Menopause is the natural end of menstrual cycles, usually between 45 and 55. It's not a disease — it's a shift in hormones that can cause hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, sleep trouble, vaginal dryness and changes in libido. Perimenopause can start years earlier with irregular periods and worsening symptoms. Knowing what's normal helps you pick the right help.
Symptoms vary a lot. Hot flashes may last months or years. Sleep loss from night sweats often makes mood and memory worse. Vaginal tissues thin and dry, making sex uncomfortable. Bone density drops faster after menopause, raising fracture risk. Some people also notice weight gain around the belly and changes in cholesterol and blood pressure.
Hormone therapy (HRT) with estrogen, sometimes plus progesterone, remains the most effective way to stop hot flashes and protect bone. Short-term HRT works well for severe symptoms, but risks depend on age, timing, and health. If you still have a uterus, your doctor will usually add progesterone to reduce the risk of uterine cancer. Low-dose local vaginal estrogen treats dryness with minimal systemic effects.
Not everyone wants or can take hormones. Non-hormonal drugs include certain antidepressants (like venlafaxine or low-dose paroxetine), gabapentin, and clonidine — they can cut hot flashes for some people. Ospemifene helps painful sex, and bisphosphonates or SERMs are options to protect bone if needed. Talk to your clinician about benefits, side effects and drug interactions.
Small changes make daily life easier. Dress in layers and use breathable fabrics. Keep a fan and cold drink nearby. Avoid spicy foods, hot drinks, caffeine and alcohol before bed. For sleep, stick to a routine, cool the bedroom and limit late screens. Use water-based lubricants or vaginal moisturizers for dryness; avoid scented products that irritate.
Protect bones with weight-bearing exercise, balance training and smoking cessation. Aim for calcium and vitamin D through diet and supplements when advised. Manage mood with counseling, mindfulness, regular exercise and social support. If you have hot flashes that hit at work, try paced breathing or a discreet cooling spray.
Ask about monitoring while on treatment. Regular checks can include blood pressure, cholesterol, bone density scans and breast exams. If you start HRT, review it every year and stop or change approach if risks rise. For mental health, therapy and support groups help with mood shifts and changes. Sexual concerns are common—your provider can suggest pelvic therapy, topical treatments or referral to a specialist.
When to see a doctor? If symptoms interfere with daily life, if periods stop before age 40, or if you have heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or signs of other conditions, get evaluated. Your provider can run tests, review your meds, and personalize a plan that fits your health, preferences and risk profile.
Menopause is a phase that many manage well with the right mix of medical care and lifestyle changes. You don't have to guess — ask your healthcare team for options that fit your life and goals.
As a blogger, I recently came across an interesting connection between eye swelling and menopause. It turns out that hormonal changes during menopause can lead to an increase in fluid retention, which may cause swelling around the eyes. Additionally, a decrease in collagen production during this time can make the skin around our eyes more delicate and prone to puffiness. It's important for women going through menopause to be aware of this potential issue and take steps to reduce eye swelling, such as getting enough sleep, reducing sodium intake, and staying hydrated. Overall, understanding this link between eye swelling and menopause can help us better manage our eye health during this transitional period in our lives.
Callum Laird | Apr, 29 2023 Read More