Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life when her periods stop permanently, and she can no longer become pregnant naturally. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. During perimenopause, hormone levels become irregular, but a woman can still get pregnant.
The average age for menopause is 51, but it can happen anytime between ages 45 and 55. The age varies widely between cultures and regions. Some signs of perimenopause include:
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood changes
- Trouble sleeping
What causes menopause?
Menopause happens because of changes in the ovaries. The ovaries make the major female hormones — estrogen and progesterone. Over time, the ovaries make less of these hormones. Very low levels of estrogen and progesterone cause menopause.
When does menopause start?
The perimenopause transition can begin several years before menopause. There is no way to predict when an individual woman will reach menopause. Blood and urine laboratory tests of hormone levels are sometimes done to confirm menopause.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Symptoms vary widely from woman to woman. Common symptoms include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness and pain with intercourse
- Urinary symptoms
- Emotional changes such as mood swings
- Trouble focusing and memory lapses
- Skin changes including dryness, thinning, and wrinkling
What are hot flashes?
A hot flash is a feeling described as suddenly being hot, with red, flushed skin that is warm to the touch. Hot flashes can come on quickly without warning. Sometimes hot flashes are followed by chills. Not all women going through menopause have hot flashes.
What are treatment options?
Lifestyle changes can help relieve menopausal signs and symptoms:
- Dress in layers so clothing can be removed at the start of a hot flash
- Use a portable fan when a hot flash strikes
- Do relaxation breathing at the start of the hot flash
There are also many medical treatments that can help relieve symptoms, including low-dose antidepressants, medications to help with sleep, vaginal estrogen, and hormonal therapy. Talk to a healthcare provider at Rejuvenate Clinic to explore the pros and cons of available options.