Menopause: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options

Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, typically occurring between 45-55 years. It’s officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period.

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Common Symptoms

Physical Changes

• Hot flashes (sudden heat waves)
• Night sweats & sleep disturbances
• Vaginal dryness & pain during sex
• Urinary incontinence
• Weight gain (especially abdominal)

Emotional/Mental Effects

• Mood swings & irritability
• Anxiety or depression
• Memory lapses (“brain fog”)

3 Stages of Menopause

1. Perimenopause (2-10 years before menopause)
   • Irregular periods begin
   • Symptoms first appear
2. Menopause (12+ months without periods)
   • Ovaries stop releasing eggs
3. Postmenopause
   • Symptoms may ease
   • Higher osteoporosis/heart disease risk

Causes & Risk Factors

• Natural aging (ovarian function decline)
• Hysterectomy/oophorectomy (surgical menopause)
• Chemotherapy/radiation
• Early menopause (before 40) linked to:
  • Smoking
  • Family history
  • Autoimmune diseases

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Treatment Approaches

1. Hormone Therapy (HT)

• Estrogen + progesterone (for women with uterus)
• Estrogen-only (after hysterectomy)
• Benefits: Reduces hot flashes, prevents bone loss
• Risks: Slight increase in breast cancer/stroke (lowest effective dose recommended)

2. Non-Hormonal Options

• SSRIs (e.g., paroxetine for hot flashes)
• Gabapentin (nerve pain medication)
• Vaginal moisturizers (for dryness)

3. Lifestyle Management

• Cooling strategies: Layer clothing, use fans
• Exercise: Weight-bearing + yoga
• Diet: Calcium/Vitamin D, phytoestrogens (soy, flaxseeds)
• Stress reduction: Meditation, CBT

Complications to Monitor

• Osteoporosis (bone density scans recommended)
• Cardiovascular disease (cholesterol checks)
• Metabolic changes (monitor blood sugar)

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When to Seek Help

• Symptoms disrupt daily life
• Unusual bleeding post-menopause
• Severe depression/anxiety

Note: For personalized medical advice, always consult a healthcare professional.