Menopause
The menopause transition typically occurs in midlife for women. This is a time of significant physical, hormonal and psychological changes. The ovaries stop functioning; ovulation ceases (menstrual bleeding stops) and there is a major decline in circulating oestrogen levels.
The average age of the final menstrual period (menopause) is 51 but menopausal symptoms commonly start several years before the menopause. When symptoms are accompanied by changes to menstrual cycle length, this is known as perimenopause.
Symptoms usually peak not long after menopause and then slowly dissipate with time. The average duration of symptoms is five to ten years.
Common menopausal symptoms include:
- Vaginal dryness & discomfort
- Urinary urgency
- Hot flashes, night sweats
- Disrupted sleep
- Increased anxiety, irritability
- Low mood
- Low libido
- Pain in joints
- Brain fog
If symptoms are bothersome, there are effective treatments available. Treatment can be started at any stage of the menopause transition, not necessarily after the final period.
Menopause hormone therapy is the most effective treatment for symptoms. There are additional benefits for bone health. There is a small increased risk of breast cancer with menopause hormone therapy use, however, for many women, this small risk is offset by the benefits to symptom control and bone health. For women who are deemed not suitable or who choose not to use hormone therapy, there are several non-hormonal treatments available.
References:
- Australasian Menopause Society
https://www.menopause.org.au/
- Jean Hailes Foundation
https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/
- Royal Women’s Hospital
https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/menopause-information
- Menopause Alliance Australia
https://menopausealliance.au/