What is menopause:
Menopause, or the change of life, usually occurs between ages 45 and 55. The body produces less estrogen and progesterone (female hormones), the menstrual periods stop, and the frequency of ovulation decreases, therefore reducing the probability of pregnancy.
Symptoms of menopause:
Shortly before you reach menopause, your periods may become irregular, the amount of bleeding may change or you may skip periods. You have reached menopause when your periods have been absent for at least one year. If your periods have been absent for six months to a year and then restart, notify your doctor. Symptoms of menopause also may occur after surgery if the surgery includes removal of ovaries.
Physical and emotional changes:
You may experience both physical and emotional changes during menopause. The following are some examples of these changes and self-help techniques to diminish the effect of the changes.
| Physical changes |
|
Techniques |
|
| 1. Hot flashes |
|
- Set maximum room temperature at 68 degrees.
- Wear layers of clothes and remove if necessary.
- Go to a quiet, calm area.
|
| 2. Vaginal dryness/ Painful intercourse |
|
- Use water-soluble lubricants, i.e., K-Y jelly®, Replens®, Astroglide®.
- Increase foreplay time.
|
| 3. Osteoporosis (weakening of the bones) |
|
- Women in the post-menopausal period need 1200 mg. of calcium per day and 800-1000 IU of Vitamin D3
- Increase calcium in diet, i.e. low-fat dairy products; dark green, leafy vegetables; seafoods or take calcium supplements
- Take a Vitamin D3 supplement daily
- Do weight bearing exercises regularly.
|
| 4. Increased risk of heart disease |
|
- Decrease fat in diet.
- Stop smoking.
- Exercise regularly.
|
Some other possible changes include: urinary tract infections, increased or decreased sexual drive, and urinary stress incontinence (leaking of urine when coughing or sneezing).
| Emotional changes |
|
Techniques |
|
1. Difficulty sleeping
2. Mood changes/ Irritability
3. Fatigue
4. Depression |
|
- Try not to sleep during the day.
- Perform relaxation/deep breathing exercises.
- Exercise regularly.
- Develop interests in new hobbies and activities.
|
In treating menopause, your doctor may recommend hormone replacement therapy for a short time to reduce physical and emotional discomforts. Be sure to discuss risks versus benefits with your caregiver. It's very important to continue yearly gynecological checkups after menopause.
Click here for AGH Clinical Services Information
Click here for West Penn-Forbes Regional Hospital Clinical Services Information
Click here for West Penn Hospital Clinical Services Information
Last Updated: February 04, 2009