Women and Menopause

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Sometime during her life, a woman will go through menopause. Normally it will happen when she is between 50 and 54, but it can occur when she's younger or older. Menopause means that a woman's ovaries are shutting down and will stop producing estrogen and progesterone. Menstruation will diminish, and will stop altogether when the ovaries quit functioning.

Menopause is something that happens to all women and is a natural part of the aging process. If a woman needs to have her ovaries removed for some reason, she will experience premature menopause. If the uterus is removed and the ovaries are left in place there will be no symptoms of menopause since it is the ovaries and the lack of progesterone and estrogen that are the cause of menopause.

There are many symptoms of menopause that a woman may not at first be aware of. As the ovaries produce less and less progesterone and estrogen the menstrual cycle will be affected. The menstrual cycle will become unpredictable as one month the flow is heavy and the next month the flow may be only a day or two of spotting.

Here are some signals to watch for: (1) hot flashes (2) crankiness (3) unusual sweating (4) sleep disturbance (5) vaginal dryness, often leading to uncomfortable sex and/ or urination (6) mood swings that may include depression and/ or anger (7) unwanted hair on the face, chest, arms, and stomach (8) trouble concentrating and remembering (9) low frustration level within her whole mood.

There are many things that a woman can do to ease the way her body reacts to menopause. One of the best things that a woman can do is to be as well informed about menopause as she can. The more information that a woman has the better she will be able to understand what is happening, therefore not feeling so alone in the changes that are taking place in her body.

Eating well-balanced meals and keeping up with her exercise can be among the most positive approaches she can take. Taking charge of her own body, including good nutrition, will help her experience minimal symptoms. She should also consider vitamins and minerals in the form of supplements. Any woman, who has a great deal of difficulty during menopause, may want to consider hormone replacement therapy. It's always vital to stay in touch with her doctor throughout menopause. That way any other changes not related to menopause won't be missed. Some women may want to seek out a support group. It's always helpful to have contact with people experiencing the same life conditions as you.

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