What is Menopause?

The 3 key stages of menopause: Perimenopause is the transition period before menopause when a woman's body begins to make less estrogen. This phase can last for several years and typically starts in a woman's 40s but can begin in her 30s or even earlier. Some women may experience fluctuating hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone. The symptoms may be an irregular menstrual cycle, hot flashes, anxiety, and insomnia to name a few. This period can las several years until menopause is reached.

Menopause is defined when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months and marks the end of the reproductive years. there is a significant decrease in estrogen and progesterone by the oaries and usuallly occurs between 41 - 55 with the average age of 51 years of age. Some of the symptoms experienced are similar to Periomenopause however they can be more extreme with more frequent night sweats, weight gain, anxiety when waking up, foggy mind itchy skin, vaginal dryness and lack of libido and low mood (sometimes experienced as depression).

Postmenopause usually occurs when there are low stable levels of estrogen and progesterone and the intensity of the symptoms experienced during menopause are decreased. Women can still experience sweats and hot flashes, anxiety and sleep interruption and this may continue indefinitely.

To maintain a healthy and balanced life during this period in a womans' life it is recommended having regular checkups with a qualified menopause specialist. Including blood tests, heart and bone tests. As menopause can affect the heart and bone density.