Menopause is a natural process leading to the end of menstruation. Although San Antonio menopause is not a health problem, various symptoms due to hormone changes associated with this stage of a woman’s life can cause discomfort. You can expect to experience menopausal symptoms at around age 40. However, various factors determine how early or late you enter menopause. For example, undergoing various procedures like a hysterectomy will cause early menopause.
The effects of menopause
Every woman has a unique menopause experience. Menopausal symptoms usually begin a few years before the end of menstruation. However, your lifestyle choices will determine when you experience symptoms and their severity. Menopausal symptoms can negatively impact the quality of your life. Collaborating with your primary care provider can help you find effective solutions to these symptoms. Menstruation should be a period of relief from menstruation or birth control. The right treatment will ensure you have a fully active life throughout the transition. Your doctor will recommend that you maintain a healthy lifestyle to boost your overall health and reduce the effects of menopause.
What to expect during menopause
Menopause involves physical and psychological alterations that cause various symptoms. The changes that can start before the end of your period include the following:
- Decreased fertility
As you approach your 40s, you will notice irregular menstrual cycles. These irregularities can cause difficulties in getting pregnant. Moreover, the decreasing estrogen levels in perimenopause can limit your chances of getting pregnant.
Irregular menstruation
One of the initial signs of menopause is getting your periods less frequently. If you are approaching menopausal age and notice that you keep skipping your periods, you should expect to lose them soon. Irregularities in your period also affect how heavy or light your period is when you get them. It will help to inform your doctor about any menstrual concerns because this could also be a sign of pregnancy or an underlying health issue.
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort
Atrophic vaginitis, a condition that causes vaginal thinning, inflammation, dryness, itching, and discomfort, is common during perimenopause and can persist for years after menopause. This condition causes discomfort during vaginal intercourse. It would help if you talked to your doctor about this problem to prevent potential risks like infection due to skin breaking.
- Hot flashes
This sign involves a sudden feeling of heat in your body. This symptom can start in the upper body and gradually downwards. You may experience sweating and red patches on your skin due to hot flashes.
- Emotional changes.
Hormonal changes and sleep distances can predispose you to psychological problems. You may experience irritability and crying spells during menopause. Contact your healthcare provider if you have concerns about any sleep changes, depression, or anxiety that may be limiting the quality of your life.
There is no cure for menopause. However, your doctor may recommend hormone therapy to help reduce your symptoms. Committing to a healthy lifestyle can guarantee a seamless transition and minimize the impact of menopausal symptoms. Contact Aurora OB/GYN to discuss effective management options for your menopausal symptoms and live an active, healthy life throughout your menopause.