Menopause is a natural transition that all women experience as they age. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and menstrual cycles.
The medical definition of menopause is when a woman has gone 12 full months without a period. This happens because the ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce much less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
On average, women go through menopause around age 51. But it can happen earlier or later. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. This is when hormone levels start to fluctuate and rise and fall unevenly.
The lowering of estrogen during perimenopause and menopause causes changes and symptoms like:
Lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help relieve symptoms. As a woman, understanding what's happening in your body can help you feel more in control.
Once a woman reaches menopause, her ovaries will no longer release eggs. She can no longer get pregnant naturally. Other body changes occur during this postmenopausal stage as well:
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by exercising, not smoking, and getting enough calcium and vitamin D helps promote bone, heart, and overall health. Many women also take hormone therapy short-term for symptom relief.
Talk to your doctor about what to expect during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Understanding this transition can help you thrive in this next stage of life.
For personalized care and expert advice on navigating menopause, visit Hormone Harmony Clinic. Our caring doctors help women balance their hormones for better health during and after menopause. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.