Menopause is a natural biological process that all women experience as they age. It refers to the end of a woman's menstrual cycles and her natural ability to become pregnant.
The lead up to menopause is called perimenopause. This transition phase can start several years before menopause when hormone levels become less predictable. Common symptoms in perimenopause include hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, and mood changes.
Menopause officially begins when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months (and there are no other underlying causes). The average age for menopause is 51, but it can happen anywhere between the ages of 40 and 58.
Some key changes that occur during menopause:
Managing menopausal symptoms is important for your overall wellbeing. Hormone therapy can provide relief from hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal atrophy. Staying active, managing stress, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough calcium and vitamin D also helps.
If you're experiencing menopause or perimenopausal symptoms, the caring professionals at Harmony Hormone Care can help create a customized treatment plan for you. Their integrated approach looks at lifestyle, hormones, nutrition, and more.
The transition through perimenopause and into menopause is a normal part of aging as a woman. Understanding the changes happening in your body, having open discussions with your doctor, and finding the right management plan for your symptoms will help you take charge of your health during this time of transition.