What is postmenopause?
Postmenopause is the stage of life that begins one year after a woman's final menstrual period. It signals the end of a woman's reproductive years and happens because of changes in hormone levels.
Some key things to know about postmenopause:
- It starts 12 months after a woman's last period. This point is known as the "final menstrual period."
- During this stage, a woman's ovaries stop releasing eggs and producing estrogen and progesterone.
- Symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats usually improve during postmenopause. However, some symptoms may persist.
- Long-term health risks increase, like osteoporosis and heart disease. Regular checkups are important.
- Vaginal dryness and pain with intercourse often worsen after menopause. Over-the-counter lubricants and moisturizers can help. Prescription treatments are available too.
- Mood changes, like depression or irritability, can occur due to shifting hormone levels. Lifestyle changes, therapy, or medication may help.
- Some women feel relieved not to deal with menstrual cycles. Others mourn the loss of fertility or have concerns about aging. It's normal to have mixed emotions.
Here are some common questions about life after menopause:
- Do periods ever return after menopause? Once you haven't had a period for 12 months, menstruation is unlikely to resume. Hormonal conditions can sometimes cause bleeding. Check with a doctor.
- Can you still get pregnant? Pregnancy is very rare but possible in the first year after periods stop. After that, ovulation ends and pregnancy cannot occur.
- What are the symptoms? They vary between women. Hot flashes, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, mood changes, and urinary issues are most common. Symptoms are often less severe after the first couple years.
- How can I manage symptoms? Regular exercise, stress management, lubricants for dryness, and hormone therapy can help. Talk to your healthcare provider about options. Lifestyle changes are encouraged.
As we age gracefully after menopause, risks for certain diseases increase while hormones fluctuate and fertility declines. Know what to expect, communicate with your doctor, and explore safe symptom relief. Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic offers customized hormone therapy and treatment plans to help women thrive during the postmenopausal years. Call today to schedule a consultation.