Menopause Consultations
in Stony Plain, AB

Frequently asked questions

What is menopause and when does it typically start?

Menopause is a natural stage of life that marks the end of menstrual cycles and fertility. It is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period.

Most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being around 51. It occurs as hormone levels—especially estrogen—decline over time.

At U Renew, Dr. Aluko supports women from Stony Plain, Spruce Grove, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Leduc and the greater Edmonton area through every stage of menopause with personalized care.

What are the most common symptoms of menopause?

Menopause symptoms vary widely, but may include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Sleep problems

• Mood changes or anxiety

• Vaginal dryness and discomfort

• Memory or concentration issues

• Weight gain

Not all women experience symptoms, and many improve over time. Lifestyle choices and treatment options can significantly impact how you feel during this transition.

What is perimenopause and what symptoms should I expect?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, when hormone levels begin to fluctuate.

Common symptoms include:

• Irregular periods

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Mood changes

• Sleep disturbances

• Vaginal dryness

• Weight changes

Every woman’s experience is different. For many, this is the ideal time to address symptoms early and take a proactive approach to long-term health.

What is postmenopause?

Postmenopause refers to the years after menopause has occurred. During this stage, hormone levels remain consistently low.

While some symptoms may improve, others—such as vaginal dryness or changes in bone density—may persist and benefit from ongoing care.

What is induced menopause?

Induced menopause occurs when menopause is triggered by medical treatments rather than natural aging.

This can happen after:

• Surgical removal of the ovaries

• Chemotherapy or radiation

• Certain medications

Symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances may appear suddenly and feel more intense compared to natural menopause.

Is it normal to have a lower sex drive during menopause?

Yes—changes in sexual desire are common during menopause, but they are not the same for everyone. Some women experience decreased libido, while others notice no change or even an increase.

Lower estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse, which may affect desire. However, emotional, psychological, and relationship factors can also play a role.

If this is affecting your quality of life, a consultation can help identify the cause and explore treatment options.

Can menopause cause headaches or migraines?

Yes, hormonal changes during perimenopause can contribute to headaches or migraines—especially in women who have previously experienced hormone-related headaches.

For many women, headaches improve after menopause when hormone levels stabilize. However, if you experience severe or unusual headaches, it’s important to seek medical evaluation.

Why am I having trouble sleeping during menopause?

Sleep disturbances are common during menopause and may be caused by:

• Night sweats (hot flashes during sleep)

• Hormonal changes

• Stress or anxiety

• Sleep conditions such as sleep apnea

Improving sleep habits—such as maintaining a consistent bedtime, avoiding caffeine, and keeping your bedroom cool—can help. If symptoms persist, further evaluation may be recommended.

Does menopause cause mood swings or depression?

Many women experience mood changes during perimenopause, including irritability, anxiety, or low mood.

While most women do not develop clinical depression, those with a history of depression, PMS, or high stress may be more vulnerable.

If mood changes are affecting your daily life, treatment options are available and can be discussed during your consultation.

How can I treat vaginal dryness during menopause?

Vaginal dryness is one of the most common menopause symptoms and can lead to discomfort, painful intercourse, and urinary symptoms.

Treatment options include:

• Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants

• Lifestyle changes (avoiding irritants like scented products)

• Hormone-based therapies

• Non-hormonal treatments such as laser therapy

At our Stony Plain medical centre, we offer personalized solutions for women from across the Edmonton area seeking relief from vaginal dryness and discomfort.

What can I do to improve my skin during menopause?

Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to reduced collagen, dryness, and loss of skin elasticity.

To support healthy skin:

• Use daily sunscreen

• Stay hydrated

• Maintain a balanced diet

• Prioritize sleep

Advanced treatments such as PRP (platelet-rich plasma) may also help improve skin texture and appearance. Ask about options during your consultation.