Menopause
Menopause occurs when a woman has gone 1 full year without having a period. This is an indication that a woman is no longer fertile. This normally occurs to women within their 40s and 50s but can vary widely. The time leading up to menopause is called perimenopause. This period of perimenopause can bring about several changes. It normally lasts between 2-8 years, once again, varying widely amongst women. Perimenopause can begin anywhere from a woman’s 30s to her 50s.
A normal menstrual cycle is controlled heavily by hormone fluctuation. There are natural changes within a woman’s reproductive and hormone cycles as she ages. During this time hormone levels rise and lower in irregular ways. This leads to the common symptoms of perimenopause, including inconsistent menstruation. Estrogen and progesterone are hormones that play vital roles in the menstrual cycle. Eventually, these two hormones will reduce to levels low enough to stop menstruation completely.
Alongside the natural causes of menopause, there are some treatments that can induce menopause earlier than normal. These include: removing ovaries, having radiation therapy, or having chemotherapy.
There are several common symptoms that occur. These symptoms can range from mild to severe amongst women. Symptoms include period irregularity, hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings, headaches, irregular heartbeats, memory and cognitive issues, and vaginal dryness. Symptoms often become worse throughout the first year or more after menopause has occurred. Eventually, the hormones will return to a more balanced state, helping to relieve some symptoms. If the symptoms impact your day-to-day life, it is recommended that you contact your doctor.
Although a diagnosis is not needed, it is recommended that women continue their yearly check-ups to monitor additional risks that increase after menopause.
The only treatment that is necessary during perimenopause is those treatments that help to reduce symptoms. Some recommendations for treating symptoms include adjusting lifestyle habits to be healthier, this includes eating a balanced diet, exercising, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, reducing stress, and stopping smoking. Prescription medication, such as birth control pills, hormone therapy, antidepressants, and others can help with symptoms.
It is important to discuss all treatment options at length with your doctor to discuss any possible health risks or side effects.
