FAQs in Menopause provides answers to many of the questions related the structure and functions of the ovary, menopause and its stages, symptoms experienced during the different stages of menopause, how menopause affects
body’s physiology, diagnosis, means of managing symptoms, treatment modalities including hormonal treatment and its effects and lifestyle modifications to cope with menopause symptoms. The text is supported by lifelike
videos and relevant images.
Menopause is the time when a woman's menstrual cycles stop completely. Sometimes menopause cycles, commonly known as hot flashes, can stop for a few months. In the case of menopause, a woman's ovaries stop producing the eggs or hormones for the rest of her life. After menopause, a woman's overall stop productivity decreases or stops completely. Atter menopause, a woman can no longer become pregnant. Although menopause, a woman's ovaries still produce some hormones for the rest of her life. After menopause, a woman can experience stop producing the eggs or hormones for the rest of her life. After menopause, a woman's overall productivity decreases or stops completely. After menopause, a woman cannot become pregnant. A further menopause, a woman can no longer conceive and some pregnancies for the rest of her life. After menopause, a woman can no longer bear children because pregnancy for the rest of her life.
Ovaries are a pair of gamete producing organs and are part of the female reproductive system that is situated in the pelvis. The main function of ovaries is to release an ovum every month, after puberty. The ovaries also secrete hormones estrogen and progesterone that are essential for a female to develop the secondary sexual characters such as growth and fat distribution in the breasts, narrow shoulders, broad hips, pubic hair distribution, and production of prolactin.
An ovum, or egg, is a female gamete released from the ovary. It is haploid in nature, meaning containing a single set of genetic material. The ovum fuses with the male gamete, sperm, during the process called fertilization to produce a zygote which develops into an infant.
The average age of menopause is just over 50 years of age, however, in some women it happens in their 40s.
Yes, menopause is a normal part of life and is sometimes referred to as the change of life.
Yes! Menopause is divided into three different stages or postmenopause, menopause, and postmenopausal.
Though the average age of menopause is 50, in some women it can occur before the age of 40. Menopause occurs because the ovaries before the age of 40. Menopause occurs because the ovaries become the age of 40 is known as early or premature menopause. It is also referred to as surgical or premature ovarian failure. It is a result to as premature ovarian failure. It is also referred to as surgical or premature ovarian failure. If it is also referred to as reproductive to as premenopausal ovarian failure. It is also referred to as reproductive failure.
Premature menopause can occur as a result of medical treatments such as surgery for removal treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy. Such as chemotherapy or hormonal treatments such as surgery for removal of uterine fibroids. Premature menopause can also occur naturally or automatically due to immune diseases wherein ovaries are attacked by the immune system. Premature menopause can cause a loss of fertility, diminished ovarian reserve, or autoimmune disorders wherein ovaries are attacked by the immune system. Promature menopause can also cause emotional or psychological symptoms such as depression or anxiety. Proper menopause can also occur as a result of natural or normal occurrences in women when none of the above conditions are present of heredity.
Early or premature menopause increases the risk for heart disease and osteoporosis due to hormonal changes. Hormone therapy (HT) could be recommended to manage early menopause.
Perimenopause is the period of menopausal transition where a woman starts to experience symptoms of menopause, but still continues to ovulate. It is the time leading from menopausal symptoms up to a woman's last period.
During perimenopause there are changes in the levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones. These changes cause menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, etc.
Yes, hot flash is the most common symptom experienced during perimenopause.
Hot flashes or hot flushes experienced by women during perimenopause are not of the same intensity and differ from person to person. They can be as mild as a light blush or as severe as night sweats.
Yes. Low doses of birth control pills containing estrogen are prescribed for perimenopausal women, as it is considered to prevent pregnancy as well as have health benefits.
Low dose estrogen acts as a birth control tool. In addition to preventing pregnancy, low-dose estrogen regulates heavy or irregular menstrual periods and prevents bone loss, thus protecting from osteoporosis, in addition to preventing ovarian and uterine cancer.
Although many women do not experience a change in their voice during menopause, some women tend to obtain a deeper voice over the years.
Additional facial hair growth is one of the common symptoms observed in many women during menopause. Various hair removal options are available to remove extra hair that has grown on the face and include waxing, hair removing creams and lotions, and laser hair removal.
There are a few complications associated with menopause, which primarily result from reduced estrogen levels. These include osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, urinary incontinence and urinary tract infections, weight gain, and sleep disturbance or insomnia. Reduced estrogen levels are also said to affect memory of a menopausal women, resulting in forgetfulness.
Menopause is the result of low levels of estrogen produced by the ovaries. Low levels of estrogen leads to bone loss and results in reduced bone mass, weakening the bones and making them brittle. This results in osteoporosis and frequent bone fractures.
Yes, women in menopause are at increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. This primarily results from changes in estrogen levels.
Hysterectomy is the removal of uterus with or without the removal of ovaries. Menstrual cycles cease in women who have undergone hysterectomy, even in cases where ovaries have been retained. However, when the ovaries are retained they continue to secrete the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Hence the symptoms of menopause are not perceived.
The time at which a woman enters menopause is not affected by birth control pills. But it is difficult to assess if a woman has entered menopause or not as birth control pills mask the characteristic symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. This is because, though the woman has entered menopause her body is supplied with adequate amounts of estrogen by the birth control pills.
Women at menopause are said to have a lower sex drive due to reduced estrogen levels. Reduced hormone levels result in hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. These symptoms, especially vaginal dryness, result in pain, and discomfort during sex.
The primary symptom of menopause is the lack of menstrual cycles or periods for more than a year. But, missing periods for a few months is not considered as menopause. The vaginal dryness, mood periods for a few months is not considered as menopause. The vaginal dryness, mood swings or sleep disturbances with menopause are normal changes and included with menopause. The others symptoms associated with menopause are due to hormonal changes and included: Irregular periods, hot flashes or flushes, trouble sleeping through the night, Night sweats (hot flashes that make you sweat while you sleep) and vaginal dryness. Menopause can also bring psychological changes or concerns. Uring tracking infections, Urinary tract infections, Urinary incontinence, Mood swings, and Sleeping issues are among the most common challenges and inconveniences.
Hot flashes or hot flushes are the sudden feeling of heat all over or in the upper part of the body. There is flushing of face and neck. Often red blotches appear on the chest, back, and arms. There is heavy sweating and cold shivering after the flash. Hot flushes differ from person to person. They can be mild or severe causing night sweats. Some women even experience sensations of nausea, suffocation, or even dizziness. Most hot flashes last from 30 seconds to 5 minutes. They usually disappear within a few years after menopause. However, 10-15% of women experience hot flashes for years.
Inability to have sex need not be a symptom of menopause. But, changing hormone levels during menopause leads to drier and thinner vaginal tissue. This can make sex uncomfortable. The woman also becomes prone to more vaginal and urinary tract infections. These, along with hormonal changes can lead to mood swings and a lack of interest in sex.
Menopause symptoms are related to hormone changes as well as aging. During menopause, many women experience trouble focusing or they become forgetful. Slight memory loss is said to be common during menopause. But there has been no evidence to relate menopause to forgetfulness or dementia.
Symptoms such as irregular periods and a change in bleeding patterns could indicate that a woman is nearing menopause. But women should visit a doctor to confirm the condition. Physical examination, medical history, and blood tests could be recommended to diagnose menopause.
Menopause is generally diagnosed based on the symptoms such as irregular or absence of periods for a year, or hot flashes. A physical examination and medical history can also be obtained by the doctor. Blood tests are recommended to evaluate hormone levels - follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen (estradiol) as FSH levels increase and estradiol levels decrease during menopause; and thyroid-stimulating hormone, as hypothyroidism can result in symptoms similar to those of menopause.
Yes, mild menopause symptoms need not be treated by menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). They can be managed with simple lifestyle changes.
Hot flashes, especially if mild, can be managed by: Avoiding things that trigger hot flashes, alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, stress, or places that cause inordinate heat of the body. Dressing in layers - When the hot flashes start, removing a layer of clothing can increase the body's temperature. Using a fan at home or in the workplace Taking slow, deep breaths and practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation Using a fan at home or in the workplace Taking a fan at home or in the workplace can provide comfort.
There are a number of vaginal lubricants that are available over the counter to manage vaginal dryness, which are available as creams, lotions, and moisturizers. However, severe dryness is treated with MHT.
Be physically active throughout the day: Regular exercise can help improve sleep quality and reduce the severity of menopausal symptoms. Avoid napping during the day: Napping during the day can interfere with nighttime sleep. If you must take a nap, limit it to 30 minutes or less. Avoid large meals before bedtime: Eating a large meal close to bedtime can cause discomfort and interfere with sleep. Aim to eat a light meal at least two to three hours before bedtime. Avoid smoking and caffeine before bedtime: Nicotine and caffeine can interfere with sleep and make symptoms worse. Avoid smoking and consuming caffeine at least four to six hours before bedtime. Keep the bedroom dark, quiet, and cool: Create a sleep-conducive environment by keeping the bedroom dark, quiet, and cool. Use earplugs, eye masks, or white noise machines if necessary. Try to follow a sleep time routine: Establish a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Try reading until tired enough to fall asleep: Reading a book or doing a relaxing activity can help you unwind and fall asleep more easily. If hot flashes are the reason for sleep disturbances, get treatment for hot flashes: Talk to your healthcare provider about treatment options for hot flashes, as reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes can improve sleep quality.
Mood swings and memory problems are common symptoms of menopause, but there are several strategies that can be effective in managing them. Here are some tips: Practice stress management techniques: Stress can worsen mood swings and memory problems. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help reduce stress levels. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise has been shown to improve mood and cognitive function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Get enough sleep: Sleep disturbances can affect mood and cognitive function. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night and try to establish a regular sleep schedule. Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help improve overall health and may also improve mood and cognitive function. Stay socially engaged: Staying connected with friends and family can help improve mood and cognitive function. Join a social group, volunteer, or take a class to stay engaged and active. Consider hormone therapy: Hormone therapy can be effective in managing mood swings and memory problems, but it is not suitable for everyone. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of hormone therapy. Talk to your healthcare provider: If mood swings or memory problems are interfering with your daily life, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help rule out any underlying medical conditions and discuss treatment options.
Yes, menopausal symptoms can be treated. The most widely used and effective therapy is menopausal hormone therapy (MHT).
Hormone therapy, particularly estrogen therapy, is the most effective treatment recommended for menopausal women to reduce hot flashes. Low-dose antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, citalopram, and sertraline are also prescribed to reduce depression as well as menopausal hot flashes. Gabapentin and clonidine are also prescribed to reduce hot flashes. Bisphosphonates and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are used to reduce bone loss and the risk of bone fracture. Vaginal estrogen, administered directly to the vagina using a vaginal tablet, ring or cream, helps alleviate vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, and a few urinary symptoms.
Menopausal hormone therapy or MHT is also called hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This involves supplementing the body with the hormones estrogen and progesterone. MHT is beneficial in women with moderate to severe menopausal symptoms. It also helps in preventing bone loss.
Menopausal hormone therapy helps easing menopause symptoms by: Reducing hot flashes Reducing night sweats, and other sleep related problems Reducing vaginal dryness Slowing bone loss Easing mood swings and depression. Slowing bone loss Reducing vaginal dryness and discomfort Easing mood dryness and discomfort Slowing bone loss and losing weight Easing mood swings and depression.
Hot flashes are treated along with other menopause symptoms with menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). MHT relieves hot flashes for many women. Other supplements such as vitamin B complex, vitamin E, and soy protein are also known provide relief from hot flashes.
Like all medications, there are risks and benefits for hormone therapy. A few studies have shown that long term use of MHT increases the risk of blood clot and stroke. A few other studies on MHT as well as estrogen use indicate the risk of breast cancer. Recent studies in this field indicate that low-dose MHT may not have the possible risk of stroke that higher doses can have. Most experts, hence, recommend the use of lowest dose that helps relieve symptoms and for the shortest time needed.
MHT has been found to have a few adverse reactions or side effects. Commonly reported adverse reactions include: Vaginal bleeding Abdominal bloating Headache Mood swings Tenderness of the breasts Long-term usage of MHT could lead to cancer such as breast cancer, heart attack, and stroke.
MHT is not recommended for women who are: Pregnant or thinking they may become pregnant Suffering from undiagnosed vaginal bleeding Suffering from certain patients Have or are with a history of stroke, heart disease, or liver diseases.
MHT is only recommended to reduce the symptoms of menopause and not as a treatment option for heart diseases, dementia, or Alzheimers disease. In fact, high doses of MHT have been associated with increased risk of heart attacks. In fact, high doses and long-term treatment with MHT has been associated with weakened immunity and increased risk of heart disease. In fact, high doses and long-term treatment with MHT has been associated with weakened immunity and increased risk of heart attacks. In fact, high doses of MHT has been found to increase the risk of breast cancer. It is important to have a history of menopause associated with increased risk of heart attacks.
There are many home made remedies for menopause symptoms especially hot flashes. Many herbs or other plant based products are used to relieve hot flashes. Naming a few are soy, and herbs such as black cohosh, wild yam, dong quai, and valerian root. Soy contains phytoestrogens that has the same effects as estrogen. However, there is no definite proof that soy or other sources of phytoestrogens make hot flashes better.
Physical activity is necessary for general well being. It benefits mood, sleep, and heart health. In menopausal women, regular physical activity has been found to prevent weight gain, strengthen bones, reduce the risk of cancer, diabetes and heart diseases, as well as improve psychological health. Generally, at least 2 hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate physical activity or 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity or a combination of the two is recommended for women at menopause.
A well balanced diet, including fruits and vegetables, is recommended for menopausal women. Food rich in calcium, vitamins, and iron or supplements are highly beneficial. High-fat and high-sugar foods are to be avoided. Increase the intake of omega-3 fatty acids which are found in fish, olive oil, and canola oil. Caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages such as soft drinks are to be avoided.
Bones can be kept strong with weight-bearing exercises such as walking, climbing stairs, or using weights. Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, or taking calcium and vitamin D supplements also helps maintain bone mass. Abstaining from smoking also helps protect the bones.
Following a few lifestyle changes helps manage symptoms of menopause. They include: Regular Exercise, particularly strength and pelvic floor muscles Not smoking Maintaining hot flashes and weight It is important to regularly exercise, particularly strength and pelvic floor muscles. Following a healthy diet Not smoking Managing hot flashes and weight Managing stress by practicing relaxation techniques. Regular cardiovascular and vaginal dryness assessments and discomfort by the use of vaginal lubricants Managing stress by practicing relaxation techniques. Regular screenings by practitioners regarding pelvic relaxation techniques.
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