Menopause Support
and Information
Menopause, or the permanent cessation of a woman’s
monthly cycle in association with loss of ovarian
function, usually affects women between the ages
of 45 and 55. It is important to remember that menopause
is part of the normal life cycle for all women.
With this “change of life” usually comes
a newfound freedom from monthly periods and the
worry of pregnancy.
The transition to menopause varies from woman to
woman; sometimes it can be as short as a few months
to as long as ten years, but the average time is
a little less than 4 years. In early menopause a
woman’s cycle can become irregular, with flow
ranging from heavy to light and she may even miss
a period. During this transitional time, a woman
may still be able to become pregnant. Menopause
can be diagnosed in women in the following circumstances:
• Women with intact ovaries who have not
had a monthly cycle for a year or more (with no
other diagnostic cause)
• Women who have had their ovaries surgically
removed
• Women with a hysterectomy when hormonal
levels have decreased to menopausal levels
The symptoms of menopause can vary from woman
to woman, but are usually defined as “hot
flashes” “night sweats” and
vaginal dryness. Some women may also experience
mood swings, forgetfulness, or fatigue (usually
from the night sweats keeping them awake at night).
These symptoms usually disappear as the estrogen
and other hormone levels stay at a low level.
Some women choose to replace the estrogen that
is lacking during menopause to help relieve their
symptoms. If a woman has had her uterus removed
she can take estrogen by itself, but if she still
has an intact uterus she will usually take estrogen
combined with a form of another hormone called
progesterone.
Standard hormone replacement therapy is not initiated
to prevent cardiovascular disease or osteoporosis
associated with the menopausal years, although
these may be beneficial side effects. The only
intent is to relieve the core symptoms of menopause
(i.e. hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness).
There are a number of dietary supplement products
that are marketed as menopausal symptom treatment.
Many women have found these to be very beneficial,
but they are not regulated by the FDA for safety and
efficacy. Be sure to let your practitioner know
if you are taking any over-the-counter herbal
remedies.
We are here to assist you with your transition
through menopause and will do our best to help
you understand and ease your menopausal symptoms.
|
)
