Postmenopause refers to the time after a woman's final menstrual period. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years.
The transition into postmenopause usually occurs between the ages of 45-55. As a woman approaches menopause, her ovaries begin to produce less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This leads to changes in her monthly menstrual cycles, such as cycles becoming less frequent or lighter.
Once a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period, she has reached menopause and entered the postmenopausal phase. This stage brings its own set of changes and health considerations:
- The postmenopausal decline in estrogen often causes uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances. These usually improve over time.
- Lower estrogen after menopause is associated with changes like bone loss. To keep bones strong, women are advised to get enough calcium and vitamin D. Weight-bearing exercise can also help.
- Heart disease risk increases after menopause. Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle is important.
- There's a greater risk of conditions like urinary tract infections and urinary incontinence. Staying hydrated and practicing Kegel exercises can help manage these.
The average woman spends more than one-third of her life in postmenopause. So it's crucial to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider and
get recommended health screenings like mammograms, bone density tests etc.
Lifestyle measures like eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and managing stress are vital for the postmenopausal period and beyond. Consider speaking to your doctor about professional guidance and solutions like
hormone therapy to help ease this transition.
At Renew Hormone Clinic,
our compassionate physicians specialize in menopausal and postmenopausal care. We take a personalized approach to address your unique symptoms and needs during this stage of life. Our cutting-edge hormone therapies and treatments can help you continue thriving in the years beyond menopause. Contact us today for a consultation!
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