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Menopause
Menopause
by
Amy Scholten, MPH DefinitionMenopause is the time when a woman's menstrual period ends. Menopause is considered complete when a woman has been without her period for one year. Menopause can occur any time between ages 40 and 60. On average, it occurs at age 51. Menopause is gradual. The period of time leading up to complete menopause is called perimenopause. Premature menopause occurs before the age of 40. Menopause can also be surgically induced when the ovaries are removed. Menopause is a natural process. Treatment is used to reduce the symptoms associated with menopause. CausesMenopause is caused by a gradual decrease in a hormone called estrogen. Estrogen is released by the ovaries. The decrease in estrogen eventually stops the ovaries from releasing eggs. Risk Factors TOPMenopause is a natural process associated with aging. Symptoms TOPSymptoms may include:
Diagnosis TOPYour doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Natural menopause is diagnosed when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Menopause may need to be confirmed if it was caused by a surgical procedure. A blood test may be done to look for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). High levels of FSH may indicate menopause. Treatment TOPMenopause is a natural part of life. It does not necessarily require treatment. However, symptoms and health risks associated with low estrogen can be treated. These include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis, which is a loss of bone mass.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)Types of hormone replacement therapies include:
HRT is available as tablets, gels, skin patches, vaginal rings, vaginal tablets, injections, and pellets inserted into the skin. There are a number of possible risks associated with HRT, such as:
Healthful DietA healthful diet during menopause can improve your sense of well-being. It may also reduce the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, and certain cancers. The diet should be low in fat. It should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Your diet should also include enough calcium and vitamin D. Limit Caffeine and AlcoholCaffeine and alcohol may increase your symptoms of anxiety and insomnia. They can also increase your loss of calcium. If you drink alcohol, only drink in moderation. Moderation is 1-2 drinks per day. Quit SmokingSmoking can increase the risk of early menopause, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Regular ExerciseWeight-bearing exercises like walking and climbing stairs, and strength exercises may also decrease your risk of osteoporosis. Stress ManagementStress management may help ease tension, anxiety, and other menopausal symptoms. Deep breathing, massage, warm baths, and quiet music are examples of relaxation techniques. Over-the-Counter ProductsVaginal moisturizers and vaginal lubricants are used to help vaginal dryness. Nonhormonal Medications for Hot Flashes
Prevention TOPMenopause is a natural biologic event that does not need to be prevented. RESOURCES:Healthy Women http://www.healthywomen.org The
North American Menopause Society http://www.menopause.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca Women's Health Matters http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca References:Menopause. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what. Updated January 15, 2013. Accessed April 18, 2013.
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Last reviewed April 2013 by Brian Randall, MD Last Updated: 4/18/2013 | |