Menopause is a life stage ubiquitous to every woman. It has been attached fear, speculations, and false information. Hence, women and their loved ones enter this phase blindsided and are aware of what to expect.The transition comes with some symptoms in some women. The symptoms, which could be severe, leaves women and their loved ones in a limbo.
You know what’s powerful? Information. Hence it's crucial to have a complete understanding of this stage of life instead of relying on myths and generalizations which; in most cases, turns out to be false.
Here’s the good news: By the time you’re done reading this piece, you would have gotten all the information you need in the palms of your hands ЁЯШБ
Let's jump right into it.
What is menopause?
Menopause is a point in the life of a woman, when her menstrual cycle has ceased for 12 months. The period leading up to this time, is referred to as perimenopause and is characterized by changes in menstrual cycle, and many more. Perimenopause can start 8 to 10 before menopause. The period after menopause is known as post menopause. Women in this stage are required to pay maximum attention to their health: what they eat, habits, activities they engage in, etc. this is because they are vulnerable to heart disease and osteoporosis. It's crucial to increase calcium intake at this point.
What are the causes of menopause?
The onset of menopause could be triggered naturally or otherwise. Naturally, it is a sign of aging that is stimulated by the ovaries’ inability to produce oestrogen. Hence, the menstrual cycle becomes irregular and progressively ceases. The hormonal imbalance, of not just oestrogen, results in the various physical symptoms. In other cases, hysterectomy or removal of the ovaries might lead to menopause if the hormones are not taken properly. Overactive thyroid gland can also be implicated as a possible cause.
At What age does menopause begin?
45-51 years marks the onset of menopause on an average. Before this period, perimenopausal symptoms would have started manifesting 8 to 10 years earlier. The natural time for the onset of menopause, may be affected by other medical conditions, smoking, alcohol intake, and treatment regimens such as chemotherapy. This is due to their influence on the deterioration of the ovaries.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
The symptoms vary in severity amongst different women. However, the common symptoms include:
- Irregular periods
- Vaginal dryness
- Hot flashes
- Chills
- Night sweats
- Sleep problems
- Mood changes and depression
- Weight gain and slowed metabolism
- Thinning hair and dry skin
- Irritability
- Loss of breast fullness
Some of these symptoms may be as a result of other factors such as medical conditions, treatment regimens, etc. How can these other factors be ruled out?
Here is the answer:
How is menopause diagnosed? If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should visit your doctor. Your age, the symptoms, underlying health conditions, and family history will be considered before making a final diagnosis. In some cases, your doctor may suggest a blood test to further confirm what it really is.
Can menopause be treated?
First of all, menopause is not a disease condition. However, to relieve the symptoms, your doctor may prescribe hormone therapy to treat the hormonal imbalance. However, it’s not advisable to resort to self treatment because it might be wrong to use hormone therapy due to some medical conditions. Hormone therapy has some side effects too.
It can be controlled by implementing some lifestyle changes. They include:
- Weight loss
- Exercise
- Avoid smoking
- Eat healthily and incorporate vitamin supplements
- Keep room temperature at moderate levels
- Avoid foods that exacerbate symptoms
- It’s also advised to consult a therapist due to the mood swings, irritability, and depression.
CMenopause is simply a period in life: it shouldn’t be approached with fear but instead, embrace the freedom that comes with it. Your doctor should be consulted every step of the way.
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