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What is menopause? ► It refers to the last menstrual cycle that a woman undergoes ► For women, this is inherent in the ageing process. ► Natural menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing estrogen. ► Like in menarche, the age for menopause varies among women. It can happen anywhere between mid-40s to early 60s.
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.
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Interactive section of Medindia gives details regarding Female reproductive system showing how the sperm fetilize the eggs
You can deal with menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, weight gain and forgetfulness by making simple lifestyle changes.
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