Postmenopause is the stage in a woman's life that begins one year after her last menstrual period. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and is part of the normal aging process.
Some key changes that occur during postmenopause:
- Ovarian function declines. The ovaries stop producing eggs and secretion of estrogen and progesterone decreases dramatically. This leads to hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and other symptoms.
- Fertility ends. Postmenopause means a woman can no longer get pregnant naturally.
- Bone loss accelerates. Lower estrogen levels lead to accelerated bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Building bone mass before menopause through exercise, calcium, and vitamin D can help counteract this.
When does postmenopause begin?
Postmenopause starts 12 full months after a woman's last period. The year after your final menstrual cycle is when you've officially reached postmenopause.
What are the signs of postmenopause?
The most common signs and symptoms are:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort
- Irregular periods leading up to menopause
- Difficulty sleeping
- Mood changes like depression or anxiety
- Fatigue
- Urinary symptoms like infections
- Thinning hair and dry skin
Managing postmenopause symptoms
While some symptoms will resolve on their own over time, there are ways to get relief:
- Hormone therapy - Estrogen alone or with progesterone can help manage hot flashes and vaginal symptoms. The Hormone Hub offers bioidentical hormone replacement tailored to your needs.
- Staying active with cardio and strength training to reduce bone loss
- Using vaginal moisturizers and lubricants for comfort
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques
- Avoiding triggers like hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol
- Layering clothing to stay cool during hot flashes
The transition to postmenopause is a natural biological process. With a healthy lifestyle and proper medical care, women can manage symptoms and continue to thrive in the years beyond menopause. Speak to your doctor about any concerns and visit The Hormone Hub for individualized care during this stage of life.