunia (pain during intercourse)
• Vulvovaginal dryness (ATROPHY)
• Anxiety
• Depressive symptoms
• Recurrent cystitis
• Urinary incontinence or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Joint and muscle pain
• Abdominal bloating
Every woman experiences menopause differently.
Consulting a physician specialized in menopausal medicine is essential for tailoring an effective clinical approach to symptom management.
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Mood irritability
• Concentration difficulties
• Migraines
• Sleep disturbances
• Weight gain
• Decreased libido
• Irregular menstrual cycles (leading to complete cessation)
• Dyspareunia (pain during intercourse)
• Vulvovaginal dryness (ATROPHY)
• Anxiety
• Depressive symptoms
• Recurrent cystitis
• Urinary incontinence or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Joint and muscle pain
• Abdominal bloating
Every woman experiences menopause differently.
Consulting a physician specialized in menopausal medicine is essential for tailoring an effective clinical approach to symptom management.
How long do menopausal symptoms last?
Menopausal symptoms typically persist for up to four years following the final menstrual period. In some patients, they may continue for a longer duration.
During the postmenopausal years, estrogen deficiency can lead to physiological and psychological changes with potential long-term health implications.
Selecting the appropriate management strategy is an individualized clinical decision. Your gynecologist will outline the available options along with their respective clinical benefits and considerations.
During the postmenopausal years, estrogen deficiency can lead to physiological and psychological changes with potential long-term health implications.
Selecting the appropriate management strategy is an individualized clinical decision. Your gynecologist will outline the available options along with their respective clinical benefits and considerations.
How often should a postmenopausal woman visit the gynecologist?
Entering menopause does not mean discontinuing gynecological care; on the contrary, maintaining an annual gynecological examination is critical, including:
• Pap smear
• HPV test
• Transvaginal ultrasound.
Patients are advised to bring the results of the following diagnostic assessments to their gynecological appointment:
• Bone Densitometry (DEXA/MOC)
• Mammography and breast ultrasound
• Laboratory blood tests: Complete Blood Count (CBC), Vitamin D, Homocysteine, Fasting Blood Glucose, Serum Creatinine, Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), Total Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, Total Bilirubin, Serum Protein Electrophoresis, Urinalysis, TSH
• Pap smear
• HPV test
• Transvaginal ultrasound.
Patients are advised to bring the results of the following diagnostic assessments to their gynecological appointment:
• Bone Densitometry (DEXA/MOC)
• Mammography and breast ultrasound
• Laboratory blood tests: Complete Blood Count (CBC), Vitamin D, Homocysteine, Fasting Blood Glucose, Serum Creatinine, Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), Total Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, Total Bilirubin, Serum Protein Electrophoresis, Urinalysis, TSH
What other check-ups or tests can be helpful for a menopausal woman?
• Cardiology consultation
• ECG
• ECG
Prevention: what preventive and gynecological screenings are recommended for a menopausal woman?
• Gynecological examination
• Pap test
• HPV test
• Transvaginal ultrasound
• Breast ultrasound
• Mammography
• Bone mineral density scan (DEXA)
• ECG
• Cardiology consultation
• Pap test
• HPV test
• Transvaginal ultrasound
• Breast ultrasound
• Mammography
• Bone mineral density scan (DEXA)
• ECG
• Cardiology consultation
Tests to determine whether menopause has started:
• FSH
• LH
• 17-beta estradiol
• DHEA
• DHEA-S
• Free testosterone
• LH
• 17-beta estradiol
• DHEA
• DHEA-S
• Free testosterone
Clinical Insights
Weight Gain
Percentage of affected women: 67%
Underlying mechanism: it is caused by the drop in estrogen and the body's subsequent attempt to increase the synthesis of these hormones by boosting aromatase activity—the adipose tissue enzyme responsible for converting androgens into estrogens. In other words, in response to declining estrogen levels, the menopausal body responds by expanding adipose tissue, as it contains the key enzymatic system for androgen-to-estrogen conversion.
Other correlations: it may also be linked to psychological factors, such as anxiety and agitation, which can lead to binge-eating episodes.
Hot Flashes
They represent the most classic symptom of menopause.
They affect more than 70% of women, lasting on average for a couple of years, though in 25% of cases they may persist for more than 5 years.
Percentage of affected women: >70%
Characteristics: they present as a sudden sensation of intense heat that spreads across the entire body like a wave; this heat lasts from 30 seconds to 3 minutes and typically ends with cold sweats.
Hot flashes can recur multiple times throughout the day; the daily frequency can reach 15–20 episodes.
Nighttime hot flashes disrupt sleep, leading to insomnia.
Associated symptoms: often accompanied by palpitations.
Arthralgia and Muscle Pain
Percentage of affected women: 83%
Underlying mechanism: most likely, they are closely linked to the decline in estrogen levels.
Characteristics: they reduce joint elasticity and range of motion.
Susceptibility to Fatigue
Percentage of affected women: 43%
Characteristics: it is a symptom of variable intensity, generally dependent on preexisting personality traits and/or concomitant socio-environmental factors.
Irritability and Nervousness
Percentage of affected women: 49% and 47%
Underlying mechanism: clearly linked to insomnia and the hormonal deficiencies typical of menopause.
In some women, it also reflects the emotional distress associated with the loss of fertility and "youth".
Night Sweats
Percentage of affected women: 44%
Characteristics: associated with the phenomenon of nocturnal hot flashes.
Consequences: they disrupt night sleep, representing a potential cause of insomnia.
Headache
Percentage of affected women: 45%
Underlying mechanism: more frequently observed in women experiencing a higher frequency of hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia.
Insomnia
Percentage of affected women: 38%
Underlying mechanism: hormonal fluctuations and nocturnal hot flashes.
Low Mood (Depression)
Percentage of affected women: 33%
Palpitations
Percentage of affected women: 46%
Characteristics: they result from a sudden increase in heart rate; they are generally transient.
Associated symptoms: may accompany hot flashes.
Pain During Intercourse (Dyspareunia)
Percentage of affected women: 33%
Underlying mechanism: vaginal atrophy.
Urinary Disorders
Percentage of affected women: 38%
Underlying mechanism: structural changes in the connective tissues of the bladder, urethra, and other anatomical structures involved in urinary elimination.
Vaginal Dryness
Percentage of affected women: 26%
Underlying mechanism: vaginal atrophy.
Percentage of affected women: 67%
Underlying mechanism: it is caused by the drop in estrogen and the body's subsequent attempt to increase the synthesis of these hormones by boosting aromatase activity—the adipose tissue enzyme responsible for converting androgens into estrogens. In other words, in response to declining estrogen levels, the menopausal body responds by expanding adipose tissue, as it contains the key enzymatic system for androgen-to-estrogen conversion.
Other correlations: it may also be linked to psychological factors, such as anxiety and agitation, which can lead to binge-eating episodes.
Hot Flashes
They represent the most classic symptom of menopause.
They affect more than 70% of women, lasting on average for a couple of years, though in 25% of cases they may persist for more than 5 years.
Percentage of affected women: >70%
Characteristics: they present as a sudden sensation of intense heat that spreads across the entire body like a wave; this heat lasts from 30 seconds to 3 minutes and typically ends with cold sweats.
Hot flashes can recur multiple times throughout the day; the daily frequency can reach 15–20 episodes.
Nighttime hot flashes disrupt sleep, leading to insomnia.
Associated symptoms: often accompanied by palpitations.
Arthralgia and Muscle Pain
Percentage of affected women: 83%
Underlying mechanism: most likely, they are closely linked to the decline in estrogen levels.
Characteristics: they reduce joint elasticity and range of motion.
Susceptibility to Fatigue
Percentage of affected women: 43%
Characteristics: it is a symptom of variable intensity, generally dependent on preexisting personality traits and/or concomitant socio-environmental factors.
Irritability and Nervousness
Percentage of affected women: 49% and 47%
Underlying mechanism: clearly linked to insomnia and the hormonal deficiencies typical of menopause.
In some women, it also reflects the emotional distress associated with the loss of fertility and "youth".
Night Sweats
Percentage of affected women: 44%
Characteristics: associated with the phenomenon of nocturnal hot flashes.
Consequences: they disrupt night sleep, representing a potential cause of insomnia.
Headache
Percentage of affected women: 45%
Underlying mechanism: more frequently observed in women experiencing a higher frequency of hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia.
Insomnia
Percentage of affected women: 38%
Underlying mechanism: hormonal fluctuations and nocturnal hot flashes.
Low Mood (Depression)
Percentage of affected women: 33%
Palpitations
Percentage of affected women: 46%
Characteristics: they result from a sudden increase in heart rate; they are generally transient.
Associated symptoms: may accompany hot flashes.
Pain During Intercourse (Dyspareunia)
Percentage of affected women: 33%
Underlying mechanism: vaginal atrophy.
Urinary Disorders
Percentage of affected women: 38%
Underlying mechanism: structural changes in the connective tissues of the bladder, urethra, and other anatomical structures involved in urinary elimination.
Vaginal Dryness
Percentage of affected women: 26%
Underlying mechanism: vaginal atrophy.
What treatment options are available?
Systemic or Local Hormone Replacement Therapy
The purpose of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is to replace the estrogen that declines in your body during menopause.
HRT is available as oral tablets, transdermal patches, or gels. HRT is not suitable for all women. Following a comprehensive examination, your gynecologist will determine if this therapy is appropriate for you and provide tailored recommendations regarding the most effective treatment.
Systemic or Local Bioidentical Hormone Therapies
Hormone therapies are often met with hesitation because synthetic hormones, while structurally similar to endogenous hormones, are not identical.
There is an alternative: using molecules chemically identical to those produced by the human body. Bioidentical hormones are exact molecular copies of endogenous human hormones, fully recognized and metabolized by the body as natural.
They are structured precisely like the hormones secreted by the body. They can be formulated as systemic oral therapies or as topical gels and creams.
One of the main advantages of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is the ability to tailor the treatment to each individual patient—utilizing precise calculations based on variables such as hormone levels, weight, and height—to deliver the optimal percentage and precise balance of each hormone, like a custom-made suit. They can be administered via both topical and systemic routes.
The purpose of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is to replace the estrogen that declines in your body during menopause.
HRT is available as oral tablets, transdermal patches, or gels. HRT is not suitable for all women. Following a comprehensive examination, your gynecologist will determine if this therapy is appropriate for you and provide tailored recommendations regarding the most effective treatment.
Systemic or Local Bioidentical Hormone Therapies
Hormone therapies are often met with hesitation because synthetic hormones, while structurally similar to endogenous hormones, are not identical.
There is an alternative: using molecules chemically identical to those produced by the human body. Bioidentical hormones are exact molecular copies of endogenous human hormones, fully recognized and metabolized by the body as natural.
They are structured precisely like the hormones secreted by the body. They can be formulated as systemic oral therapies or as topical gels and creams.
One of the main advantages of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is the ability to tailor the treatment to each individual patient—utilizing precise calculations based on variables such as hormone levels, weight, and height—to deliver the optimal percentage and precise balance of each hormone, like a custom-made suit. They can be administered via both topical and systemic routes.
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