Postmenopause is the time after a woman's final menstrual period. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. The average age of menopause is 51, but it can happen anytime between 40-55 years old.
What causes postmenopause?
As women age, their ovaries start making less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones control menstrual cycles and egg production. Lower hormone levels cause periods to stop and postmenopause to start. Genetics, smoking, cancer treatment, and surgery can make menopause start earlier.
What happens during postmenopause?
Many women have symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, and emotional changes during perimenopause and postmenopause. Lower estrogen levels also increase risks for certain health conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease.
What are the stages?
There are 3 stages:
- Perimenopause - Irregular periods and early menopause symptoms start. Usually lasts 4 years, but can be longer.
- Menopause - The final period. Diagnosed after 12 months without a period.
- Postmenopause - Begins 1 year after the final period. Symptoms may still occur.
How is postmenopause treated?
- Hormone therapy - Estrogen with or without progesterone can treat hot flashes, bone loss, and vaginal symptoms. Potential risks include blood clots, stroke, heart disease, and cancer. Discuss the pros and cons with your healthcare provider.
- Healthy lifestyle - Eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, not smoking, and limiting alcohol can all help manage symptoms.
- Vaginal estrogen - Low-dose topical estrogen can help relieve vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex without increasing risks associated with systemic hormone therapy.
- Supplements - Soy, black cohosh, vitamin D, and omega-3s may help some people. Research is limited on effectiveness and safety.
- Prescription medications - Drugs like antidepressants and anticonvulsants show modest benefits for hot flashes.
- At Optimal Hormone Wellness Center, our caring medical team specializes in hormone therapy and tailored treatment plans to help women transition through perimenopause and postmenopause smoothly. Contact us today to learn about our personalized services.
I hope this gives a helpful overview of what happens during the postmenopausal transition. Remember, menopause symptoms can last for years, but lifestyle changes and medical treatment can provide relief. Work closely with your healthcare provider to navigate this new phase of life.