What
is Menopause?Menopause is the transition period in a woman's life when
the ovaries stop producing eggs. When the ovaries
stop producing eggs, menstrual activity decreases and eventually ceases, and the
body decreases the production of the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Menopause
affects individual women differently. In some women, menstrual activity stops suddenly.
In other women, menstrual activity tapers off until it completely stops. It may
take up to 3 years for the menstrual cycle to completely stop. Menopause is a
natural event.
Menopause is also called the change of life.
When
does Menopause occur?
The
occurrence of menopause is different for each woman. Menopause usually occurs between
the ages of 40 and 55. The age of when menopause occurs is affected by several
factors, including
- Nutrition.
Malnourished women begin menopause about 4 years earlier than well-nourished women
- Early
onset of menstruation. Women who begin menstruation at an early age are more likely
to begin menopause later
What
are the Symptoms of Menopause?
The
most common symptoms of menopause are:
- missed periods
- sleep disturbances
- hot flashes
- vaginal dryness
- changes in mood
- lack of sex drive
Each
of these symptoms are a result of hormonal changes. Hot flashes are caused by
an increase of blood flow in the blood vessels of the face, neck, chest and back.
Vaginal dryness is caused by thinning of the tissues of the vaginal wall, are
the two side effects most frequently complained about. The mood changes and lack
of sex drive may result partially from the hormone decrease, but may also result
from having to deal with hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Can
Menopause be prevented? No.
Menopause is a natural event that will occur to all women. Hot
Flashes Hot
flashes are caused by rapid decreases in estrogen levels. Unfortunately hot flashes
cannot be prevented. However, they can be helped and made less uncomfortable.
The herb Black Cohosh, used regularly, may help reduce the incidence and severity
of hot flashes in menopause. Here are some techniques that can help you deal with
them.
- Wear loose clothing
and dress in layers so you can peel off the top layers during a hot flash.
- Wear
fabrics that absorb moisture and dry quickly.
- Avoid
foods that may trigger hot flashes (hot drinks and spicy foods are common triggers)
- Splash
your face with cool water at the start of a flash.
- Avoid
Stress. It may contribute to the occurrence of hot flashes.
Menopause
Statistics - After
menopause, as a woman's body’s supply of the hormone estrogen declines the likelihood
of developing heart disease increases.
- About
75% of women experiencing menopause will have hot flashes.
- All
women will experience menopause.
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