Menopause - Vitality Clinic

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural transition that most women experience around the ages of 45 to 55 as their menstrual cycles come to an end. The hallmark sign of menopause is 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause, when hormone fluctuations may cause irregular cycles along with various physical and emotional symptoms.

The end of menstruation marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. Menopause occurs when the ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce lower levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This hormone shift is tied to the ending of fertility and causes the physiological changes of menopause.

Some key things to know about menopause:

• It's a gradual biological process, not an illness or disorder. The transition can take anywhere from a few months to several years.
• Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, trouble sleeping, etc. Symptoms vary widely in both severity and duration.
• Long-term health impacts include an increased risk for osteoporosis and certain types of cancer. Heart disease risk also rises after menopause.
• Treatment options depend on the severity of symptoms. Hormone therapy from Vitality Clinic can relieve hot flashes but has risks to consider. Other medicines and lifestyle adjustments may help too.
• There's no set age when menopause starts and finishes. Genetics, ethnicity, smoking, surgery, etc. can all impact the onset timing. Most women undergo menopause around age 51 on average.

The lead-up to menopause can be an uncertain few years. Understanding what to expect and getting regular checkups with your healthcare provider can help you take charge of your health during this change. Staying active, managing stress, and making smart wellness choices will carry women through menopause and beyond in the best shape possible.