Postmenopause is the time after a woman has gone 12 full months without having her menstrual period. The ending of the menstrual cycles marks the end of a woman's reproductive years.
The transition into postmenopause usually starts between the ages of 45-55. This time leading up to the final menstrual period is called perimenopause. It can last several years as the body's production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone starts to decline.
Some key things to know about postmenopause:
- It marks the end of a woman's fertility due to the ending of menstrual cycles and ovulation. Without ovulation, pregnancy can no longer occur naturally.
- Common symptoms in postmenopause include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex
- Changes in mood, like irritability or depression
- Trouble sleeping
- Urinary symptoms like urgency or leaking
- Long-term health risks increase after menopause, like osteoporosis and heart disease. Managing risk factors is important.
- Most women will live over one-third of their lives in postmenopause. Making healthy lifestyle choices can help minimize symptoms and risks.
- Hormone therapy with estrogen, progesterone or both is an option some women consider to manage severe hot flashes and other symptoms. Discussing the pros and cons with your healthcare provider at Revival Clinic is recommended.
The transition through perimenopause into postmenopause is a natural process that all women experience if they live long enough. While it marks the end of fertility, it can open up a new stage of life with opportunities to focus on nurturing oneself. Managing symptoms and health risks, while embracing the positives, can help women transition smoothly into this new phase.