Understand the menopause transition
The human body is capable of various amazing feats, but many will attest that the ability of women to nurture and grow what will become another person is the body's most impressive characteristic.
Healthline states a woman can get pregnant and bear children from puberty, when they start getting their menstrual periods, to menopause. The average woman's reproductive years are between ages 12 and 51. While puberty and pregnancy are topics widely discussed in a woman's life, the same may not be said for menopause.
What is menopause?
The World Health Organization characterizes menopause as the end of a woman's reproductive years. After true menopause, a woman cannot become pregnant naturally. Menopause is marked by the end of a monthly menstrual cycle often referred to as a "period." Natural menopause is deemed to have occurred after 12 consecutive months without menstruation. Menopause can occur for other reasons, such as if the reproductive organs are damaged due to illness or removed for the treatment of a certain condition. This is called induced menopause.
What happens during menopause?
During menopause, the ovaries stop producing reproductive hormones and stop releasing eggs for fertilization, says the Cleveland Clinic.
What is perimenopause?
Some people incorrectly describe the years leading up to the last menstrual period as menopause. However, menopause only occurs after the last period has occurred. It is a finite date. The menopausal transition before that takes place is actually called perimenopuase. It is a period of time that most often begins between ages 45 and 55. The National Institute on Aging says perimenopause traditionally lasts seven years, but it can go on for as long as 14 years. The duration may depend on lifestyle factors, race and ethnicity.
During perimenopause, production of estrogen and progesterone made in the ovaries varies greatly. That can mean menstruation can be heavy at times or light. It may occur once a month or even multiple times per month. The menopausal transition affects each woman differently. It is a good idea for women to use a menstruation tracker and remain aware of symptoms to discuss with the gynecologist.
What is postmenopause?
Postmenopause is the time after menopause has happened. Women will remain in postmenopause for the rest of their lives. While many symptoms ease up in postmenopause, there still may be mild symptoms attributed to the low levels of reproductive hormones.
What are common symptoms of the menopause transition?
As one transitions from childbearing years into postmenopause, certain symptoms can occur.
· Irregular periods
· Hot flashes/night sweats
· Vaginal dryness
· Urinary urgency
· Difficulty sleeping
· Emotional changes
· Dry skin, eyes or mouth
· Worsening premenstrual syndrome symptoms
· Breast tenderness
· Headaches
· Racing heart
· Joint and muscle aches
· Weight gain
· Trouble concentrating
· Changes in libido
Women are urged to discuss their symptoms and concerns about menopause with a health care professional. Various treatments can alleviate symptoms and make the transition more comfortable.