Menopause

What happens during menopause?

The term “menopause” is often used to describe the changes that occur when the body begins to decrease its production of estrogen and progesterone. However, a woman is considered to be “in menopause” when she has not had a period for 12 consecutive months. The time leading up to menopause is called pre-menopause or perimenopause, and this is when bothersome symptoms are most likely to occur. Although estrogen and progesterone are most closely associated with the ability to have periods and become pregnant, they also play an influential role in many other functions, which is why symptoms during this time can be so varied.

What symptoms occur during menopause?

Women who are approaching menopause can experience very different symptoms, and some women have very few symptoms before their periods stop entirely. Common symptoms of menopause include:

• night sweats

• hot flashes

• insomnia

• irregular periods, including abnormally heavy periods

• vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse

• thinning hair on the head

• the growth of facial hair

• the decline in sexual desire

• urinary incontinence

 Symptoms can also change as hormone levels continue to decline.

What treatments are available for menopause?

Menopause is a natural occurrence, and so it cannot be “cured.” However, some treatments can make the symptoms of menopause much more bearable. Many women find their symptoms are very much improved with hormone replacement therapy or HRT. Other treatment options can be provided to address specific symptoms, like insomnia or vaginal dryness.