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Menopause
A woman has reached menopause when her menstrual periods have stopped for 12 consecutive months. As women age, their sex hormone levels decrease naturally. Your ability to fall pregnant and have periods ends when your ovaries stop producing eggs.
The time leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, is when some women experience symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, and mood swings. Sleep problems decreased energy, and mental health is some potential side effects of menopause. Menopause typically begins between the ages of 40 and 50 for most women. How long this phase lasts may be affected by the person's way of life. Surgery to remove the uterus or ovaries and specific cancer treatments can hasten menopause for some women.
Signs you’ve reached menopause
If you're experiencing menopausal symptoms, Dr van Der Merwe may inquire about your age, symptoms, and family history to determine possible causes. Several symptoms may present themselves as oestrogen levels drop. Mild symptoms are experienced by many women and can be successfully treated by making lifestyle changes. Some women experience no symptoms and do not need treatment, while others may experience moderate to severe discomfort.
Symptoms of menopause typically include:
- Hot flashes
- Slowed metabolism
- Thinning hair
- Trouble with sleep
- Vaginal dryness
- Weight gain
Menopause Treatment
Menopause is a natural phase of life and cannot be “cured”. Treatments are geared toward alleviating any discomfort you may be experiencing and preventing or effectively managing any chronic conditions you may develop as you age. If the symptoms are bothersome or reducing your quality of life, medical attention may be necessary. Women under 60, or within the first decade of menopause, may find relief from their symptoms with hormone replacement therapy. More specific menopause symptoms, such as hair loss and vaginal dryness, may be treated with other medications. Natural remedies, lifestyle changes, and alternative treatments can effectively alleviate mild to moderate menopause symptoms.
Discuss your treatment options and the potential outcomes with Dr van Der Merwe before making any final decisions.
Wherever the art of Medicine is loved, there is also a love of Humanity
Hippocrates
FAQ
Menopause is not painful in itself but can cause pain in various ways. For example, patients may experience pain during intercourse due to vaginal dryness or develop age-related arthritis.
Menopause averages around seven years but can go on for as long as fourteen.
To be considered postmenopausal, a woman must have gone at least 12 months without having her period. Your ovulatory years are over; you are no longer fertile. Your previous menopausal symptoms may lessen or disappear altogether.