Menopause is a natural transition that all women go through as they age. The time leading up to menopause is known as perimenopause, when hormone levels begin to fluctuate and decline. This transition typically begins in a woman's 40s and lasts for several years until menstruation finally stops.
The declining estrogen and progesterone levels during perimenopause and menopause can lead women to experience various physical and emotional symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Hot flashes - Sudden feelings of intense body heat, flushing, and sweating. These uncomfortable symptoms can disrupt sleep and daily activities.
- Insomnia - Fluctuating hormones can cause sleep disturbances and insomnia. Lack of sleep can worsen other menopausal symptoms.
- Vaginal dryness - Lower estrogen levels lead to drier, thinner vaginal tissues. This can cause pain during sexual activity, increased urinary tract infections, and light bleeding.
- Mood changes - Irritability, anxiety, sadness, and mood swings are common. Difficulty concentrating and memory lapses may also occur.
- Fatigue - Exhaustion and low energy are frequently reported during menopause. Daily tasks can become more challenging.
- Aching muscles and joints - With aging, declining estrogen contributes to increased stiffness and joint pain for some women.
- Weight gain - Changes in hormone levels can slow down metabolism and cause redistribution of fat to the abdomen. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can help combat this.
- Hair loss or thinning - Fluctuating estrogen contributes to increased hair loss for some women during perimenopause and after menopause.
The duration and severity of symptoms varies significantly among women. While menopause marks the end of fertility, women go through this transition at different ages. The age range is typically between 45-55. However, perimenopause and onset of menopausal symptoms can begin in the 40s and even 30s for some. Premature or early menopause affects about 1% of women under age 40.
Coping with Symptoms and Supportive Care
The physical and emotional changes of menopause can significantly impact one's self-image, intimate relationships, professional life, and overall well-being. Here are some tips for coping:
- Maintain an active lifestyle with regular exercise and a healthy, balanced diet
- Reduce stress through yoga, meditation, or therapy
- Avoid triggers like caffeine, spicy food, alcohol
- Stay cool with light layers, fans, and air conditioning
- Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can ease discomfort
- Hormone therapy helps relieve severe symptoms
Most women transition through menopause without needing medical intervention. However, the services at Wellness Hormone Clinic can help support those with severe symptoms interfering with work, relationships, or quality of life. Our compassionate team of women's health experts provides customized hormone treatments, including:
- Estrogen therapy - Low-dose estrogen helps relieve hot flashes, insomnia, bone loss risks, and urogenital symptoms
- Progestogen - Helps protect uterine health for those with intact uterus
- Testosterone - May help some women improve sexual function and energy
- Compounded bioidentical hormones - Plant-derived and customized to match your hormone needs and preferences
We also provide nutritional counselling, fitness plans, stress reduction techniques, and community support groups. Contact us today to see if our menopause treatments and services are right for your situation.
