Health Information: Menopause

In This Section:

Going through “the change” is different for women today than it was for our grandmothers. We live in an era when menopause is better understood than ever before and we have the advantage of being able to talk openly about it.

Menopause eventually happens to all women, but it affects each woman uniquely. Some of the changes women experience are directly related to menopause, but other changes may be related to aging or illness. Because midlife is often a time when illness or disease shows up, women should understand that any changes in health signal the need for a medical evaluation.

Menopause terminology

Premature menopause is menopause that occurs before age 40.
Menopause is the end of menstruation. It is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a period or when the ovaries are removed or damaged.
Perimenopause is the transitional time of up to six years or more immediately prior to the natural menopause when changes begin, plus one year after menopause.
Postmenopause is all the years beyond menopause.
Induced menopause is immediate menopause occurring when you have a procedure to remove ovaries or when you begin medical treatment that causes the ovaries to stop functioning.

Symptoms of “the change”

Hot flashes
Day sweats
Night sweats
Vaginal dryness
Uncomfortable intercourse

Other symptoms that are commonly attributed to “normal” aging include:
Insomnia, headaches, backaches, forgetfulness, urinary difficulties, changes in sex drive, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, depression and mood swings.

Treating the symptoms

Avoid hot flash triggers (hot, spicy food; warm rooms, use of hair dryer; strong emotions, alcohol and caffeine). Keep cool by dressing in layers that can be removed.
Reduce stress by using relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, biofeedback, visualization, massage or a leisurely bath.
Try paced respiration (deep, slow abdominal breathing) when a hot flash is starting.
Exercise regularly.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet.

A word about hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may decrease some of these “pesky” indicators of menopause. However, you and your health care provider should carefully discuss the risks and benefits for you before you decide to begin a hormone therapy. Risks and benefits depend on your personal health and family history of cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis.