Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause also known as the ‘change of life’ is a natural occurring phase in a woman’s life. It is a physical change when a woman stops having menstrual periods and is no longer able to reproduce. It is a crucial stage and there are several misconceptions associated with this biological phase. Menopause is not a disease; it is a natural juncture in every woman’s life, hence it is advisable to be aware of the various symptoms of Menopause and periMenopause to deal the situation with ease.

Women encounter this phase after a sequence of hormonal changes caused by the reduced production of oestrogen, a female hormone, which is produced by the ovaries. Since, oestrogen is associated with different female body parts; it causes symptoms before or during the Menopause.

Symptoms of Menopause

Some research shows that not every woman experiences symptoms when going through Menopause, but the fact remains that 80 to 85 percent of women all over the world not only experience the symptoms but also become worried about their health during Menopause. Menopause not only has physical symptoms but may also show deep emotional changes in women. Typical Symptoms of Menopause include:

1. Irregular Periods: During peri-Menopause, the ovaries stop ovulating regularly and as a result stop producing adequate amounts of progesterone. Oestrogen and progesterone then fall out of balance and can result in irregular periods.

2. Hot Flushes and Night Sweats: These are among the most serious symptoms during Menopause. Hot flushes (hot flashes) and night sweats are caused by an imbalance in hormones. Hot flushes cause severe warmth or heat in the body resulting in excess sweating, dizziness and pounding heart. Hot flushes can last anywhere from a few seconds to 20 minutes at a time. The situation may exist for two to three years. It also causes insomnia and palpitations.

3. Weight Gain: Weight gain during Menopause is quite common particularly around the waist and hips.due to the reduction of the production of oestrogen. This upsets the hormone balance and therefore there is an increased likelihood of women gaining weight during this period.

4. Sleep Problems: Sleeping problems, whether it is trouble getting to sleep, staying asleep or getting back to sleep when you wake during the night are a very common symptom of hormone imbalance and are prevalent in women going through peri-Menopause and Menopause. It effects between one third and two thirds of all women.

5. Cholesterol and Heart Disease: Women are also diagnosed with increased LDL Cholesterol level, which in the long run invites several heart diseases. In case of surgical Menopause, the condition is more risky and woman can easily fall prey to severe heart diseases.

Apart from aforesaid symptoms, a woman may also feel some vaginal changes caused due to the reduced oestrogen, burning sensation during urinating, changes in the shapes of the breasts, etc. Some studies also suggest that bone density loss is a major problem and may cause osteoporosis. All these troubles may lead a woman to depression and anxiety.

There is no treatment for Menopause as it is not an illness; however, if detected early, one can consult doctors to help manage some of the more uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flushes, anxiety or depression and get a diet plan to control cholesterol level.

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