What is Menopause?
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, either naturally or through medical intervention. Natural menopause is defined as going 12 months without a period, while induced menopause occurs when both ovaries are surgically removed or after chemotherapy. Induced menopause can cause a sudden drop in hormone levels, leading to more severe symptoms than natural menopause. It’s important to discuss this with a healthcare provider, especially if ovary removal isn’t medically necessary. On average, natural menopause happens around age 51 in Western societies. If it occurs before age 40, it’s considered premature menopause, affecting about 1% of women.
What Causes Menopause?
Menopause is primarily caused by a decrease in estrogen and other hormonal changes. Women are born with a finite number of follicles, ranging from 1 to 2 million, and this number decreases over time. By the time menopause hits, only a few hundred to a few thousand follicles are left. The body compensates by producing more hormones like Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) to stimulate the ovaries. This hormonal activity can cause symptoms associated with perimenopause.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, characterized by fluctuating hormone levels and ending with the last menstrual period. Symptoms during this time can include heavy or irregular periods, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and insomnia. These symptoms can cause irritability and even depression in some women.
Symptoms of Menopause and Perimenopause
Menopause symptoms can vary widely in type and severity. The most commonly discussed symptom is the hot flash, which can range from a mild warmth to intense heat that disrupts daily activities. Hot flashes often affect the head, neck, and chest, accompanied by heart palpitations and sweating. They can be more frequent and severe at night, disrupting sleep. These symptoms can last from a few seconds to several minutes and may continue for years. The exact cause of hot flashes isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed that lower estrogen levels confuse the hypothalamus, triggering the body’s cooling mechanisms. Other symptoms include vaginal dryness, insomnia, and urinary incontinence, which are also part of the aging process.
What Can I Do to Alleviate the Symptoms?
There are many ways to manage menopause symptoms, and ongoing research continues to provide new insights. Here are some practical steps you can take:
1. Lifestyle Changes: Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods; exercise regularly; manage stress; and wear layers that can be easily removed during hot flashes.
2. Dietary Supplements: Some over-the-counter supplements might help, but always consult your healthcare provider first. Evening Primrose Oil, Black Cohosh extract, and flaxseed are popular options. However, be cautious with supplements, especially if you have liver problems or a history of estrogen-positive cancers.
3. Vitamins: Vitamin D and Calcium are essential for preventing osteoporosis.
Every woman will experience menopause differently, and the best approach is to work with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan. Don’t hesitate to seek help as soon as symptoms start or your periods become irregular. Proper treatment can prevent other health issues and improve your quality of life.
