Menopause is a natural part of aging, but its symptoms can interfere with a woman’s quality of life. At WMCHealth, our gynecologists understand how difficult menopause can be, and our specialists provide advanced treatment for menopause symptoms. You can find relief from menopause symptoms at a WMCHealth location close to home.
What Is Menopause?
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the permanent end of your menstrual cycle. It usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. You have reached menopause if you have not had a period for 12 consecutive months.
Symptoms of Menopause
Symptoms of menopause vary from woman to woman. They can last five years or more. One of the first things you may notice is irregular periods. They may be unpredictable for a few years before they stop completely. Other symptoms may include:
- Hot flashes
- Headaches
- Skin flushing
- Night sweats
- Mood swings
- Forgetfulness
- Vaginal dryness
- Vaginal infections
- Decreased interest in sex
- Racing heart or palpitations
- Sleep disturbances such as insomnia
Symptoms may be worse for some women compared to others. If you are experiencing menopause due to a surgical procedure such as a removal of the ovaries, symptoms may be more severe and may begin abruptly.
Stages of Menopause
Menopause is often used as an overarching term, but it is a gradual process and occurs in three stages.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause typically begins in your 40s. It can last for eight to 10 years before you reach menopause. During the last couple of years of perimenopause, you may begin to experience menopause symptoms, but if you still have your period, you can still become pregnant.
Menopause
When you no longer have a menstrual cycle for 12 months in a row, you are in menopause. Your ovaries no longer release eggs, and your body has ceased producing most of its estrogen.
Post-menopause
The time after your period has completely ceased is called post-menopause. Your menopause symptoms may get better; however, some may experience them for a decade-plus after the menopause transition has occurred. Due to a lower estrogen level, women in this phase are at increased risk for specific health problems. WMCHealth is dedicated to helping women in this stage of life prevent conditions and keep healthy.
What Causes Menopause?
Generally, menopause occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop releasing eggs, causing the body to produce less hormones. Some outside factors can also cause menopause, including:
- Surgical removal of the ovaries
- Cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation
- Primary ovarian insufficiency, a rare condition in which the ovaries fail to produce normal hormone levels
Treatment for Menopause Symptoms
Menopause is a natural process, but for some women, symptoms are severe and disruptive to their daily lives. While exercising, changes in diet and taking steps to avoid hot flash triggers can help, some women can benefit from additional treatment. The gynecologists at WMCHealth are experts in menopause treatments such as hormone therapy and prescription medications. You do not have to suffer from menopause symptoms—we can help you find relief.