What is menopause?

This blog is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek guidance from your healthcare provider. 

The phase prior to menopause is known as the perimenopausal period. During this time, women may start to experience irregular periods, mood changes, vaginal dryness, and the notorious hot flashes. 

Menopause occurs when a woman has been without her menstrual period for twelve (12) months. As the menstrual period permanently stops, a woman no longer is able to become pregnant. The average age a woman achieves menopause in the US is 52 years old. There is no cure for menopause as this is a natural progression with two hormones (estrogen and progesterone) declining within the body.

After menopause, women are at increased risk for certain health conditions, to include bone loss (osteoporosis), stroke, and heart disease. It is important for women to schedule regular medical appointments with their healthcare provider.  Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet, limiting alcohol intake, not use tobacco products, and regular exercise can be beneficial for one’s overall health. 

A future blog will be posted to discuss menopause for women who have undergone surgery removal of their uterus. Stay tuned.

Check out this video created by the National Institute on Aging!

References

National Institute on Aging. (n.d.). What is menopause?. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/menopause/what-menopause