Menopause impacts all women eventually!
While it is not comfortable, it is completely normal. This natural decline in
reproductive hormones usually occurs between ages 40 and 50. However, certain
medical conditions or surgeries can cause it to appear in women of all ages.
In this transitional time when a woman stops having
menstrual periods, she can experience symptoms that
range from simple period changes to problems sleeping for an extended amount of
time. You may not experience every single symptom listed below and the severity
of symptoms varies from woman to woman. Luckily, woman do not need to simply
grit and bear the pain and discomfort!There are ways to overcome the symptoms
associated with this transition.
So, without further ado, here are the common symptoms associated with menopause and a few
pointers that will help make dealing with them more comfortable.
Insomnia or Problems
Sleeping
During menopause, it may be
challenging to get the recommended eight hours of sleep. Take part in
activities that will make you exhausted by the end of the day, such as
exercising or working out. Avoid tasks that may induce problems, like checking
your phone before going to sleep and eating right before.
Frequent Urination
It is not uncommon for women to have a dire need to urinate
even without a full bladder. Keep away from alcoholic drinks and stay hydrated.
If problems persist or worsen, seek medical treatment options from your doctor.
Decreased Libido,
Vaginal Dryness and Pain during Intercourse
Being less interested in sex is a typical symptom in the
months or years leading up to menopause.
Additionally, the decreased production of estrogen and progesterone can be very
unsatisfying. Many over-the-counter and prescriptive treatments and lubricants
are available to assist in sexual arousal.
Hot Flashes
Many women
experience sudden feelings of heat in the body which can range from mild to
intense. According to the National Institute on Aging, a typical hot
flash lasts between 30 seconds to 10 minutes. While hot flashes are perhaps the
best well-known symptom of menopause, it is not one that you simply have to
accept as part of the process. Speak with your doctor to find proper options
that offer relief from hot flash symptoms.
Depression and Mood
Swings
You aren’t crazy! Irritability, depression, and quick
transitions between mood swings are common with changes in hormone production.
As long as you are self-aware of these symptoms, you can overcome them. If your
moods are not too extreme, then simply being honest with your friends and
family is enough. They’ll understand! But, if your moods are extreme enough
that it is impacting your daily life, speak to your doctor about options for
helping you find your balance again.
Irregular Periods
Periods don’t simply start or stop. For some time before
stopping, your menstrual cycle may unpredictable. Ironically, heavier or
prolonged periods are common at the start of menopause. Spotting may also
continue for some time after normal menstrual cycles stop. It’s not fun but it
is normal! However, please reach out to a doctor if your periods are very close
together, last more than a week, have extreme bleeding, or experience severe
pain.
Weight Gain/Slowed
Metabolism
Throughout the menopause, it is extremelyimportant to keep
up with your health. Your body is your most important asset. Get a fitbit,
exercise often, track your diet, and download apps that will help you do all of
these things. Sudden weight gain or loss is a typical symptom of menopause, so it’s important to remain in control of
your body.
If you feel that your symptoms are more severe than they
should be, seeking medical attention is very important. If you’re located in
San Antonio and you would like to schedule an
appointment at the Institute for Women’s Health for services related to menopause management, symptoms and treatment
options above, click here.
