What is Menopause?
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can happen earlier or later. Menopause is officially diagnosed after a woman has gone without a period for 12 consecutive months.
Symptoms of Menopause
Menopause is associated with a variety of symptoms, including:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood changes
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in sexual desire
Not every woman will experience all of these symptoms, and some women may have more severe symptoms than others.
Managing Menopause Symptoms
If you’re experiencing symptoms of menopause, there are several things you can do to manage them. These include:
- Hormone therapy: This involves taking estrogen and progesterone to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Hormone therapy can be delivered via pills, patches, gels, or vaginal creams.
- Non-hormonal medications: Certain medications, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help alleviate hot flashes and other symptoms.
- Lifestyle changes: Eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all help manage menopause symptoms.
