Menopause 101

Menopause is a normal condition that occurs as a woman ages. Women are born with a finite number of eggs in their ovaries. When the last egg is released, menstruation stops and menopause has begun. Technically, menopause is diagnosed after a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months.

The transition into menopause typically begins between the ages of 45 and 55. It tends to last around 7 years, though it can last twice that long in some cases. The process of moving into and beyond menopause is broken down into three phases:

• Perimenopause. This phase begins a number of years before actual menopause, as the production of estrogen (a group of hormones responsible for female characteristics of the body) decreases.
• Menopause. At this point, the ovaries are no longer releasing eggs and very little estrogen is being produced.
• Postmenopause. In this phase, the symptoms of menopause fade, but health risks associated with the lack of estrogen increase.

Menopause Symptoms

As menopause approaches and occurs, there are a number of common symptoms, including:

• Irregular or skipped menstrual periods
• Fatigue
• Hot flashes
• Headaches
• Depression
• Irritability
• Muscle pain and joint aches
• Changes in sex drive
• Vaginal dryness
• Bladder control problems

Each woman’s experience of menopause is different, so not all women will have all of these symptoms.

In postmenopause, the hormonal and other changes in a woman’s body increase the risk for:

• Heart disease
• Osteoporosis
• Bladder and bowel problems
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Decreased muscle strength and tone
• Poor skin elasticity and increased wrinkling

Menopause Treatment

The symptoms of menopause and postmenopause can be addressed with a number of treatments, including:

• Lifestyle changes focused on a healthy diet (which may include supplements with calcium and vitamin D), elimination of cigarettes and alcohol, and regular weight-bearing exercise
• Hormone replacement therapy that may include estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone
• Medications such as antidepressants
• Ongoing general health screenings such as pelvic exams with PAP smear, breast exam and mammography, X-ray assessment for osteoporosis and blood tests to monitor lipid levels and thyroid function

Perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause pose a number of health challenges for women. However, your doctor can provide the information, assessment, and treatment needed to minimize symptoms and maximize wellness.