The stage marking the end of the reproduction process in women is known as menopause. A woman's menstrual cycle stops permanently, and she can no longer conceive. Menopause can be diagnosed when a woman has not had her menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. It occurs naturally or is triggered by surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Menopause is a natural process, but it can lead to many issues for women. One in every three women experiences physical and mental health issues related to menopause.

Symptoms of Menopause in Women

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are the most common issue faced by women during menopause. A sudden feeling of warmth, sweating, and an increased heartbeat is common during hot flashes. Hot flashes can last from a few seconds to several minutes. They may occur multiple times throughout the day and night.

Wear light clothing to deal with hot flashes. Keep your environment cool. Avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol will also be helpful. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) helps reduce hot flashes.

Vaginal Dryness

Due to a decrease in oestrogen levels, vaginal tissues can become thinner, drier, and less elastic. This can result in vaginal dryness, itching, and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Vaginal dryness can be treated using a water-based lubricant during sexual activity. Regular sexual activity can help maintain vaginal health. In some cases, vaginal oestrogen therapy may be recommended to help alleviate symptoms.

Mood Changes

Mood changes during menopause are in the form of irritability, anxiety, and depression. These changes are due to changing hormone levels and the emotional impact of menopause.

Yoga and meditation can help deal with mood changes. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also help improve mood. Antidepressants or other medications may be recommended to alleviate symptoms.

Disturbed Sleep

Many women experience disturbances in sleep during menopause, including insomnia and frequent waking. To deal with sleep disturbances, you should practise good sleep hygiene. To ensure good sleep hygiene, the following is recommended:

keeping a proper sleep schedule
avoiding alcohol and caffeine
ensuring a peaceful sleeping environment
and improving sleep through medication in many cases.

Complications

Menopause can also bring about complications for some women such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and urinary incontinence.

Osteoporosis refers to the condition when bones become weaker, making them more prone to fractures. The risk of developing osteoporosis can be reduced by simple methods such as:

consuming a calcium-rich diet
engaging in weight-bearing exercises
taking calcium and vitamin D supplements

Estrogen levels play an active role in maintaining a healthy body. Due to low oestrogen levels, heart-related diseases are also common during menopause. Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease by:

exercising regularly
maintaining a healthy weight
managing high blood pressure and cholesterol levels

Urinary incontinence is a condition where urine leaks involuntarily from the bladder. It is due to the loss of pelvic muscle tone and can be intensified by hormonal changes during menopause. You can reduce your risk of developing urinary incontinence by

exercising the pelvic floor
maintaining a healthy weight
avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol

Consulting a Doctor

If you are experiencing menopause issues, it is essential to consult your doctor. Your doctor can help identify medical conditions and recommend suitable treatment options. Be open about your symptoms.

Conclusion

Menopause is a biological process that requires your attention. 73% of women in the world do not treat their menopausal symptoms, which can result in long-term side effects. While menstruation is a natural process, it is important to understand the changes in your body, after the menstruation stops. Seeking the right help from professionals is not something you should shy away from.

Request an appointment at Apollo Cradle, Bengaluru - Brookefield. Call 1860-500-1066 to book an appointment.

1. What is perimenopause? How is it different from menopause?

Perimenopause occurs when your body begins to transition from reproductive to non-reproductive. During perimenopause, you may experience irregular periods, hot flashes, and other menopause symptoms. Menopause, on the other hand, is defined as the point at which your reproductive cycle comes to an end.

2. Can menopause cause weight gain? How can I manage it?

Yes, menopause can create weight gain due to hormonal changes, decreased metabolism, and lifestyle factors. To manage weight gain during menopause, you can engage in regular exercise and maintain a healthy diet. You can also talk to your healthcare provider about the use of medications that may aid in weight management.

3. What are the risks associated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

HRT can be an effective treatment for menopause symptoms. However, HRT also carries risks, including an increased risk of breast cancer, stroke, and blood clots.

4. Can menopause affect my sex drive?

Yes, menopause does affect your sex drive due to hormonal changes and other menopausal symptoms, such as vaginal dryness. To manage a decreased sex drive, you can try using lubricants or vaginal oestrogen therapy. Engage in regular exercise to improve your mood and physical health.

5. What screenings am I required to undergo during menopause?

During menopause, you should receive regular screenings for bone and cardiovascular health. This may include bone density scans, cholesterol tests, blood pressure checks, and other tests as recommended by your doctor. You should also receive regular gynaecological exams and breast cancer screenings.