Menopause: Symptoms and Treatment Options
What is menopause?
Menopause marks the natural end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. It occurs when there has been no menstruation for a full year. This is due to hormonal changes, particularly a decrease in estrogen levels, which signals the end of fertility.
Duration and timing of menopause
Although menopause is defined as a specific time, the entire climacteric phase can last several years. It begins with perimenopause, the stage before the last menstrual period, and extends until postmenopause. In total, this transition can last between 4 and 10 years.
The average age of menopause is approximately 50 years. However, it may occur earlier or later, influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle (e.g., smoking) or medical interventions such as surgical removal of the ovaries.
Typical symptoms of menopause
Many women experience various discomforts due to hormonal changes at this stage of life. The most common symptoms of menopause include:
- Heat waves and sweating
- Sleep disorders
- Mood swings and irritability
- Fatigue and concentration problems
- Vaginal dryness and decreased sexual desire
These symptoms arise mainly due to reduced estrogen levels, as the body needs time to adapt to hormonal changes.
Diagnosis of menopause
Menopause is primarily diagnosed when menstruation has been absent for 12 consecutive months. Hormonal tests, such as measurement of FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and estrogen , may also be performed to obtain a more accurate medical evaluation.
Treatment options for menopausal symptoms
Treatment of menopause depends on the severity of symptoms. Some of the most commonly used measures include:
- Hormone therapy (hormone replacement therapy, HRT): Administration of estrogen or a combination therapy can effectively relieve symptoms such as heat waves and sleep problems.
- Natural alternatives: Supplements based on soy or red clover phytoestrogens, chasteberry or St. John’s wort may help with mild symptoms.
- Lifestyle adaptations: Healthy eating, regular exercise and techniques such as yoga or meditation can reduce symptoms.
Can menopause be delayed?
While it is not possible to specifically prevent menopause, leading a healthy lifestyle with exercise, a balanced diet and avoiding smoking can have a positive impact on ovarian function.
Health impact of menopause
Lack of estrogen during menopause increases the risk of certain health problems:
- Osteoporosis: Reduced bone density increases the risk of fractures.
- Cardiovascular disease: Decreased estrogen levels may increase the risk of heart disease.
- Weight gain: Hormonal changes can slow metabolism.
A calcium-rich diet and an active lifestyle can help prevent these risks.
Menopause and fertility
After menopause, a natural pregnancy is no longer possible, as the ovaries stop releasing viable eggs. However, during perimenopause, cycles may be irregular and pregnancy is still possible, so contraception is still relevant in this phase.
Conclusion
Menopause is a natural process that involves physical and hormonal changes. Through strategies such as hormone therapy, natural alternatives and a healthy lifestyle, many symptoms can be alleviated. Women should consider their individual needs and seek medical advice to cope with this stage in the best possible way.
