Menopause Clinic
The menopause is a natural stage in every woman’s life. However, the menopause can have a significant impact on how you feel, sleep, work, exercise and experience relationships. Hot flushes and night sweats are perhaps the best-known symptoms, but the menopause can manifest itself in many other ways. These include tiredness, sleep problems, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, changes in libido, or vaginal dryness and pain during sex. At the Menopause Clinic at Doktershuis Antverpia, we take a holistic approach. Under the guidance of Dr Ingrid Vandenput, we work with you to assess the symptoms you are experiencing, how they affect your daily life, and which approach is best suited to you.
When do we refer to the menopause?
The menopause is the point at which periods stop for good as a result of the natural decline in ovarian function. The period leading up to and following this is known as the perimenopause or the change of life. This phase can begin several years before the last period. Hormonal changes do not affect every woman in the same way.That is why the severity and combination of symptoms can also vary considerably. Menopause is therefore not a condition that requires treatment. However, the symptoms that may accompany it do warrant attention if they affect your quality of life.
What symptoms?
The hormonal changes that occur during the menopause can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
Hot flushes and night sweats – Sudden hot flushes and excessive sweating are typical symptoms of the menopause and can disrupt sleep. Sleep problems and tiredness – Difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night and fatigue are common during the menopause. Mood and concentration problems – Irritability, low mood, anxiety, forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating may be linked to hormonal changes. Irregular periods – During the menopause, periods may change in terms of frequency, duration and flow before they eventually stop. Vaginal dryness and pain during sex – A drop in oestrogen levels can lead to dryness, irritation and pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. Urinary tract symptoms – Frequent urination, a strong urge to urinate or recurring urinary tract symptoms may occur during and after the menopause. Reduced libido – A reduced sex drive can be caused by hormonal changes, but also by tiredness, stress, lack of sleep or other factors. Muscle and joint problems – Stiffness and sore muscles or joints may occur during the menopause. Weight gain and changes in body composition – Hormonal changes, age, sleep and lifestyle can contribute to changes in weight and body fat distribution. Bone health – After the menopause, the risk of osteoporosis may increase due to the drop in oestrogen levels. Cardiovascular health – During and after the menopause, the cardiovascular risk profile changes, making it important to focus on prevention.
When is the best time to make an appointment?
You don’t need to wait until your symptoms become severe. A consultation can be helpful if the menopause is affecting your quality of life. Expert guidance can also be valuable if you are experiencing early menopause or if you have concerns about your health during or after the menopause. Together, we will look at which approach and treatment options are best suited to you.
A personalised treatment plan
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to the menopause. What works well for one woman may not be suitable for another. During a consultation, we therefore begin by listening to your story. Together, we’ll look at which symptoms are most important to you and which treatment options are best suited to your needs. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, we will discuss: 
Changes to lifestyle and daily routines Non-hormonal treatments Hormone therapy where there is a medical indication for it Local treatment of vaginal and vulvar symptoms Further investigations or follow-up where appropriate The decision on which treatment to choose is always made on a case-by-case basis, following a discussion of the potential benefits, considerations and risks.