Menopause is a natural transitional biological process that occurs as women age, and the ovaries stop making eggs and estrogen and progesterone. These hormones regulate menstruation and as they diminish, fertility declines.
Women may notice cycle changes with periods becoming longer, shorter, heavier, lighter or more or less frequent until the ovaries stop making eggs and menstruation ceases. You are considered menopausal when you have gone a full year without a period. The average age of menopause is 51, although the perimenopausal process can begin in the early 40s.
The transition between menstrual cycles becoming irregular and completely stopping is called perimenopause, which usually begins between the ages of 45-55, although some women begin experiencing symptoms years earlier. Menopausal symptoms usually last around seven years, but some women continue to experience symptoms for as long as 14 years.
Menopause can also be triggered by treatments that remove or alter your ovaries or by certain medications or other health conditions. During this transition, physical symptoms such as hot flashes and emotional irritability may be problematic. You may notice disruptions to sleep and changes in memory and mood.
Signs that you might be peri or post menopausal include:
Your experience during this time of transition is also shaped by your overall health and wellness. Women who smoke, are overweight, or are in poor overall health can have a more difficult time than those who embrace healthier lifestyles.
There’s no one test to determine perimenopause or menopause. This is determined based on your symptoms and irregular menstrual cycles. Continuing with your annual women’s wellness exam is even more important. You might need additional appointments to discuss these issues in further detail.
After menopause, the risks of heart disease, osteoporosis, and cancer increase. Eve will be sure to assess and monitor your overall health and recommend appropriate screening tests to stay healthy.