Dealing with Menopause - Slideshow

Physiology of menopause

► In the mid-thirties, hormone production in the ovaries begins to decline, as with the supply of follicles and eggs.

► This process accelerates in the forties, causing irregular menstrual cycles and sometimes, heavy bleeding.

► Slowly, menstruation will come to an end.

Physiology of menopause

► The estrogen hormone continues to be produced in small amounts. But the monthly ovulation cycle has ended at this stage.

► Menopause can be identified only retrospectively; about a year after the last period.

Surgical menopause

► Besides natural menopause, clinical intervention can also end the reproductive cycle in women.

► When the ovaries of a woman are surgically removed (oophorectomy), the woman would immediately be in the "surgical menopause" stage.

► In partial hysterectomy (when only the uterus is removed), even though menstruation has ended, the ovaries continue to function

► In this case, menopause will not occur until the ovulation cycle ends.

Signs of menopause

► There are identifiable symptoms that set in before menopause.

► The most common signs include hot flashes, cold night sweats, decreased libido, extreme and sudden fatigue, insomnia

► Memory difficulties and forgetfulness, mood swings, pain in the joints, thinning hair, vaginal dryness.

Signs of menopause

► Breast tenderness, body odour changes, gum problems

► These can also be symptomatic of other illnesses; symptoms must not be considered individually as the onset of menopause.

Medical Side-effects

► Reduced production of estrogen has the following side-effects:

► Increased risk of cardiovascular disease

► Heightened chances of osteoporosis

► Redistribution of weight in the thighs and central abdominal region, leading to the 'disappearing waistline'.

Dealing with Menopause

► Exercise and lifestyle changes are important

► Eat sensibly. Metabolism slows with age. So burning calories becomes difficult

► Reduce alcohol and caffeine consumption.

► Control intake of calories and increase fiber consumption.

► At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise is mandatory.

Dealing with menopause

► Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a possible medical option for dealing with menopause.

► It replaces the lost hormones - estrogen and progesterone

► It should be medically prescribed. It can be a pill, skin patch etc

HRT

► HRT also reduces risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.

► Short-term side effects include symptoms similar to PMS like nausea, headaches, bloating etc

► Long-term effects are still unknown.

Menopause

► Menopause is a normal process in most women; allow it to run its course

► Make suitable lifestyle adjustments to meet your changing needs

► You can also join Medindia's Menopause Support Group. Discuss issues with other women and make real-time consultations with physicians.