Menopause is the post reproductive period in a woman's life when her ovaries stop producing the hormornes oestrogen and progesterone and menstruation becomes less frequent, eventually stopping altogether causing distress.Menopause is a natural event that normally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.
Once menopause is complete and you have not had a period for one year, you are no longer at risk of becoming pregnant.
The symptoms of menopause are caused by changes in the oestrogen and progesterone levels. The ovaries make less of these hormones over time. The specific symptoms vary from woman to woman.
A gradual decrease of oestrogen generally allows your body to slowly adjust to the hormonal changes. Hot flushes) and sweats are at their worst for the first 1 - 2 years after the last period. Menopause symptoms may last five or more years.
Oestrogen levels may drop suddenly after some medical treatment, as is seen in Chemotherapy and anti-oestrogen treatment for breast cancer. They may also drop after removal of the womb.
Symptoms can be more severe and start more suddenly in these circumstances.
As a result of the fall in hormone levels, changes occur in the entire female reproductive system. The vaginal walls become less elastic and thinner. The vagina becomes shorter. Lubricating secretions from the vagina become watery. The outside genital tissue thins. This is called atrophy of the labia.
In some women, menstrual flow comes to a sudden halt. More commonly, it slowly stops over time. During this time, the menstrual periods generally become irregular. This irregularity may last for one -three years before menstruation ends completely.
Common symptoms of
menopause include:
- Palpitations
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats
- Skin flushing
- Sleeping disturbances
Other symptoms of menopause may include:
- Decreased interest in sex, possibly decreased response to sexual stimulation
- Forgetfulness (in some women)
- Headaches
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Mood swings including irritability, depression and anxiety
- Urine leakage
- Vaginal dryness and painful sexual intercourse
- Vaginal infections
- Joint aches and pains
Treatment with hormones may be helpful if you have severe symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood issues or vaginal dryness.
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| The female reproductive system |
Discuss at length with your doctor the decision to take hormones, weighing the risks against possible benefits.
There are some medications available to help mood swings, hot flushes and other symptoms. These include low doses of antidepressants etc.
Lifestyle changes
The good news is that you can take many steps to reduce your symptoms without taking hormones and also reduce the risk of long-term problems such as osteoporosis and heart disease.
Entering smoothly into menopause
- Exercise regularly. It keeps the metabolism going and is often helpful with depression, anxiety, stress and weight gain. Weight bearing exercise will help to maintain a healthy bone calcium content and prevent osteoporosis.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits and essential fatty acids. Cold water fish are great sources of essential fatty acids: salmon, halibut, mackerel, sardines, tuna and herring. Essential fatty acids help to support the nervous system which may be important for memory and brain function. They are also anti-inflammatory and are very important for skin health. Include soy in your diet. It often helps with hot flushes and oestrogen regulation in your body.
Nuts and seeds can also be added to the diet for a source of fibre, protein, and essential fatty acids.
- Avoid unnecessary sources of sugar, alcohol and caffeine. Avoid smoking as it has been linked to more severe hot flushes and night sweats.
- If you show early signs of bone loss or have a strong family history of osteoporosis, talk to your doctor about medications that can help stop further weakening.
- Take calcium and
Vitamin D.
Remember that balance in the body is what helps to create health. Make sure to nurture your mind to keep it quick, your body to maintain physical health and your spirit and emotional life to keep you positive and happy. |
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