Is This Menopause?

Menopause, also known as the "change of life," is an inescapable, yet normal, occurrence in a woman's life. Simply put, menopause represents the time of a woman's last period. More specifically, menopause is defined as the time when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months.

On average, a woman reaches menopause at the age of 51. Nevertheless, symptoms and changes can begin a few years prior (perimenopause). These symptoms result as women experience changes in female hormone levels, specifically estrogen and progesterone, which are made by the ovaries. Some of the most common symptoms associated with menopause are listed below. Unfortunately, menopausal symptoms vary from person to person and can even last for close to five years during the transtion.

Common Symptoms of perimenopause & menopause:

• Changes in menstrual cycle (e.g. less regular, longer/shorter)
• Racing Heart Beat
  
• Flushing
• Genital Area Dryness
• Night sweats
• Hot Flashes
• Trouble Sleeping

Associated Problems:

Menopause may also signal the start of other common health issues, including osteoporosis and heart disease. You should talk with your physician about steps you can take to address these possible health concerns. Remember, your risk for these health problems can be reduced if you make the extra effort to eat healthy, exercise frequently, stop smoking, and consume adequate calcium and Vitamin D.

For more information, visit http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001896/.