Menopause

Menopause is the natural end of menstruation (monthly periods). The average age of menopause is 45 to 55 years. If menopause occurs prior to age 40, this is thought to be abnormal and is called premature menopause.

Menopause is the result of the depletion of egg cells from the ovaries and the reduction of female hormones. Menopause is a normal part of life. Surgery to remove the ovaries (oophorectomy) in premenopausal women causes menopause to begin prematurely (surgical menopause).

Stages

Perimenopause

Begins 3-5 yrs before menopause

Menopause

Complete cessation of menstrual period

Postmenopause

Begins one to two years after the last menstrual period

Causes

Menopause is a natural ageing process of the ovaries. Menopause  occurs when a number of functioning eggs within the ovaries declines.  As menopause approaches, the remaining eggs become more resistant to FSH, and the ovaries dramatically reduce their production of estrogen.

Premature menopause may be the result of several conditions–

  • Family history of premature menopause
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • X-chromosome abnormalities
  • Surgeries(pelvic surgery, surgical removal of ovaries, chemotherapy, or pelvic radiation therapy)
  • Medications that lower estrogen levels
  • Smoking

Signs And Symptoms of menopause

  • Anxiety
  • Difficult arousal and comfort during intercourse
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Diminished interest in sex
  • Disturbed sleep pattern
  • Face and neck flush
  • Headaches
  • Heavier or lighter bleeding
  • Increase in fat
  • Irritability and Depression
  • Joint and muscle stiffness or pain
  • Loss of elasticity in the skin
  • Loss of muscle mass
  • Memory problems
  • Painful intercourse
  • Prominent facial hair
  • Reduced fertility
  • Shorter or longer cycles
  • Skin in the genital area becomes drier and thinner
  • Spotting in between periods
  • Sudden onset of a feeling of heat
  • Thickening at the waist
  • Thinning of scalp hair
  • Urinary tract infection and incontinence
  • Vaginal infection potential increases

Investigations

  • Blood tests (FSH, Cholesterol levels)
  • Bone density
  • Pelvic exam
  • Pap smear

Treatment

        Ayurvedic Medicines are very effective in menopausal symptoms. Free from the side effects of hormones, Ayurveda has proved to be a boon for women’s health. 

Prevention

 Menopause is an ageing process which can be delayed but not at all prevented. Precautions are required to reduce the risk of diseases associated with estrogen loss, including osteoporosis and heart disease.

  • Increase intake of Phytoestrogens like Isoflavones: soybeans, chickpeas, and legumes, Lignans: flaxseeds, whole grains, and some fruits and vegetables
  • Eat a Healthy Diet( low in saturated fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and grains.)
  • Eating more calcium-rich dairy foods (low-fat or non-fat preferred), leafy green vegetables, and calcium-fortified foods and juices.
  • Vitamin D is found in sunlight and certain foods (fortified milk, liver, and tuna)
  • Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
  • Quit Smoking
  • Exercise Regularly
  • Yoga
  • Manage Stress

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