Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life when her periods stop permanently and she is no longer able to get pregnant. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. During this transition time, a woman's body experiences many changes as her hormone levels fluctuate and decline.
What causes menopause?
Menopause occurs due to decreasing levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone in a woman's body. As women age, their ovaries begin to produce less of these hormones until they eventually stop altogether. This usually happens between the ages 45-55. The average age for menopause in the United States is 51.
What are the signs and symptoms of menopause?
The changes associated with menopause can begin years before your final period. Signs and symptoms include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Mood changes like depression or anxiety
- Loss of bone density
- Changes in cholesterol levels
The severity of symptoms varies significantly among women. While some may experience mild symptoms, others can be severely impacted.
What health risks are associated with menopause?
There are certain health risks that become more prevalent after menopause, such as:
- Osteoporosis - loss of bone density increases risk of fracture
- Heart disease - risk increases after menopause
Managing menopause symptoms and staying healthy with lifestyle changes can help mitigate these risks.
How is menopause treated?
While menopause is irreversible, many women seek treatment to manage bothersome symptoms. Common treatments include:
- Hormone therapy - estrogen and/or progesterone to alleviate hot flashes and vaginal dryness
- Vaginal estrogen - localized, low-dose estrogen for vaginal symptoms
- Antidepressants - for mood swings, depression, and anxiety
- Lifestyle changes - improved diet, regular exercise, stress reduction
The approach depends on the severity of symptoms and your personal health history. Discuss all options with your healthcare provider at Restore Clinic.
I hope this overview on menopause gives you a better understanding of this important transition. Let me know if you have any other questions!