Pelvic pain following menopause is usually a sign of an underlying condition such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids or ovarian cancer.

Ovaries have a limited number of follicles that produce healthy eggs and hormones during each menstrual cycle, and as women age, the number of follicles depletes. Over time the quantity and quality of eggs decrease as menopause marks the end of fertility, so until you have reached this stage, there remains a chance you can conceive. In vitro fertilisation, egg donors and embryo adoption are a few fertility options for menopausal women.

Ovarian tissue grafting is done at a young age because an immature ovary is increasingly more hormonally active as compared to an aged ovary. During the laparoscopic procedure, a sample of egg-laden tissue is removed, sliced and frozen. The thawed out the egg is transplanted when needed through a laparoscopic procedure. Pregnancy entails grafting the slice close to or on the ovary, which then releases mature, healthy eggs that are picked up by the fallopian tubes for natural sterilisation.

Women with menopause display the following symptoms:

• Hot flashes
• Mood swings
• Vaginal dryness
• Reduced sex drive
• Sleep disturbances

Menopause is a natural biological occurrence that can be managed through hormonal therapy. Oestrogen therapy is effective in reducing hot flashes; our endocrinologists might recommend this type of treatment in low doses within a limited timeframe to relieve menopausal symptoms and prevent bone loss. Oestrogen may be applied to the vagina using a vaginal ring, tablet or cream to relieve vaginal dryness. Dr Benecke will discuss treatment options with you, mentioning the benefits and risks associated with hormone therapy.

Ovarian tissue freezing and grafting, which is in no means new as it has been offered to young patients with cancer who have undergone chemotherapy and intend to preserve their fertility can be used to delay menopausal symptoms. The tissue is grafted in the forearm or armpit where there's a good blood supply in the hope of restoring dwindling hormones to stall menopause for a further ten years. Despite the modern take on stalling menopause and prolonging fertility for another ten years, there remains a risk that the procedures of removing ovarian tissue and re-implantations of grafts might be subject to rejection resulting in menstrual bleeding disorders and the relapse of menopausal symptoms.

Going through transitions and challenges is a part of life. It is necessary to undergo physical and emotional changes to learn essential life lessons. Although going through menopause can be an incredibly stressful and emotional time, it can also be positive. Unlike going through puberty, where the woman is inexperienced, confused and nervous, women at this age should be able to navigate through menopause confidently. By delaying menopause, we deny an opportunity for growth.

Our specialists at the Endometriosis Clinic are determined to help you transition into this phase of your life with ease, relieving dreaded symptoms of hot flashes and vaginal dryness.