Facts About Menopause

Facts about menopause

Menopause indicates the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. It usually occurs about twelve months after your last menstrual period. Women often experience menopause around 40 or 50 years old. The average age women develop menopause is 51.

The signs and symptoms of menopause that women may experience in the months or years leading up to menopause include:

·       Hot flashes

·       Irregular periods

·       Thinning hair and dry skin

·       Loss of breast fullness

·       Weight gain and slowed metabolism

·       Night sweats

·       Sleep problems

·       Mood changes

·       Vaginal dryness

The causes of menopause include a natural reduction in reproductive hormones, having a hysterectomy, having chemotherapy and radiation therapy, or having a primary ovarian insufficiency.

Menopause requires no medical treatment. You can however relieve your symptoms and manage any related conditions. This can be done with:

·       Vaginal estrogen

·       Hormone therapy

·       Low-dose antidepressants

·       Medications to prevent osteoporosis

·       Treatment for hot flashes