Important Notice from
The North American Menopause Society

This guidebook, developed under the direction of the Consumer Education Committee of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS), provides current general information, but not specific clinical advice. It is not intended to substitute for the judgment of an individual's healthcare provider.

Menopause Guidebook: Helping Women Make Informed
Healthcare Decisions Around Menopause and Beyond

Table of Contents

Inside Front Cover

Menopause Basics

Timing & Terminology
Confirming Menopause Status

The Changing Body

Changes in Menstrual Periods
Reduced Fertility
Hot Flashes
Sleep Disturbances
Central Nervous System Changes
Headache
Memory & Concentration Changes
Mood Swings, Depression, & Anxiety
Vulvovaginal Symptoms
Changes in Sexual Function
Urinary Concerns
Other Potential Changes
Weight Gain
Heart Palpitations
Joint Pain
Skin Changes
Hair Changes
Eye Changes
Mouth & Dental Changes

Postmenopausal Health

Heart Disease
Diabetes
Osteoporosis
Cancer

The Hormone Therapy Story

Estrogen Therapy (ET)
Progestrogen & EPT
Custom-Compounded Hormones
Bioidentical Hormones
Contraindications
Side Effects
Risks
Weighing Benefits & Risks of ET/EPT
Different Women, Different Needs

Achieving Optimal Health

Lifestyle Changes
When More Help Is Needed

A Time of New Beginnings

Additional Resources

 Back Cover