The term "menopause" comes from the Greek words "men" (month) and "pausis" (pause, stop). So menopause literally means the end of monthly menstrual periods. This usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 as a woman's ovaries stop producing eggs and her body produces less estrogen and progesterone.
The "meno" part refers to the cessation of menstruation. This marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and signals important changes in her body. Some key things to understand about this transition:
- It is a natural biological process that all women go through as they age. Not a disease or disorder.
- The transition to menopause usually lasts 4-5 years and has three stages: - Perimenopause - irregular periods and early menopause symptoms may start - Menopause - 12 months without a period marks the official point of menopause - Postmenopause - the years after menopause
- Changing hormone levels, especially the decline in estrogen, underlie many of the symptoms women experience. This affects the whole body.
- Symptoms vary but may include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep troubles, and slowed metabolism.
- Long-term health impacts include increased risks for osteoporosis and heart disease. Taking steps to promote bone, heart, and overall health is important.
- Treatment options are available to help manage symptoms, like hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, and other medications or supplements. The benefits and risks should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
So in summary, "meno" refers to the end of menstruation that defines this major transition period - menopause. It signals the end of fertility and involves fluctuating hormones that can produce challenging symptoms. With an understanding of what to expect and appropriate treatment, most women can pass through menopause transition smoothly.
At Hormone Harmony, we specialize in helping women navigate perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Our compassionate healthcare providers offer cutting-edge hormone therapy including bioidentical hormones, plus customized treatment plans to target your unique symptoms. We also provide nutritional counseling, fitness advice, and emotional support. Through routine testing and monitoring, we ensure your hormone levels are optimized for your best health and quality of life. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation. We're here to help you flourish through the menopause transition and beyond!
