Menopause is a natural biological process that all women go through as they age. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. The average age for menopause is 51, but it can happen anytime between the ages of 45-55.
The lead up to menopause is called perimenopause. This stage can begin up to 10 years before menopause actually happens. During perimenopause, hormone levels start to fluctuate and decline. This leads to symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, and mood swings.
When a woman has gone 12 full months without a period, she has officially reached menopause. At this point, her ovaries stop releasing eggs and her body produces much less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Some key things to know about menopause:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Hot Flashes | Sudden feelings of heat, usually in the face, neck, and chest |
| Vaginal Dryness | Thinning and drying of the vaginal walls due to low estrogen levels |
| Trouble Sleeping | Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night |
| Mood Swings | Sudden changes in mood, such as feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed |
| Urinary Symptoms | Increased frequency or urgency to urinate, or leaking of urine |
Long term health risks associated with menopause include:
| Health Risk | Description |
|---|---|
| Osteoporosis | Weakening of the bones due to decreased bone density |
| Heart Disease | Increased risk of heart attack and stroke due to changes in cholesterol levels |
Treatment for menopause focuses on managing symptoms. Options may include:
The experienced clinicians at Balance Clinic understand the challenges of perimenopause and menopause. We provide individualized care including bioidentical hormone therapy, supplements, prescription medications, and lifestyle counseling. Our compassionate team helps women transition through "the change" gracefully and comfortably.
Conclusion
Menopause is a significant transition in a woman's life, marking the end of her reproductive years. While it can bring uncomfortable symptoms and increased health risks, there are many treatment options available to help manage these challenges. By working with a knowledgeable healthcare provider, such as those at Balance Clinic, women can navigate this stage of life with confidence and grace, optimizing their health and well-being along the way.