What is Menopause?
Menopause is a natural biological process that all women experience as they age. Specifically, menopause refers to when a woman stops menstruating permanently, marking the end of her reproductive years. This usually occurs between the ages of 45-55.
The lead up to menopause is referred to as perimenopause. During this transition period, estrogen levels begin to fluctuate and decline, which leads to common symptoms like:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Irregular periods
- Mood changes
- Trouble sleeping
- Weight gain
The most telltale sign of perimenopause is changes in your menstrual cycle. Periods may become heavier or lighter, last longer or shorter, or the time between cycles may lengthen. Extremely long gaps between periods often signify the body's shift toward menopause.
Once a woman hits menopause, periods stop completely for 12 consecutive months. At this point, pregnancy is no longer possible due to low estrogen levels and egg supply. While the average age for menopause is 51, it can occur anywhere from 40-58.
The duration of perimenopausal symptoms leading up to menopause varies too. Some women struggle with difficult symptoms for years before reaching menopause. For others, the transition is much quicker.
A blood test can confirm menopause by measuring levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen. FSH levels above 30 mIU/mL and estrogen below 20 pg/mL indicate menopause.
Now while menopause marks the end of fertility, it should not hamper one's vitality or quality of life. With healthy lifestyle choices and possible hormone therapy, many symptoms can be managed. Consider regular exercise, stress reduction techniques, vaginal moisturizers/lubricants, eating a nutrient-rich diet, practicing good sleep hygiene, and limiting caffeine/alcohol intake.
For severe hot flashes, night sweats, or vaginal atrophy, low-dose prescription hormones may provide relief by stabilizing hormones. But discuss options with your healthcare provider at Renew Wellness.
The duration of menopausal symptoms varies too. Some women struggle for years with difficult symptoms before finally reaching menopause. For others, the transition is much quicker.
So in summary, menopause signals the end of menstrual cycles and fertility. It involves hormonal changes that often spark unpleasant symptoms. But while a natural process, proactive self-care and medical support can certainly ease discomfort. With the right coping strategies, women can still live full, happy lives beyond the reproductive years!