Menopause & Midlife Women’s Health

Menopause is a natural biological milestone in a woman’s life, marking the end of her reproductive years. While it is an inevitable phase, its effects on physical health, emotional well-being, and long-term vitality can vary widely. For some women, menopause may arrive quietly with minimal disruption; for others, it can bring challenging symptoms that affect daily life, relationships, and self-confidence.

The transition to menopause—known as perimenopause—can begin several years before the final menstrual period, and it is driven by fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone. These hormonal shifts influence not just menstrual cycles, but also bone density, heart health, metabolism, mood, and sleep.

With her extensive clinical expertise and a compassionate, patient-focused approach, Dr. Parul Sharma offers comprehensive care for women navigating menopause and midlife. She focuses on both symptom management and long-term health protection, empowering women to embrace this life stage with confidence and vitality.

Understanding Menopause and Perimenopause

Menopause is diagnosed when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without menstruation, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. Perimenopause, the transitional phase, can begin 4–8 years earlier and is often marked by irregular menstrual cycles, changes in bleeding patterns, and the onset of menopausal symptoms.

Common symptoms include:

• Irregular or skipped periods
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability
• Fatigue and low energy
• Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intimacy
• Decreased libido
• Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
• Memory lapses and reduced concentration
• Joint or muscle aches

While some women experience only mild changes, others may find their quality of life significantly affected.

Why Menopause Matters for Overall Health

Menopause is not just about the end of menstruation—it is a period of profound physiological change that can impact long-term health. The drop in estrogen levels influences multiple systems in the body, including:

• Bone health: Increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures due to reduced bone density.
• Cardiovascular health: Higher risk of heart disease and changes in cholesterol levels.
• Metabolism: Slower metabolism and changes in body fat distribution, leading to weight gain.
• Muscle mass: Loss of muscle strength and tone.
• Urogenital health: Increased incidence of urinary incontinence, recurrent urinary tract infections, and vaginal atrophy.

Addressing these changes proactively can prevent complications and promote healthy ageing.

Comprehensive Evaluation & Testing

Dr. Parul Sharma believes that thorough assessment is key to developing effective, personalised menopause care plans. Her evaluation may include:

1. Detailed medical history – Menstrual patterns, symptom timeline, medical conditions, and family health history.
2. Physical examination – Including weight, blood pressure, and cardiovascular assessment.
3. Hormonal blood tests – FSH, LH, estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid function tests.
4. Bone health assessment – DEXA scan to detect early signs of osteoporosis.
5. Metabolic health tests – Lipid profile, blood sugar, and HbA1c for cardiovascular and diabetes risk.
6. Pelvic examination – To assess vaginal health and rule out other gynaecological concerns.

These investigations help determine whether symptoms are due to menopause or another underlying condition, ensuring accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Personalised Menopause Management Plans

Dr. Sharma recognises that menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience. She develops tailored care plans that combine medical treatment, lifestyle guidance, and emotional support.

1. Lifestyle Optimisation

• A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, protein, and phytoestrogens (plant-based estrogen sources).
• Regular exercise, including strength training for bone health, aerobic activity for cardiovascular fitness, and flexibility training for mobility.
• Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
• Adequate sleep hygiene to support hormonal balance and mental health.

2. Hormone Therapy (HRT)

• For eligible women, HRT can significantly reduce hot flashes, improve sleep, maintain bone density, and enhance quality of life.
• Dr. Sharma carefully evaluates risks and benefits, prescribing the most appropriate form—oral, transdermal, or localised vaginal estrogen—based on individual needs.

3. Non-Hormonal Therapies

• For women who cannot or prefer not to use HRT, options include non-hormonal medications, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements.
• Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants for dryness, and certain non-hormonal medications for hot flashes.

4. Bone and Heart Health Strategies

• Nutritional support, weight-bearing exercises, and supplementation to strengthen bones.
• Cardiovascular health monitoring and cholesterol management.

5. Sexual and Urogenital Health

• Localised estrogen therapy for vaginal health.
• Pelvic floor exercises to reduce urinary incontinence.

6. Mental and Emotional Support

• Mood swings, anxiety, and depression during menopause are common but treatable.
• Counselling, support groups, and lifestyle interventions are integrated into care.

Care Beyond Menopause

Postmenopausal health management is just as important as symptom relief during perimenopause. Dr. Sharma’s ongoing care focuses on:

• Monitoring bone density and cardiovascular risk.
• Preventing osteoporosis and fractures.
• Managing metabolic changes to avoid diabetes and weight-related complications.
• Supporting brain health and cognitive function.

When to Seek Help

While menopause is a natural process, certain symptoms warrant professional evaluation, including:

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding during perimenopause.
• Severe hot flashes or night sweats disrupting sleep and daily activities.
• Persistent mood changes or feelings of depression.
• Unexplained weight gain or loss.
• Vaginal pain, dryness, or recurrent urinary tract infections.
• Concerns about bone health, memory, or cardiovascular risk.

Early intervention not only improves quality of life but also reduces the risk of long-term complications.

Empowering Women in Midlife and Beyond

Menopause is not the end of vitality—it is a new beginning. With the right care, women can emerge from this transition stronger, healthier, and more self-aware.

Dr. Parul Sharma is dedicated to helping women navigate perimenopause, menopause, and the years beyond with clarity, confidence, and holistic support. By combining clinical expertise with a deep understanding of women’s unique needs, she ensures that every patient receives tailored, thoughtful, and effective care—supporting not just a smooth transition, but a vibrant life in the years ahead.