Menopause is a significant stage in a woman's life, and everyone will have their own unique experience with it, which will affect everyone differently.
You've probably heard the terms peri-menopausal, menopause, post-menopausal, and others that describe the menopausal journey you're about to embark on, but what exactly do they mean? What age and typical symptoms are associated with these 'phases' of menopause?
We'll go over and explain the menopause timeline so you know what to expect and where you might be in the 'menopause' cycle. This should only be used as a guideline because menopause is as individual as your fingerprint, and everyone will experience it in their own way.
Menopause is part of a normal process for women. Literally, the term means the end of menstrual periods, but in general usage, it describes the transition from regular menstrual periods to irregular periods and eventually to a point where the periods stop. Menstrual bleeding stops as the level of oestrogen and progesterone falls to a level when they do not stimulate the lining of the womb (endometrium) to become rich in blood and therefore does not bleed.
It can happen in your 30s or even earlier, and it affects about 5% of the population before the age of 45. The cause of premature menopause will be unknown in 90% of women. Cancer treatments or other surgeries may be among the causes.
Menopause can cause fatigue, lack of motivation, loss of confidence, anxiety, and low self-esteem. You can, however, take steps to help ease some of the typical symptoms. Here are some recommendations:
If you want to talk about your symptoms and what treatments are available to you, then contact your GP for further information.
You can also visit these websites which have a wealth of information on menopause.