Menopause Case Studies

Menopause is a health issue for midlife women due to the fact that this is a time in their life where they will have many changes going on in their body. Every woman is different when it comes to the symptoms that she may have during this period in her life. It will be vital as providers to realize that each person should be treated individually, and a plan of care should match each patient. Due to the changes during menopause, many women will have lifelong problems due to a decrease in the amount of estrogen in their body. Managing the symptoms will be high importance for health care providers.
Subjective Data M.T. is a very pleasant 68 year old Caucasian female who was referred to the office by her primary care physician (PCP) for a
The differential diagnosis of a UTI was included due to the complaint of burning upon urination. Also, vaginal cancer has to be ruled out since the patient was referred for a possible vaginal lesion.
Objective Data
Vitals
Weight: 202, Height: 68 inches, BMI: 30.71, BP: 110/70, Pulse: 75, Temp: 98.6
Examination:
General appearing- Healthy appearing adult female in no acute distress. Alert and oriented, answers questions appropriately
Skin- Skin is warm, dry, clean and intact. No lesions or rashes noted
HEENT- Normcephalic, no conjunctival or scleral injection, ears are patent and clear bilaterally, neck is supple no thyromegaly or nodules, oral mucosa is pink and
After menopause, there is a decrease level of circulation estrogen, which causes atrophic vaginitis (Schuiling & Likis, 2013). She was also educated about her condition and the need to use local estrogen to help restore the normal pH levels and thicken and revascularize the epithelium. She was told and aware of the risk and benefits of local estrogen cream and agrees with using the medication. Estrace Cream, 0.1 MG/GM, apply pea size to vagina once a day, 30 day supply, 42.5 gram tube, refills 4 was prescribed for the patient. The patient was made aware that if she does decide to become sexually active, she can use an over the counter lubricant to help her feel more comfortable during sexual intercourse. She should follow up in the office in 4 months and call the office at any time with any questions or concerns.
Conclusion
Atrophic vaginitis is a condition that many women unfortunately develop due to the changes in their body after menopause. Active diagnosis and treatment by the patient’s provider may prevent development of atrophic vaginitis, or as least minimize the symptoms for the condition. Health care provides should be aware of the treatment options available so the patient can make an informed decision to help treat her condition and lead as much of a normal life as