What is Menopause?

iChhori Team
What Is Menopause?

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural biological transition marking the permanent end of menstrual cycles—diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without periods. It typically occurs between ages 45–55, though it can vary from the 30s to 60s. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

📌 Stages of Menopause

  1. Perimenopause: The transition phase lasting 4–10 years before menopause—marked by hormonal fluctuation and onset of symptoms. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
  2. Menopause: Defined by no menstrual periods for 12 months; most symptoms peak. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
  3. Postmenopause: The years after menopause; symptoms often ease, but health risks like osteoporosis and heart disease increase. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

🔍 Common Signs & Symptoms

  • Vasomotor: Hot flashes, night sweats, flushes, chills.
  • Sleep & Mood: Insomnia, mood swings, irritability, depression, anxiety. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
  • Urogenital: Vaginal dryness, discomfort, urinary issues.
  • Physical: Weight gain (especially abdominal), joint pain, muscle aches, dryness of skin and hair. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
  • Systemic: Bone density decline, cholesterol changes, increased cardiovascular risk. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

⚙️ What Causes These Changes?

Menopause results from declining production of ovarian hormones—primarily estrogen and progesterone—leading to multisystem effects on metabolism, cardiovascular function, bones, skin, brain, and genitourinary health. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

⚠️ Health Risks During and After Menopause

  • Osteoporosis: Bone density drops ~2–5% annually around menopause. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
  • Cardiovascular Disease: Loss of estrogen protection leads to higher LDL cholesterol and heart risk. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
  • Mental Health & Cognition: Mood disorders and cognitive changes may occur and predict future health outcomes. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

📚 Key Takeaways

  • Menopause is a normal life stage, not an illness.
  • Expect a varied set of symptoms that can affect multiple systems.
  • Timing and severity of symptoms differ by individual factors like health, stress, and ethnicity. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
  • Awareness enables you to manage symptoms and monitor long-term risks.

💡 What You Can Do

  • Track symptoms and menstrual changes via journals or apps.
  • Maintain bone and heart health through weight-bearing exercise, calcium, vitamin D, and nutritious diet.
  • Consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or non-hormonal treatments based on consultation with your healthcare provider.
  • Address sleep, mood, and urogenital symptoms early—through lifestyle strategies and targeted therapies.
  • Schedule routine health screenings: bone density, cholesterol, and cardiovascular risk evaluations.

If you'd like, I can also provide:

  • Printable infographics or downloadable HTML file.
  • Evidence-based resources on HRT, lifestyle tips, or dietary guidance.
  • Local information—like specialists or support groups in Assam.
أحدث أقدم