Understanding Menopause: Hormonal Changes and Symptoms Explained
Menopause marks a significant stage in a woman's life, signalling the end of menstrual periods and the cessation of fertility. But what exactly happens to hormones during menopause, and what are the symptoms associated with this transition? In this detailed guide, we'll delve into the hormonal changes that occur during menopause and explore the common symptoms women may experience.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is the stage in a woman's life when she permanently stops having menstrual periods. Healthcare providers often use the term "perimenopause" to refer to the period when a woman's hormone levels start to change, which typically occurs before menstrual periods cease entirely. Menopause is considered complete when menstrual periods have been absent for one continuous year.
When Does Menopause Occur?
While the average age of menopause is around 51, it can happen any time from the 30s to the mid-50s or later. Various factors, such as smoking, weight, and genetic predisposition, can influence the timing of menopause. Additionally, menopause can occur prematurely due to factors such as ovarian failure, surgical removal of the ovaries, or pelvic radiation.
While the average age of menopause is around 51, it can happen any time from the 30s to the mid-50s or later
Hormonal Changes During Menopause
During menopause, hormonal changes play a significant role in causing symptoms and physical changes. As women transition through perimenopause, the phase leading up to menopause, the supply of mature eggs in the ovaries diminishes, and ovulation becomes irregular. At the same time, the production of oestrogen and progesterone, two key female hormones, decreases.
What are the various phases of the menopausal transition?
The menopausal transition comprises three distinct stages, each of which can have an impact on oestrogen and progesterone:
Perimenopause
Menopause
Postmenopause
The onset of the menopausal transition typically occurs during a woman's mid-to-late 40s, known as perimenopause. However, it's essential to note that some women may experience this transition earlier or later. The average age for menopause onset is around 50-51. Approximately 5% of women undergo early menopause between the ages of 40 and 45, with 1% experiencing it before the age of 40, termed as Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI).
Symptoms of Menopause
Menopausal symptoms can vary widely among women, with some experiencing mild symptoms and others facing more severe and frequent manifestations. Common symptoms of menopause include:
Hot Flashes: Sudden, brief increases in body temperature, often accompanied by sweating and heart palpitations.
Sleep Disturbance: Sleep quality can deteriorate and some women can have difficulty getting deep restful sleep and have difficulty staying asleep throughout the night.
Vaginal Atrophy: Thinning and drying of vaginal tissues, leading to discomfort during intercourse and increased risk of infections.
Pelvic Muscle Relaxation: Weakening of pelvic muscles, which can result in urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
Cardiac Effects: Intermittent dizziness, palpitations, and abnormal sensations in the chest.
Hair Changes: Some women may experience changes in hair growth, such as increased facial hair or thinning of scalp hair.
Mental Health: Menopause can impact mood and emotional well-being.
Coping with Menopausal Symptoms
Managing menopausal symptoms often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, and other treatment options. Hormone therapy, which involves the use of oestrogen and, if necessary, progesterone, can help alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. However, the decision to undergo hormone therapy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, considering individual health status and risk factors.
Treatment Options for Menopause
Non Medical Treatments such as diet, exercise, not smoking, not drinking alcohol and meditation can help to improve symptoms of menopause quite effectively for many women.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment which involves the administration of Oestrogen and, if needed, progestin, to replenish hormone levels in menopausal women. Oestrogen plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including regulating body temperature, maintaining bone density, and supporting vaginal health. Progestin is often prescribed alongside Oestrogen to protect the uterine lining in women who have not undergone a hysterectomy. We outline a broader summary of potential benefits of TRT in our article here.
In addition to hormone therapy, other treatment options for menopause include non-hormonal medications and alternative therapies. Some antidepressant medications such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) can help with vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes.
Conclusion
Menopause is a natural stage in a woman's life, marked by hormonal changes and a range of physical and emotional symptoms. By understanding the hormonal shifts that occur during menopause and exploring available treatment options, women can effectively manage symptoms and maintain their overall well-being during this transition. If you're experiencing menopausal symptoms, consult with a healthcare provider like The Functional Doctors to explore personalised treatment strategies tailored to your needs and preferences.
If you're over 45 years of age and you are seeking professional guidance to manage your peri/menopausal symptoms, look no further. Schedule a Telehealth consultation with our expert team at The Functional Doctors using the link below
While we've ensured that everything you read on our blogs is medically reviewed and approved, the information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should never rely on this blog for specific medical advice, and if you have any questions or concerns specific to your personal case, you should speak to your doctor or reach out to our team directly.
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