Menopause

This is a phase in a woman’s life when her menstrual periods cease. It may be natural, premature or artificial. It may occur between the ages of 39 and 59, but the average age seems to be around 47. There is a cessation of menstrual periods and symptoms may take place over a one to five years period of time.

Some women experience no symptoms other than lessening of menstrual period flow; greater length of time between periods; then total cessation of menstrual periods.

Others may experience occasional hot flashes (flushing or redness and hot feeling on face and neck) and sweating; sometimes there is a feeling  of being cold followed by a hot flash. Other possible symptoms include nervousness, menstrual disturbances, fatigability, lassitude, depression, irritability, insomnia, palpitation of the heart, numbness and tingling in limbs, urinary frequency and various gastrointestinal disturbances such as gas, constipation or diarrhea.

Menopause is caused by the shrinking of the ovaries so it will not function because of a decrease in estrogen production. Surgical removal of the ovaries will also cause artificial or premature menopause, unless estrogen is replaced by pills or injections. Manopause is a natural aspect of a woman’s life, but uncomfortable symptoms depend on each individual woman. Those who are experiencing severely uncomfortable problems should see a physician for evaluation. The treatment is estrogen therapy prescribed by a doctor if symptoms are severe.

 However, the risks and benefits of taking estrogen should be explained fully so each woman can determine what is best for her.

There have been a lot of myths about menopause over the years, and they have led to many misgivings, undue stress and fear. Sexual function is not compromised, nor is femininity. Some women feel better than ever, and because pregnancy cannot occur, they feel more at ease sexually. Others require or prefer the support of estrogen therapy. But in no way should menstrual cessation (menopause) cause fears or concern about one’s femininity or sexuality.