Health Help
When does menopause start and what are the symptoms?
A normal and natural process in all women’s lives, menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing follicles. This leads to lower levels of oestrogen and other hormones. The average age of menopause is 51 years, while peri-menopause (the stage around or near menopause) can start any time from 45 to 55 years. The stage of menopause is usually confirmed when a woman has not had her period for 12 consecutive months.
While some women don’t experience symptoms at all, many peri-menopausal and menopausal women experience a variety of symptoms with varying severities and durations. One of the most common menopausal symptoms is hot flashes, with or without night sweats. Other common menopause symptoms include:
• vaginal dryness
• fatigue
• mood swings
• insomnia or disturbed sleep
• decreased libido
• memory problems
• muscle aches and joint pains
• headaches
• irritability
• anxiety
• urinary frequency
No treatment is needed if a woman going through menopause does not have troubling symptoms. However, if there are unusual or debilitating symptoms that affect your wellbeing, it’s important to see your doctor for a proper evaluation. There are effective treatments that can help manage some of the symptoms, ranging from herbal, natural remedies to hormone replacement therapy. Your doctor can advise which is best for you, as some treatments may not be suitable depending on your medical and family history. Treatment that’s individualised ensures the most effective and safest outcome.
Also, keeping well both physically and mentally goes a long way in successfully managing menopause. Leading a healthy, smoke-free lifestyle, following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting quality sleep and reducing your alcohol intake can help manage symptoms and also lower your risk of cancer and other conditions.
Osler Health International #02-27/02-34 Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Road | 6332 2727 #B1-27, The Star Vista, 1 Vista Exchange Green | 6339 2727 osler-health.com