Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life when her periods stop permanently and she no longer can become pregnant. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. This phase can start 8-10 years before menopause when hormone levels naturally start to decline.
During perimenopause, women may experience changes like:
Eventually periods end completely, marking the official point of menopause. This typically happens between the ages of 45-55. At this point egg production halts and hormone levels drop significantly.
The transition through menopause is different for every woman. Some may struggle with more severe symptoms that disrupt their quality of life. If this is the case for you, see your healthcare provider. They can offer solutions to help better manage this change.
For example, at Vital Hormones Clinic we specialize in customized hormone therapy plans to help women alleviate difficult menopause symptoms. Contact us today for a consultation. Our caring women's health experts will evaluate your labs and situation to determine the best treatment options for you.
The years after menopause are called postmenopause. During this stage, health risks related to the loss of estrogen rise. These include risks of osteoporosis, heart disease, and urinary issues. Staying healthy through measures like weight bearing exercise, calcium intake, and not smoking can help minimize these risks.
While menopause marks the end of fertility, it can open up a new chapter in a woman's life. Many women find fresh perspectives and relief once annoying menstrual symptoms finish after years of dealing with them. Each person's experience is unique. Working with your healthcare provider can help make menopause a smooth transition.