Menopause

Menopause occurs when a woman stops having menstrual periods, and is usually said to be complete when there are no periods for a full year. Menopause occurs naturally at an average age of 51, but it can be surgically triggered at any age if ovaries are removed.

Perimenopause is the term for the transition period from the time a woman's hormones begin to change to menopause. This transition usually begins about 3 to 5 years before the final menstrual period, but can begin earlier.

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Women may experience both physical and psychological symptoms during menopause. Each woman has a different experience, with symptoms lasting a few weeks or several years. The symptoms may come and go at any time.

Physical Symptoms:

• Irregular menstrual periods
• Hot flashes
• Dry skin
• Night sweats and disturbed sleep patterns
• Vaginal dryness
• More frequent urination or leakage of urine
• More frequent minor vaginal and urinary infections

Psychological Symptoms:

• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Tearfulness, irritability
• Less desire for sex
• Lack of concentration
• More trouble remembering things

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Of all the health choices you face as you approach menopause, whether to use hormone-replacement therapy is an individual choice that should be made with your physician with consideration of the risks and benefits for your individual situation.