Postmenopause is the time in a woman's life after she has gone 12 months without a menstrual period. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years.
The transition into postmenopause usually begins between the ages of 45-55. This time period before the final menstrual period is known as perimenopause. It can last several years as the ovaries start making less estrogen.
Once a woman has gone a full year without a period, she has reached postmenopause. At this stage, her ovaries have stopped releasing eggs and producing most of their estrogen. This marks the end of her fertility.
Some key changes that happen in postmenopause include:
- Hot flashes - Sudden feelings of warmth in the face, neck and chest that can cause sweating and flushing of the skin. These are very common during postmenopause.
- Vaginal dryness - Lower estrogen levels can cause thinner, drier vaginal tissues. This can lead to pain during sexual activity. Using lubricant can help ease discomfort.
- Mood changes - Shifting hormone levels can contribute to mood swings, anxiety, irritability and depression for some women. Managing stress and lifestyle changes can help.
- Osteoporosis risk - Lower estrogen puts postmenopausal women at higher risk for losing bone density and developing osteoporosis. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D can promote bone health.
When to see a doctor: Contact your healthcare provider if postmenopause symptoms like hot flashes or vaginal dryness start severely impacting sleep and quality of life.
Hormone therapy may provide relief.
The medical experts at
Hormone Health Institute offer customized
hormone therapy plans to help women manage postmenopause symptoms. Their comprehensive evaluations identify hormone imbalances related to perimenopause and postmenopause. Based on your lab results and symptoms, their physicians create personalized treatment regimens including
bioidentical hormones to restore optimal hormone levels.
Managing this transition smoothly allows women to live full, active lives in their postmenopausal years. Reach out today to learn more about how Hormone Health Institute' experts can help you thrive in postmenopause.