Menopause is the medical term for "the change of life." It occurs as your body gradually stops ovulating. As a result, you stop menstruating, or having your period.

Staying healthy after menopause requires a whole new set of rules. Decreased levels of hormones put you at risk for a number of illnesses, including heart disease and osteoporosis. To stave them off, you can trick your body into thinking it's still making lots of estrogen by initiating hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Trouble is, some women are afraid of HRT because a few studies have suggested that it may increase risk for breast and endometrial cancer in certain women.

At Einstein, our doctors take special care in helping women weigh the risks against the benefits of HRT. For most women the benefits far outweigh the risks.

In addition, one-on-one consultations with doctors who are experts at treating menopause are available at Einstein's Marion-Louise Saltzman Women's Center and the Women's Health Center at Germantown Community Health Services.

Following are some of the health issues many women face after menopause–and tips for how to prevent them:

Heart Disease Heart disease is the number one health risk for women after menopause.

Breast Cancer Your risk for breast cancer increases after menopause. Breast cancer has a high survival rate when detected early.

Gynecological Cancers After menopause, women are also at greater risk for gynecological cancers, including cervical, uterine and ovarian cancer. That's why it's so important to get regular gynecological exams.

Other Concerns Decreased levels of estrogen following menopause can trigger other changes in your body. Einstein's women's health experts can help you cope.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor who specializes in treating menopause, call 1-800-EINSTEIN. Or, find a doctor online.

Glossary Term:

The endometrium is the lining of the uterus.

Information from our Health Library about menopause.

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