What are the symptoms of menopause?

What is menopause?

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman's life that marks the end of her menstrual cycle and reproductive capacity. This biological process generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can vary depending on genetic, environmental and health factors. Menopause is officially diagnosed when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months.

During menopause, the ovaries gradually stop producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone, triggering a series of changes in a woman's body. These changes can be physical, emotional and psychological, and vary in intensity and duration from woman to woman. The transition to menopause can be a challenging period, but it is also an opportunity for women to become more aware of their health and well-being.

What are the first symptoms of premenopause?

Premenopause is the transitional period before menopause. It can begin several years before the last menstrual period and is characterized by hormonal fluctuations that cause a range of symptoms. Early symptoms of premenopause may include:

1. Menstrual irregularities : Menstrual cycles may become irregular, shorter or longer, and flow may vary in intensity.
2. Hot flashes : sudden sensations of intense heat that may be accompanied by sweating and redness of the skin.
3. Night sweats : Excessive sweating at night that can disrupt sleep and cause discomfort.
4. Mood swings : emotional disturbances such as irritability, anxiety, sadness and sudden mood changes.
5. Fatigue : a persistent feeling of tiredness or lack of energy, even after a night's sleep.
6. Sleep problems : Difficulty falling or staying asleep, often due to hot flashes and night sweats.
7. Weight gain : tendency to gain weight, especially around the waist.
8. Decreased libido : decreased sexual interest or desire.
9. Vaginal dryness : decreased natural lubrication that can cause discomfort during sexual intercourse.
10. Muscle and joint pain : appearance of pain and discomfort in muscles and joints without an apparent cause.

What are the first symptoms of menopause in women?

Menopause is officially established when a woman has gone a full year without having a menstrual period. However, symptoms of menopause may overlap with those of premenopause and continue after the last menstrual period. Early symptoms of menopause in women include:

1. Absence of menstruation : The clearest sign that menopause has arrived is the complete absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months.
2. Hot flashes and night sweats : These persist and may even intensify, affecting quality of life and emotional well-being.
3. Vaginal dryness and dyspareunia : Decreased estrogen levels cause dryness and thinning of the vaginal walls, which can cause pain during sexual intercourse.
4. Sleep problems : persistent difficulty sleeping, insomnia, and waking up frequently during the night.
5. Mood swings : Emotional disturbances persist, with an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and abrupt mood swings.
6. Memory and concentration problems : difficulty remembering things or concentrating on specific tasks.
7. Skin and hair : Skin may become drier and thinner, and hair may become finer and brittle.
8. Weight gain and slow metabolism : The tendency to gain weight and difficulty losing it due to a slower metabolism.

What effects does menopause have on women?

Menopause can have a wide range of effects on women, beyond the immediate physical symptoms. Some of these effects include:

1. Bone health : Decreased estrogen can lead to a loss of bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
2. Cardiovascular health : Menopause can increase the risk of heart disease due to changes in cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
3. Mental and emotional health : Hormonal changes can affect mood and increase the risk of emotional disorders such as depression and anxiety.
4. Sexual function : Vaginal dryness and low libido can affect sex life and intimacy.
5. General health : Fatigue and decreased energy can affect your ability to perform daily activities and maintain an active lifestyle.
6. Physical appearance : Changes in skin, hair, and body shape can affect self-esteem and self-image.

How to combat the symptoms of menopause?

Combating menopausal symptoms requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses lifestyle changes, hormone therapies, and natural treatments. Some effective strategies include:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – HRT can help relieve many of the symptoms of menopause by replacing the declining levels of estrogen and progesterone. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with a health care professional.
2. Healthy diet : Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce symptoms. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health.
3. Regular exercise : Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, improves mood and sleep quality, and strengthens bones and muscles.
4. Natural supplements : Some supplements, such as soy, red clover, black cohosh, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help relieve menopausal symptoms. Also, the use of adaptogens such as Hormobalance is an ideal solution for women who want natural support for their hormonal health. This formula combines 9 adaptogens that work together to offer a series of benefits that help you maintain a calm and comfortable menopause, increase concentration, and make your memory more effective.
5. Hydration and skin care : Staying well hydrated and using appropriate moisturizers can help combat dry skin.
6. Relaxation techniques : Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
7. Emotional support : Seeking support from friends, family or support groups can be very beneficial. Talking to other women who are going through the same stage can provide emotional relief and understanding.
8. Regular medical check-up : It is essential to have regular medical check-ups to monitor overall health and manage any problems that may arise during menopause.

Menopause is a significant stage in a woman's life that brings with it a number of physical, emotional and psychological changes. Recognizing and understanding the symptoms can help you take steps to manage them effectively, improving your quality of life and promoting overall well-being.