I have been a naturopathic doctor in Vancouver, WA since 2015, and in that time I have talked with hundreds of women going through menopause or perimenopause. When I first meet a woman in the throes of menopause, the most common complaint is that she just doesn’t feel like herself. This can often be mentally, physically, emotionally, or all of the above. She feels like a stranger in her own skin and is flabbergasted that all of these unwanted changes can all happen at the same time! Let’s learn more about what to prepare for and potentially expect during the menopausal process.
What is menopause?
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs and the levels of hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, decline significantly. Menopause usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, but it can occur earlier or later in some cases.
During menopause, a woman’s menstrual periods become irregular and eventually stop altogether. This transition period is known as perimenopause, which can last several years before menopause is reached.
The exact cause of menopause is still not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Some medical procedures, such as the removal of the ovaries or certain cancer treatments, can also induce menopause.
Understanding menopause is important, as it is a natural part of a woman’s life and can have significant physical and emotional effects.
Common symptoms of menopause
Menopause is associated with a wide range of symptoms, which can vary in severity and duration for each woman. Some of the most common symptoms include:
Hot flashes: sudden feelings of intense heat, usually accompanied by sweating and flushing of the face and upper body.
Night sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep, which can disrupt sleep patterns.
Irregular periods: Menstrual cycles become irregular, with longer or shorter intervals between periods.
Vaginal dryness: Decreased lubrication in the vagina, leading to discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Mood swings: Fluctuations in mood, including irritability, anxiety, and depression.
Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, often due to night sweats or other menopause-related symptoms.
Weight gain: Many women experience weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, during menopause.
Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy, which can be attributed to hormonal changes and sleep disturbances.
It’s important to note that not all women will experience all of these symptoms, and their severity can vary. Some women may have mild symptoms that are easily manageable, while others may experience more severe symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life.
Physical changes during menopause
In addition to the common symptoms mentioned earlier, menopause can also bring about various physical changes in a woman’s body. These changes can include:
Changes in the skin: Skin may become drier and less elastic, leading to wrinkles and sagging.
Hair changes: Hair may become thinner, drier, or more brittle.
Bone density loss: Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density, so its decline during menopause can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Body shape fluctations: Some women may notice an increase in abdominal fat and a loss of muscle mass.
Joint pain: Hormones play a role in nourishing and lubricating joint spaces, when we lose these hormones our joints can become more creaky, painful, and sometimes even swollen.
It’s important for women going through menopause to take care of their overall health and well-being. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting regular check-ups to monitor any potential health concerns.
Emotional and psychological symptoms
Menopause is not just a physical transition but also an emotional and psychological one. The hormonal changes that occur during menopause can have a significant impact on a woman’s mood and emotions. Some common emotional and psychological symptoms of menopause include:
Mood swings: Women may experience sudden shifts in mood, ranging from irritability and anger to sadness and anxiety.
Anxiety and depression: Some women may develop symptoms of anxiety and depression during menopause.
Memory problems: Many women report experiencing memory lapses or difficulty concentrating during menopause.
Decreased libido: Fluctuations in hormone levels can lead to a decreased interest in sexual activity.
Irritability and emotional sensitivity: Women may find themselves more easily agitated or sensitive to certain situations.
It’s important for women experiencing these symptoms to seek support from their healthcare provider or a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and support in managing these emotional and psychological changes.
Managing menopause symptoms
While menopause symptoms can be challenging, there are various strategies and treatments available to help manage them. It’s important for each woman to find what works best for her and to consult with her healthcare provider for personalized advice. Some common approaches to managing menopause symptoms include:
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): This involves taking medications that contain estrogen and progesterone to alleviate symptoms. HRT can be effective but should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help alleviate menopause symptoms. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress levels, and getting enough sleep.
Alternative therapies: Some women find relief from menopause symptoms through alternative therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and herbal supplements. It’s important to discuss these options with a healthcare provider before trying them.
Medications: There are medications available, such as antidepressants, that can sometimes help manage specific symptoms like mood swings or hot flashes. These can be used temporarily to help get through this rocky transition.
Support and self-care: Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups can be beneficial during this period of change. Practicing self-care activities, such as engaging in hobbies, relaxation techniques, or self-reflection, can also help manage menopause symptoms.
It’s important to remember that menopause is a natural part of life, and each woman’s experience may be different. With the right support and management strategies, women can navigate this transition with greater ease and maintain their overall well-being.
