Menopause: What You Need to Know
Menopause is an important part in the life of a woman. As a woman ages, her hormones begin to settle down. Menopause is a normal process but can come with a lot of difficult side effects. Fortunately, there are some treatment options to help women get through menopause with as much ease as possible. Here are some things you need to know about menopause:
What Happens During Menopause?
Women begin going through the menopausal process in their 40s. During this time, the menstrual cycle starts to become irregular. Some women enter the final stages of menopause in their 50s, though some can go through menopause well after that.
Menopause occurs when the ovaries cease releasing eggs. Once this happens, a woman can no longer have babies or have a monthly cycle. During this time, the hormones enter a transitional phase that can bring on some undesirable symptoms.
What Symptoms Are Associated with Menopause?
There are several uncomfortable side effects that come along as a woman enters menopause. Hot flashes and night sweats are among the most common issues with menopause. Some women gain weight and suffer from dry skin. Fatigue and changes in sleeping patterns are also common with menopause. Mood changes can also occur. Some women may experience a decreased libido, vaginal dryness, and pain when having intercourse.
Women are often likely to encounter some additional health concerns, such as heart disease and osteoporosis.
How Can Menopause Be Treated?
One of the best ways to treat menopause is to fully understand what is happening to your body so you can best manage your symptoms. To treat the symptoms, your doctor may begin a regimen of hormonal treatment to supplement your natural hormones. You may also be advised to take medication to help stabilize your mood. Adrenal hormone supplements are common when women experience severe fatigue. A healthy diet and exercise are also encouraged. Those women who gain weight during menopause may also enter a weight management plan to help. The doctor may also have you test your bone density levels to see if you are experiencing signs of osteoporosis.
Menopause is a major change in a woman's life. If you are beginning to experience the onset of menopausal symptoms, you need to see your gynecologist to begin any therapies you need. Do not be shy about asking questions or requesting the help you need to feel normal. Menopause is not an end of your life. You can still thrive well after menopause begins.
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