Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle and fertility.
It is simply another normal and dynamic stage of life.
Menopause is a transition in which it is confirmed on a single day with a process that has separate stages.
Premenopause or reproductive age – most women menstruate regularly and have the biological potential to get pregnant.
Perimenopause – marks the beginning of the transition to menopause. This stage can last several years with disruption to the menstrual cycle and hormonal shifts. Some symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and weight gain. These symptoms can differ from woman to woman and change day to day and month to month. There are many reasons why perimenopause happens, from fluctuating estrogen levels, fewer viable ovarian follicles to changes in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
Menopause – the final menstrual period and is officially confirmed after 12 months without a period. This marks the end of perimenopause. The median age for menopause is between 48 and 52 years old or it could happen earlier. Menopause happens because ovarian hormones are on the decline, other hormones rise to compensate, feedback loops aren’t functioning very well and there are no more viable follicles capable of maturing and ovulating.
Post-Menopause – this is everything after menopause until the end of life. Note, perimenopause symptoms can carry over into post-menopause and for some can last a decade or more. During this period risks of chronic diseases are more prevalent. This happens because estrogen and progesterone help protect women against many diseases and when these levels go down so does the level of protection they provide. For example, the good cholesterol seems to become less protective while the bad cholesterol goes up. Post menopause is a crucial time for building your body to become healthier.
Menopause Symptoms can vary widely among individuals, but some common symptoms include:
Sudden feelings of intense heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing.
Episodes of sweating during sleep, which can disrupt sleep patterns.
Changes in menstrual cycles, including skipped periods or irregular bleeding.
Changes in mood, such as irritability, anxiety, or depression.
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Reduced moisture and lubrication in the vaginal area, which can lead to discomfort during intercourse.
Decreased interest in sex or changes in sexual desire.
Feelings of tiredness or low energy levels.
Difficulty concentrating or remembering things.
Aches and pains, especially in the joints and muscles.
Starting to lose interest in doing things, social events, work, friends and family.
Can go anywhere in the body but mainly in the abdomen and is hard to shift. Could be hormonal or lifestyle.
Feelings of frustration or anger over small matters
A decrease in the size and wasting of the muscle. Can have up to 50% loss by age 70.
It’s essential to note that not all women will experience every symptom, and the severity can vary greatly. If you’re experiencing bothersome symptoms, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider for guidance and support.
