What Is Menopause? An In-Depth Look Into Menopause Symptoms and Treatment
Short-term memory loss, mood swings, and hot flashes are the complaints that you will hear from most women in midlife. Most of the time, these changes are attributed to the onset of menopause. Menopause for most women will come, and they will brave the storm.
For others, the menopause journey never seems to end, and the journey is not pleasant either. It’s true, though; menopause is not a destination but a journey.
Typically, expect menopause to start between the age of 45 and 55. But, this is not cast on stone. Menopause can start before 40 and after 55 years.
Even though the symptoms of menopause are unbearable at times, many women do not need treatment. However, if the symptoms bother you, then you can seek menopause treatment in Beverly Hills.
Menopause, In a Nutshell
Menopause in a woman’s life usually symbolizes a transition into a new phase of life. Just as womanhood is ushered in by periods during adolescence, menopause marks the end of a woman’s child-bearing stage.
Contrary to popular belief, menopause is not a disease or a health problem; in fact, some women view it as liberation. However, some women may experience menopause at an earlier time, making it somewhat a health issue.
Medically, menopause can be defined as when you haven’t menstruated in twelve consecutive months and can’t get pregnant naturally.
Typically, menopause begins with varying menstrual cycle length, and the end is marked by the final menstrual period.
Menopause represents the time when the ovaries (female gonad responsible for producing eggs) cease to function, that’s why you cannot get pregnant after menopause.
The ovaries are also the primary source of hormones in women and are responsible for controlling the development of the female body characteristics such as body shape, hair, and breasts. The hormones also regulate pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, and protects the bones.
Menopause can start as early as the 30s and as late as 60s, and can last for several years. Three stages characterize it:
- Perimenopause. A transitional period that starts before menopause and the 12 months that follow your last period. It is characterized by irregular periods.
- Menopause. It starts 12 months after your last period or when your period stops because of a clinical reason, e.g., removing your ovaries.
- Postmenopause. This refers to the years after menopause. Although it is difficult for you to know when menopause has finished, and postmenopause has started.
Signs and Symptoms of Menopause
It is vital for you to bear in mind that every woman’s experience will be unique. Some women will experience very few or no symptoms. Then some women will experience physical and psychological symptoms. Here are the symptoms associated with menopause:
- Less frequent menstruation
- Lighter or heavier periods than what you usually experience
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats
- Flushing
- Vaginal dryness
- Insomnia
- Weight gain
- Anxiety
- Memory problems
- Dry skin, eyes, and mouth
- Difficulty concentrating
- Depression
- Reduced sex drive or libido
- Painful or stiff joints
- Hair thinning or loss
- Reduced bone mass
- Increased hair growth on other areas of the body such as chest, face, neck and upper back
- Headaches
- Racing heart
- Tender or sore breasts
- Less full breasts
Treatment of Menopause
Contrary to what some people may think, menopause requires no treatment. Menopause treatment in Beverly Hills is used to alleviate the symptoms and to manage or prevent the chronic conditions that come with aging.
Expect any of the following treatments:
- Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy was formerly known as hormone replacement therapy. It is a treatment that consists of a combination of progesterone (progestin) and estrogens or estrogens only.
This treatment is appropriate for dealing with the symptoms related to a decline in estrogen levels, such as vaginal dryness and hot flushes.
If you still have a uterus, you will need to us progestin with estrogen. Estrogen also aids in preventing bone loss, although you will need to discuss with our doctor about the benefits and risks of using hormone therapy.
- Vaginal Estrogen
This treatment is used to relieve vaginal dryness. It is administered directly to the vagina in the form of a cream, tablet, or ring. Estrogen is released in small doses, which is absorbed by the vaginal tissues.
- Low-Dose Antidepressants
Certain antidepressants can be used in the management of hot flushes. Others might use these drugs to help with mood changes.
- Medications to Treat and Prevent Osteoporosis
Depending on your needs, our doctor may recommend medication that will help reduce bone loss and the risk of bone fractures. Our doctor may also prescribe vitamin D supplements to strengthen your bones.
If you have any questions concerning menopause, contact us at Youplushealth, and we would love to answer all your questions.