Menopause - Restore Health Clinic

Menopause

Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life when her periods stop permanently, and she can no longer get pregnant naturally. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. During perimenopause, hormone levels rise and fall unevenly, and women may experience symptoms like hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and mood changes.

The average age for menopause is 51, but it can happen anywhere between 40-55 years old. Every woman's experience is different. Here are some key things to know:

• Causes: Menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This signals the end of a woman's reproductive years. It is a natural part of aging.
• Symptoms: Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, urinary issues, and emotional changes like mood swings. Symptoms vary in type and severity between women.
• Treatment: While menopause is irreversible, certain therapies can help relieve symptoms. Lifestyle changes like avoiding triggers, managing stress, and dressing in layers can help. Hormone therapy with low doses of estrogen and progesterone helps some women manage hot flashes and other symptoms.
• Long-term health impacts: Lower estrogen after menopause raises a woman's risk for health conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease. Staying active, not smoking, eating healthy, and continuing cancer screenings help protect long-term health.

The menopause transition can last 4-8 years. It's important for women to understand what's happening in their bodies and have open conversations with their healthcare providers. Recognizing symptoms and identifying personalized treatment options promote physical and emotional well-being on the journey beyond reproduction.

With an attitude of self-care and support from loved ones, women can thrive through perimenopause and into the liberating years beyond! This natural transition may bring changes and discomforts, but it ushers in a new phase of life, ripe with possibility.