The terms menopause and perimenopause are used interchangeably, but in general, they describe the physical, emotional, and psychological effects that a woman experiences during the process of menopause. Menopause is defined as the time after a woman has not had her period for twelve months. Although menopause is a normal and natural process, for some, it can be a very emotional and destabilizing experience.
As women navigate this new change, sometimes the experience of menopause itself can leave women with severe symptoms that interfere with their day-to-day lives. Because the picture of menopause is not always clear until you’re fully immersed in it, it is helpful to approach menopause with an openness to seek help and advice when needed.
What Exactly Happens During Menopause and Perimenopause?
As women enter their late thirties, the ovaries produce less estrogen and progesterone (the hormones that regulate menstruation). This lack of estrogen leads to a decline in fertility and may result in early symptoms of perimenopause.
By forty, women may notice periods becoming more erratic and less frequent. Periods that used to arrive like clockwork have become a little less predictable. During your forties, it is very likely that you have started to feel the full effects of peri-menopause and are experiencing one or more of the following:
Symptoms of Menopause
- Hot flashes
- Trouble sleeping
- Changes in libido
- Irritability and/or mood changes
- Pain during sex (vaginal dryness)
- Vaginal and urinary problems
- Depression
- Weight gain and slowed metabolism
- Night sweats
All women will have their own unique perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. The important thing to do is pay attention to how the symptoms impact you and your quality of life.
Heading towards your fifties and beyond, the ovaries will eventually stop releasing eggs by this stage, and periods will stop altogether. This is officially menopause.
When Should You See Your Doctor?
If the symptoms mentioned above interfere with your quality of life or interrupt your day-to-day activities, then make an appointment to see your doctor. They may be able to prescribe specific treatments to help manage your symptoms and alleviate pain and discomfort. Your doctor can also provide additional guidance or counseling on other aspects of your health that may be affected
by menopause.
Managing Menopause
Any management choices that are undertaken will be tailored to your own specific needs and personal medical history. Doctors may prescribe one or more of the following:
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – HRT works by artificially replacing the hormones estrogen and progesterone. By mimicking their actions, HRT helps to mask their decline, helping your body react less dramatically to the natural loss of estrogen.
- Vaginal Creams and Lubricants – Used specifically for vaginal dryness.
- Low-Dose Antidepressants – For hot flashes, certain antidepressants may decrease their occurrence.
- Clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay) – A pill or patch typically used to treat high blood pressure might provide some relief from hot flashes.
- Natural Supplements – There is limited evidence that some natural supplements, such as soy and Vitamin E, may help with symptoms. However, speak to your doctor first before starting any new supplements.
Additionally, some women find that looking at other holistic treatments for menopause may help. For example, working with a sleep specialist, practicing mindfulness and meditation, trying acupuncture, or using yoga are all things that may provide an element of relief.
Managing the symptoms of menopause may involve a combined approach where several options are used alongside one another.
Staying Healthy After Menopause
Post-menopausal women are more vulnerable to certain medical conditions like heart disease and osteoporosis. To help combat this, it is recommended that all women (regardless of age) continue to
follow the basic rules of good health, such as:
- Healthy Diet – Make sure you consume a healthy diet rich in all the vitamins and minerals needed for healthy bones.
- Exercise – Keep active by engaging in low-impact exercises such as walking, aerobics, and yoga.
- Well-Woman Exams – Attend routine well-woman exams to ensure that you’re getting regular checkups and health screenings.
- Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake.
Outlook
As with any major life change, going through menopause can leave some women feeling a little unbalanced and unsure about what to expect. The symptoms of menopause are unpredictable and can last from a few months to years. Wherever you are in the process, it is always helpful to seek advice. Your doctor can assist with guidance and management options to help you navigate the trickier aspects of health when it comes to menopause.
