The End of an Era, and the Beginning of a New One: What is Menopause?
The Basics of Understanding Menopause
Menopause is when a woman’s period stops completely. It is a very normal part of any woman’s life and is in no way a disease or disorder. According to others, it is also called “the change of life.” Once your period stops completely, it also means you can no longer get pregnant. However, menopause doesn’t just happen all at once. It takes years for the body to transition to menopause, and along with it comes many symptoms and irregular periods.
The Transition into Menopause
One of the first changes during the transition into menopause is a woman’s period cycle changing, in addition to hot flashes and other symptoms. Many women begin this transition around the ages of 45 and 55, and this process can last for a few years. Women reach menopause at different ages, but the common age in the United States is 52. The main way you will know you have reached menopause is when you have not had a period or spotting in the span of one year.
There are many symptoms of menopause that one may notice at midlife. Keep in mind some of these symptoms may just be a result of aging rather than related to menopause. Symptoms may include:
Changes in your period: Your periods may be irregular and either last longer or be shorter.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: the most common symptom, and it is when you feel sudden heat, most often in the upper body and face.
Loss of Bladder Control: You may have urges to urinate, or urine may leak when laughing, sneezing, or even when you exercise.
Changes in Vaginal Health and Sexuality: The vagina may become drier, and feelings about sex change overall (sex drive may decrease).
Your Body Just May Feel Different: Your waist could get larger, you might gain fat, your skin may be thinner and drier, and memory problems might occur.
Embracing Menopause
While some of those who are reading are still not old enough to experience menopause, it’s still important to be aware and prepared for that phase of life. For lots of women, menopause may seem like something negative. There is lots of discomfort, challenges, and sense change. However, you should take it as a chance to improve your healthcare needs. This can be physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Remember that menopause doesn't signify the end. It marks the beginning of a new era in life.
Refrences
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/menopause/whatmenopause#:~:text=Menopause%20
describes%20the%20stage%20of,the%20menopausal%20transition%20or%20perimenopause
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