Mood swings, hot flashes, poor sleep, night sweats. These are all symptoms that women can experience during menopause. In some women, menopausal changes occur long before menstruation ceases.
early signs
“Women may notice changes in the length, regularity, weight and duration of their menstrual cycles, as well as changes in mood and mood,” said Laura Cota, M.D., an obstetrician and gynecologist at McLaren Greater Lansing Women’s Health. Temperature intolerances such as hot flashes may begin to appear.” “These are signs associated with the transition to menopause, also known as perimenopause.”
Women in the United States typically begin the transition to menopause between the ages of 40 and 58, although some women may experience perimenopause earlier. During this period, fertility begins to decline, hormonal patterns begin to fluctuate, and estrogen, the female sex hormone, decreases.
How to know what stage you are in
One of the main changes a person may notice is irregular periods. Doctors can also test a person’s hormone levels to measure follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). During menopause, FSH levels increase.
“Menopause is when you have stopped menstruating for 12 consecutive months,” says Dr. Kota. “This is the point at which the ovaries no longer release eggs and stop producing most of the estrogen.”
Treatments and treatment options
Women going through menopause can suffer from anxiety and depression, as well as physical symptoms such as night sweats, trouble sleeping, and vaginal dryness. Because the intensity and frequency of symptoms vary from person to person, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about how you’re feeling and the severity of your symptoms. Various treatment plans are available, including hormonal and non-hormonal therapy.
“Prescription medications such as estrogen therapy, oral contraceptives, and antidepressants may be used to reduce the effects of symptoms,” says Dr. Kota. “Other non-hormonal therapies include dietary and exercise changes that have significant benefits for overall health.”
After menopause, symptoms may lessen or disappear completely in women. Some women may experience symptoms that can last for years. Kota stresses that menopause is a natural transition and that women should take time for themselves and know that they don’t have to go through these changes in silence.
“Self-care is very important during this time,” says Dr. Kota. “Women should know they are not alone. Talk to loved ones about how you are feeling and always see a doctor if you have concerns.”
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