Menopause is a normal change in a woman’s life. During menopause, a woman’s body slowly makes less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. The average age for menopause is 50 years old, however it can happen earlier or later. After menopause, a woman no longer has periods.
A woman has reached menopause when she has not had a period for 12 months in a row. There may be other reasons that a woman would not have her period, so check with your doctor to ensure you are in menopause. A simple blood test can tell for sure.
As you near menopause, you may have symptoms because of the changes your body is making. Many women wonder if these changes are normal and do not know how to treat your symptoms. Discuss treatment options with your doctor. He or she will help you make the best treatment choices.
What are some common symptoms as you approach menopause?
Changes in your monthly periods: The time between periods and the amount of “flow” may change.
Irregular bleeding or “spotting”: As mentioned above, some changes can happen with your period, however if you have not had a period in at least a year and you are having “spotting” you should call your doctor and schedule an appointment. Bleeding after menopause needs to be investigated to rule out serious problems such as cancer.
Hot flashes: Many women get hot or warm, mostly in the face, neck, and chest.
Night sweats: You may wake up sweaty, clammy, and sticky. This can interrupt your sleep and lead to feeling tired, stressed, or tense.
Vaginal changes: The vagina may become dry and thin. Sex and vaginal exams may be more uncomfortable. You may also become more likely to get vaginal infections.
Loss of bone mass: This is called Osteoporosis. Your bones can become thinner and more brittle. This can lead to loss of height and broken bones.
Mood changes: Some women become more irritable or depressed.
Urinary problems: Sometimes, women start to leak urine with activities such as sneezing, coughing, or laughing. If you notice this, schedule an appointment with your doctor.
Changes in sex drive: You may have less interest in sex and your sexual response may change.
Hair loss: Thinning or loss of hair can become a problem for some women.
What can you do to help with some of these symptoms?
Hot flashes: Avoid a hot environment. Hot or spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and stress can also bring on hot flashes. Dress in layers or keep a fan at home (or work) to help cool off when a hot flash hits. Regular exercise can also help bring relief.
Vaginal dryness: Check with your doctor to rule out serious skin conditions. Then, you may consider using an over-the-counter lubricant or prescription estrogen products designed for use in the vagina.
Problems sleeping: Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise (or other physical activity) every day. Avoid exercising close to bedtime. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and large meals right before bed. Keep your bedroom a comfortable temperature. Avoid napping during the day. Keep a schedule, getting up each morning and going to bed at night at the same time each day.
Mood swings: Try to get enough sleep and physical activity. Perform relaxation exercises. Consider a support group for women, this is a great way to meet other women who are going through the same things as you.
What problems can happen after menopause?
Osteoporosis: Every day, your body is busy breaking down old bone and replacing it with new, healthy bone. Estrogen helps your body maintain healthy bones. After menopause your level of estrogen drops, so your body is not able to keep your bones as strong. This can lead to bone loss, known as osteoporosis. This means that, over time, your bones become weak and can break easily.
Heart disease: Women you have entered menopause are more likely to get heart disease. It may be because of the changes in estrogen levels, but it can also be because of age.
