Menopause is an extremely natural stage of a woman’s lifecycle, but, it can bring out several hormonal changes which may cause a range of symptoms such as sudden weight gain, skin problems and mood swings. Menopause mostly occurs when women stop ovulating and their menstrual cycles end, usually during their 40s and 50s. And, most women experience sudden weight gain around this transition period. Along with this, there are many other facts that are unknown to the general public.
Besides hormonal changes that occur with menopause, other factors such as ageing, lifestyle, and genetics can also be a cause of these fluctuations during this phase. In such situations, women should be self-aware and make the right decisions. Try and hang out with your friends, laugh, party, and spend quality time with your friends. Avoid self-criticism, and live your life happily than ever. Onlymyhealth editorial team spoke to Dr. Bhavini Shah Balakrishnan, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Masina Hospital, Mumbai, to know about the unknown facts of menopause.
Unknown facts about menopause
Menopause is only considered when you do not have your periods for over 12 months and you should not get anxious due to irregular menstrual cycles which are common in early 40s. You should pay attention on yourself and keep a note of the changes occuring and should also consult a doctor as early as possible. As per Dr. Bhavini, here are 5 unknown facts you should know about menopause:
1. Menopause is not sudden
It is important to know that menopuse is never sudden and its a process. It is a natural process that involves a lot of hormonal and physiological changes as it marks the end of a female’s reproductive years. Perimenopausal period can last from anywhere between 2-8 years.
2. Menopause can lead to osteoporosis
Estrogen, the female hormone helps control bone loss and during menopause (when we lose estrogen), women lose more bone than is replaced. Here comes the role of calcium supplements after the age of 40 years.
Also read: Surprising Health Benefits of Menopause for Women
3. Hot flushes can linger for years
It is feel good to think that hot flushes associated with menopause would come and go in a flash. However, the truth is on an average hot flushes last from anywhere between 6months to 2 years. For some it might even be longer. Numerous studies have showed that yoga with meditation has helped a lot of women overcome episodes of hot flushes in their peri menopausal period and maintain their sanity.
4. Most people experience symptoms
Menopause is not an illness, but the hormonal changes that occur can trigger symptoms like Hot flashes, night sweats, difficulty sleeping, vaginal dryness, reduced libido and severe mood changes.These can range from mild to severe, leading to discomfort and distress.
5. Treatment is available
Treatment for all symptoms experienced during perimenopause and menopause is available. However, minor but permanent changes in your lifestyle play a vital role in dealing with these symptoms effectively.
Also read: Going Through Menopause? Psychiatrist Tips To Maintain Mental Stability During This Phase
Menopause management tips without medication
According to Dr. Bhavini, here are some tips to manage menopause effectively without the need of medication
- Regular exercise
- Join a relaxation or yoga class
- Keep a diary on the kitchen wall with all upcoming events on it
- Wherever possible, finding a balance between responsibilities and personal interests
- Stay in touch with friends and family
- Share your experiences about menopause with others facing similar issues
- Seek help if you are concerned about memory loss, anxiety or depression or any other issues