CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va (CBS19 NEWS) -- March is Women's History Month. To mark it a women's health specialist at UVA spoke about menopause.

Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton discussed how menopause care has changed over the years, what the future of menopause care looks like, and new and current treatments that can help women manage during that time in their lives including menopausal hormone treatment. She also offered advice on how to deal with the changes while they are happening.

"Don't suffer in silence. There is help available," said Pinkerton. "If you are having symptoms and you aren't getting the help you need, please reach out, see a specialist, and tell us what’s going on."

Pinkerton said on average symptoms begin around age 51 or 52, although there is a range from 45 to 55. The three most common symptoms are night sweats, vaginal dryness, and hot flashes which 80% of women suffer from. Pinkerton says menopausal hormone treatment can help treat symptoms.