Midlife

What is Midlife?

At Sanford Women’s, we define midlife as the point in a woman’s life when she is transitioning out of her childbearing years. While menopause is the most identifiable change that comes with midlife, there are other things to consider as your body changes.

Bone Health: As you age, you naturally lose bone density, which leaves you at risk for broken bones. Sanford Women’s offers bone density screenings to let you know how your bones are doing now, and preventive care to keep your bones strong.

Depression and Mood Swings: Hormonal fluctuations compounded with uncomfortable physical symptoms and normal life stressors can become overwhelming. See Sanford Women’s for a specialist who knows that your mental and emotional needs are as precious as your physical ones.

Health Behavioral Coaching: As your body reaches this new stage of life, your physical activity and nutritional needs may change. Sanford Women’s has a team of experts dedicated to helping you navigate the best way to meet your changing needs.

Hormone Therapy: Menopause is a huge hormonal change, and each woman experiences it differently. If menopause symptoms ever become unbearable or start to negatively impact your quality of life, you and your health care provider may discuss hormonal therapy. Sanford Women’s is here to make sure you never have to suffer.

Sexual Health: Before and during menopause you may experience pain during intercourse, dryness or a decrease in your sex drive. These issues are common, but not inevitable and certainly not something you need to suffer through. Sanford Women’s believes you deserve intimacy at every stage in your life.

Breast Health: The American Cancer Society recommends that women ages 45 to 54 should get mammograms once a year, and women ages 55 and older get mammograms every two years. While those are the general standards, you should discuss your individual needs with your health care provider. They know you the best and you can decide together what is best for you.

To learn more about cancer screenings, general breast health, or to find a breast health specialist, visit the Edith Sanford Breast Center.

Internal Medicine: When you no longer need regular gynecological or obstetric care, you may prefer to switch to an internal medicine provider. Anyone over 18 can see an internal medicine provider for their primary care needs. Think of them as a family medicine doctor specifically for adults.

Find an Internal Medicine Doctor