Dr. Elena Tomova, MARKOVS Medical Center: Menopause – A new phase in a woman’s life. How to maintain your health and harmony.
Menopause – A new phase in a woman’s life
Dr. Elena Tomova from Medical Center MARKOVS shares how to maintain your health and harmony.
Dr. Elena Tomova is a specialist with extensive experience in the field of women’s health, with a particular focus on hormonal balance and gynecological changes throughout the different stages of life – from adolescence to menopause.
She works with women of all ages, conducting preventive examinations and providing consultations for hormonal disorders, menopausal symptoms, and reproductive challenges.
She has completed specializations and trainings in Italy, Austria, and Germany.
Menopause is a natural stage in every woman’s life — the moment when the ovaries cease their endocrine function and estrogen levels gradually decline.
It usually occurs around the age of 50–51, although the timing is highly individual.
Menopause is diagnosed after at least 12 consecutive months without menstruation and with typical hormonal levels of FSH, LH, and estradiol.
This transition marks a new phase in which the body and mind undergo a number of changes.
While for some women the process is smooth, for others it may be accompanied by more pronounced physical and emotional symptoms.
This transition marks a new phase in which the body and mind undergo a series of changes.
While for some women the process is smooth, for others it may be accompanied by more pronounced physical and emotional symptoms.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms
Among the most frequent complaints I observe in my practice are hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and decreased libido.
Low estrogen levels often lead to vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, recurrent urinary tract infections, and urinary incontinence.
Metabolism slows down, abdominal fat tends to accumulate, and the risk of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome increases.
We should also not underestimate the higher likelihood of osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases — two conditions that require regular prevention and careful monitoring.
Acceptance and Awareness
Menopause is not a disease, but a natural part of a woman’s life.
It is important to embrace it as a time for reflection, self-care, and renewed attention to our own health.
The body changes, but this can also be a moment of new balance — a time to place ourselves at the center.
Psychological support plays an important role — conversations with loved ones, a partner, or a therapist often help in overcoming anxiety and mood fluctuations.
Caring for the Body Starts from Within
A healthy lifestyle is the most natural form of therapy.
I recommend a balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and proteins, as well as foods high in phytoestrogens — such as soy products, flaxseed, and red clover. It is important to limit excessive intake of sugar, coffee, and alcohol.
Physical activity is another key factor — regular movement, whether in the form of walks, yoga, dancing, or sports, improves sleep, reduces hot flashes, and boosts mood.
Treatment Options and Symptom Relief
For milder symptoms, I often recommend phytoestrogens and herbal supplements — such as sage, evening primrose, and ginseng. Lubricants and vaginal moisturizers are suitable for dryness and discomfort.
In certain cases, after a careful evaluation of the overall health, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be used. It is effective for hot flashes, sleep disturbances, osteoporosis, and vaginal atrophy. For localized issues, estrogen-containing creams or vaginal tablets are highly effective in relieving dryness and pain during intercourse.
In recent years, device-based therapies — including radiofrequency and laser treatments — have also been successfully applied, restoring vaginal tissue elasticity and improving sexual comfort.
Prevention Remains a Top Priority
Regular preventive check-ups are essential. I recommend annual monitoring of hormone levels, lipid profile, vitamin D and calcium, as well as bone density assessment through osteodensitometry. Gynecological exams and mammography screening should also be an integral part of women’s health care.
Menopause is a new beginning — a time to develop a more mature and conscious relationship with your own body. With proper information, support, and medical care, this stage can be calm, balanced, and fulfilling.
If you feel it is the right time for a conversation, preventive check-up, or a personalized care plan, I would be happy to welcome you at MARKOVS Medical Center.
I believe that awareness and trust between doctor and patient are the best form of treatment.
Author: Dr. Elena Tomova, MARKOVS Medical Center
