Menopause symptoms and His understanding
Menopause is the name given to the process by which the female reproductive system shuts down as a person passes through middle age. The ovaries stop producing estrogen and menstruation ceases. Once this happens the body goes through a period of adjustment to the reduced hormone levels, which is why some women experience symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings. The onset of menopause usually occurs between the ages of 40 to 60 and lasts anywhere from six to thirteen years with symptoms diminishing as time passes.
Menopause is usually diagnosed by symptoms alone, but a blood test can also be preformed to confirm the diagnosis. If you suspect the onset of menopause you should see your doctor immediately.
- Menopause Symptoms
When menopause is about to begin, there is usually a span of time where periods become irregular; shorter or longer, heavier or lighter, or occur with uneven frequency. This is called perimenopause. It’s a good idea to see your doctor about any dramatic changes to your menstral cycle even if you suspect perimenopause is the culprit. More information about perimenopause can be found here.
Menopause Symptoms: The Signs of Menopause
Do not let the size of this list scare you, not all women experience menopausal symptoms and not all women who experience symptoms experience all of these symptoms. Here are the most common:
* Hot flashes
* Night sweats
* Trouble sleeping
* Pain during intercourse
* Vaginal itchiness, dryness, or bleeding
* Increased urination frequency
* Increased urination urgency
* Incontinance
* Joint pain
* Muscle pain
* Back pain
* Thinning or sagging skin
* Mood Swings
* Irritability
* Fatigue
* Impaired Memory
Menopause also increases the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, bone loss, and other diseases. You should see your doctor for a personalized risk assessment.
Premature Menopause
About one percent of women experience menopause before the age of 40. There are a number of reasons a women may hit early menopause, including thyroid disease, diabetes, and having undergone chemotherapy. Premature menopause is diagnosed by measuring the levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in the blood. When menopause occurs, blood levels of FSH and LH spike. some time to become accustomed to the changes in diet and activity, both the rewards worth the time and effort spent to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.