Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of menstrual cycles. It
occurs when the ovaries stop producing hormones, and there are no monthly periods
for consecutive twelve months. Average age for menopause is 51, however menopause can happen between 45-55 years.
Menopause result from a natural decrease in the production of estrogen and progesterone, which are the reproductive hormones and regulate menstrual cycles. The diagnosis of menopause is based on the absence of menstrual periods for a year.
Pemature/ Early Menopause:
- Hysterectomy with removal of both ovaries
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy in cancer patients
- Premature ovarian failure -in which ovaries fail to produce normal levels of reproductive hormones
- Alcohol & tobacco abuse
- Autoimmune diseases
Symptoms of Menopause
Symptoms of menopause vary from person to person and may include irregular menstrual bleeding, heavy bleeding, excessive sweating during night, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, itching and pain during intercourse, frequent urinary tract infections, mood swings, fatigue, and weight gain. In some cases, complications may include osteoporosis, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and urinary incontinence.
Care During Menopause
No specific medical treatment is necessary, but treatments are aimed at reducing the signs and symptoms.
- Hormone therapy, which involves the administration of estrogen and progesterone, has proved to be an effective therapy for relieving menopausal hot flashes, but used only in selected cases.
- A healthy diet can help ease the symptoms of menopause. Calcium-rich foods such as milk, fish, broccoli, and legumes, red meat, poultry, eggs, leafy green vegetables, nuts, and enriched grain products, fiber from whole-grain breads, cereals, pasta, rice, fresh fruits, and vegetables, and plenty of water are recommended.
- Try stress management.
- Get enough sleep.
- Exercises regularly.
- Take vit D supplement.
- Balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and calcium
- Avoid alcohol, smoking and junk food.
