Menopause is a natural biological process that all women experience as they reach middle age. It signals the end of a woman's reproductive years and is defined as occurring 12 months after a woman's last menstrual period. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause, when hormone levels begin fluctuating and periods may become irregular.
The average age for menopause is 51, but it can happen anytime between ages 40-58. The age at which you experience menopause is largely genetic. Symptoms associated with menopause may include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, trouble sleeping, and thinning hair. While menopause signals the end of fertility, it should not be viewed as just the end of womanhood.
Here are some key things for women to understand about this natural transition:
- Menopause occurs because the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone. Without these hormones, you can no longer get pregnant. But menopause is not an illness that needs to be cured.
- The changes leading up to menopause can begin 8-10 years before your last period. This perimenopausal transition brings shifting hormone levels that may cause symptoms like PMS and irregular cycles.
- Vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats are the most common complaint. These can disrupt sleep and daily activities. Lifestyle changes like layered clothing, exercise, and stress relief can help.
- Vaginal dryness happens due to lower estrogen levels. This can make sex painful but is treatable with lubricants or local estrogen therapy. Maintaining intimacy with your partner through menopause is important.
- You may be at higher risk for osteoporosis and heart disease after menopause. Eating healthy, exercising, not smoking, and taking calcium supplements can help protect your bones and heart.
- Mood changes may occur due to shifting hormones. From anxiety and irritability to depression, be aware of any changes in your emotional state and seek support if needed.
- Body changes are normal with natural aging. Self-care, a healthy lifestyle, and a good social support system can help you embrace this transition gracefully.
The providers at Hormone Harmony are experts at guiding women through perimenopause and menopause. We offer comprehensive testing to identify any hormonal imbalances contributing to symptoms. Based on your lab results, we can provide bioidentical hormone therapy, vitamins, or other treatments to help relieve symptoms and optimize wellbeing during this transition. Our compassionate team is here to listen and provide the latest evidence-based solutions. Take charge of your menopausal journey - call today to schedule a consultation!