Menopause is a natural process, a physiological stage in which the ovaries stop producing eggs, menstrual periods end and the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone decreases.
Perimenopause is the transitional period that occurs before menopause. It is a stage that usually begins several years earlier and can last from 2 to 8 years.
During perimenopause, the decrease in hormones can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle, such as shorter or longer periods, heavier or lighter bleeding, and severe and prolonged symptoms similar to those of menopause.
If you are experiencing symptoms or changes in your menstrual cycle and think you may be in perimenopause, make an appointment now. We will perform the appropriate tests and exams, answer your questions, and provide information on how to best manage your health and well-being.
Is menopause a disease?
If menopause occurs between the ages of 48 and 52, it is not a disease.
It is a transition in your life during which you will experience major changes and often symptoms that can be treated, relieved, or avoided.
Depending on the age at which menopause begins, it may be:
- Early menopause if it occurs before the age of 40 (in which case it is a disease and we need to treat it).
- Early menopause if it occurs between the ages of 40 and 45.
- Late menopause if it occurs after the age of 55.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
During menopause, the reduced production of estrogen causes many women to experience symptoms to a greater or lesser degree, although not all women experience the same symptoms, nor with the same intensity or duration.
The most common symptoms are hot flashes (a sudden sensation of intense heat, especially on the face and cleavage), weight gain, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and changes in sex life.
Many of these symptoms can last for several years and affect your quality of life and well-being, as well as posing risks to your bone and cardiovascular health.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment to see your gynecologist. At Women’s, we will perform the appropriate tests and examinations and advise you on how to prevent, relieve or avoid them.
Can I get pregnant during menopause?
During perimenopause, the period before menopause, fertility gradually decreases, but it is still possible to become pregnant.
If you do not want to get pregnant, it is recommended that you use birth control until you have not had a period for one to two years, at which time you will have reached menopause.
- If you are under 50 years of age, use birth control until you have not had a period for 2 years.
- If you are over 50, use birth control until 1 year has passed without a period.
Does menopause affect sexuality?
If menopause affects your mood, it may cause a decrease in your sexual desire.
Vaginal dryness, a common symptom of menopause, can also cause discomfort or pain during intercourse.
If you feel uncomfortable, have discomfort or pain during sex, make an appointment to see your gynecologist.
At Women’s, we have very effective treatments, non-surgical and non-pharmacological solutions, such as vaginal laser treatments that can reduce or eliminate symptoms and improve quality of life.
Menopause Prevention and Treatment
Menopause is a period of risk for chronic diseases (diabetes, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, thyroid disorders), gynecologic (breast and endometrial) and non-gynecologic (lung and colon) cancers, and osteoporosis.
The risks associated with menopause can be prevented and avoided. To do this, you need to start making some lifestyle changes as soon as possible.
- Follow a balanced diet rich in calcium to prevent high cholesterol and bone loss.
- Exercise regularly. It is extremely beneficial for improving blood pressure and preventing diabetes and osteoporosis, controlling cholesterol, and improving mood.
In addition to leading a healthy lifestyle, it is advisable that when you begin to have symptoms, you make an appointment with your gynecologist. This will allow us to know your health status and carry out a good prevention:
- Gynecological examination and pelvic floor evaluation.
- Complete bloodwork
- Mammography
- Breast ultrasound
- Pelvic ultrasound
- DOC at the first visit
With the right advice and care during menopause and especially before, during the transition period, you can lead a full, comfortable, and quality life.
