Menopause and Perimenopause
When does it happen?
Menopause symptoms occur at the end of the body’s menstrual cycles, usually when women reach their 40s or 50s; perimenopause begins a few years before menopause. Some women may experience menopause as late as their 60s. The average age in the US is 51 and the most common reason is the natural biological decline of reproductive hormones. Menopausal age varies and procedures such as chemotherapy and/or radiation, hysterectomy, or primary ovarian insufficiency can lead to early menopause.
Perimenopause Symptoms
Experiencing the following, additionally to irregular periods, alerts you that your body is in perimenopause:
- Vaginal dryness and irritation
- Hot flashes and chills
- Night sweats
- Problems sleeping
- Mood changes
- Slowed metabolism and weight gain
- Thinning hair and dry skin
- Loss of breast fullness
- Thin bones
Period irregularity does not guarantee you are in menopause, so until you are sure do not stop using contraceptive methods. Your ovaries are still producing eggs, even though your hormone levels are changing.
Menopause
Leading up to menopause, you will experience changes in menstruation, with period irregularity that includes either heavier periods or periods that skip for a month or more than return regularly for a few months. Once you have gone 12 months without menstruating, your body has gone into menopause.
Treatment
There are different types of treatment available to ease menopausal symptoms.
Menopause hormone therapy (MHT) is one of the most common treatments, though it is not safe for all women. You should always consult your healthcare provider, and avoid MHT if:
- You think you are pregnant
- You have had certain types of cancer, blood clots, a stroke or heart attack
- You have liver disease or problems with vaginal bleeding
Non-hormone treatments approved by the FDA are also an option, especially when it comes to easing the symptoms of severe hot flashes and pain with sexual activity (dyspareunia).
Natural methods such as dietary supplements or over-the-counter natural hormone creams may be used to alleviate some menopausal symptoms.
Every treatment method has advantages and disadvantages, and there is no one-fits-all solution to dealing with menopause. Always consult your healthcare provider before pursuing treatment and be knowledgeable about potential risks.
After Menopause
Some of the symptoms may continue after menopause, such as vaginal dryness and changes in sex drive; seek methods that will help you protect your heart and prevent bone loss. Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding should not occur, and if it does it may be a sign of a medical issue that requires urgent attention.