Menopause
Menopause technically occurs twelve months after a woman has her last period. This is the time in your life where your fertility ends. Menopause is not an overnight event and is something that takes months or years to complete.
These are the common symptoms of menopause:
Change in menstrual cycle, with differing times between periods and differences in flow
Spotting between periods
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Sleeping difficulties
Vaginal dryness and an increase in vaginal infections
Bone density loss
Mood shifts
Increase in urinary incontinence
Decrease in sexual interest
Weight gain around the waist
Thinning hair
Depression
Forgetfulness
Autoimmune diseases — such as rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, lupus, and type 1 diabetes — in which the body attacks itself, are 2.3 times more likely to occur in women than in men. Most cases are diagnosed in women of childbearing age. Some of these diseases first appear or become worse after a pregnancy. See your health-care provider if you experience any symptoms that concern you.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is a period of time when your body begins the transition to menopause. It can take from two to eight years, including the year after your last period. Your ovaries slowly cease functioning, and your body produces fewer amounts of certain hormones. This usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, but for some women it begins earlier in their thirties. Symptoms of perimenopause include the following:
Changes in your menstrual cycle (longer or shorter, heavier or lighter, or missed periods)
Hot flashes
Night sweats (hot flashes while sleeping)
Vaginal dryness
Sleep difficulties
Mood swings
Increase in urinary tract infections and urinary incontinence
Decreased sexual interest
Increased body fat around the waist
Memory problems
Premature menopause occurs when a woman enters menopause before age 40. Premature menopause causes the same symptoms as menopause, but they are usually stronger. Early menopause can put a woman at higher risk for bone density loss.
Birth control pills are often used to control these symptoms. It is important to note that you can still get pregnant during perimenopause, even if you're not having regular periods. Getting enough exercise, eating a healthy diet, and reducing stress can also help relieve symptoms.
