Signs of approaching menopause: Recognizing the Symptoms to Watch For
Menopause, a natural transition in a woman's life, can bring about a variety of physical and emotional changes. Here's a guide to help you understand this stage better.
Menopause is marked by irregular periods, hot flashes and night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances, increased irritability, low energy, changes in libido, and hair and nail changes. These symptoms can make daily life challenging, but it's important to remember that every woman's experience is unique, and symptoms may differ based on factors like lifestyle, environment, and genetics.
One of the most common issues during menopause is regulating body temperature and maintaining sleep. Menopause can make it harder to keep up at night, leading to sleep disturbances. However, there are treatments available for insomnia, such as hormone replacement therapy, medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), lifestyle changes, and additional testing to rule out other issues that may be affecting sleep.
Sexual changes during menopause are also common. Hormonal fluctuations can affect sex drive, and vaginal dryness can make sex less pleasant. Lubricants can help make sex more enjoyable during this time. Additionally, medications, hormone therapy, and lifestyle changes are potential options for addressing low libido.
It's crucial to have regular check-ups with your gynecologist during menopause. The most common time for a gynecologist to expect menopause-related symptoms in a patient is during the peri- or perimenopause phase, which typically begins in the late 40s to around age 50-51, when hormone levels start fluctuating and symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular menstruation begin to appear. The average age of natural menopause is about 51 years, but menopause can occur earlier or later.
Regular pap tests and mammograms are even more important as you enter menopause due to an increased risk for certain cancers. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms starting at 45 for those with an average risk of breast cancer and every 2 years after age 54. For cervical cancer screening, people between 25 and 65 are advised to get a combined Pap and HPV test every 5 years or a Pap test only every 3 years.
Interestingly, research shows that Black women are more likely to experience hot flashes and night sweats during menopause, while white women are more likely to experience vaginal dryness.
Remember, every woman's experience of menopause is unique. If you're experiencing symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional to discuss your options and develop a personalised plan for managing this transition.
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