Menopause

Answers to Questions about Menopause

What is menopause?

Menopause is technically defined as the point when menstrual periods have stopped for a full year. Natural menopause occurs in most women between the ages of 45 and 55, with 51 the average age. The transition that ends with menopause actually begins several years earlier. Perimenopause starts around age 35, when the ovaries produce fewer hormones. At menopause, a woman’s ovaries stop producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

What are the early signs of menopause?

Prior to menopause, you may notice changes in your menstrual cycle, which may be caused by decreased estrogen levels. These changes are an early sign of approaching menopause. You may skip one or two periods or your flow may be lighter or heavier. The duration of your period may be shorter or longer than usual. Although periods tend to be irregular around the time of menopause, abnormal bleeding can be a sign of a problem in the uterus or its lining and should be discussed with your doctor.

What bodily changes are caused by menopause?

1. Hot flashes are common. A hot flash is a sudden heat that spreads over the upper body. The skin may flush or break out in a sweat. Flashes can come at any time, but they don’t last long. At night, they may disrupt sleep. Some women have hot flashes for a few months, some for a few years, and some not at all.

Changes in the vagina also may occur as a result of estrogen loss. The vagina may be drier, and some women may have vaginal burning and itching. The urethra – the tube that carries urine from the bladder – can become inflamed or irritated. (Painful urination also can be a sign of urinary tract infection.)

1. Bone loss increases after menopause. Bone thinning can lead to osteoporosis. It increases the risk of fractures, particularly the hip, wrist and spinal bones, in older women.
2. Heart and blood vessel diseases are more likely after menopause. A woman’s risk of heart disease and stroke increases as she ages.

Will I experience emotional changes?

Some women go through menopause without any emotional changes and even feel a sense of freedom from unwanted pregnancy and periods. Others may be nervous, irritable, tired and mildly depressed. These symptoms may be linked to hormonal changes or to other factors such as lack of sleep and stress.