Postmenopause

What is postmenopause?

Postmenopause refers to the time after a woman's final menstrual period. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and is diagnosed after 12 months of no menstrual cycles.

During perimenopause, which can last up to 10 years before postmenopause, a woman may experience irregular periods and symptoms like hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and mood changes from shifting hormone levels. But after postmenopause sets in, periods have stopped completely.

Key Changes After Postmenopause

• With no more ovarian follicles, estrogen and progesterone levels are very low. This can cause symptoms like vaginal dryness, decreased bone density, heart disease risk, and changes in cholesterol levels.


• FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) levels increase during postmenopause but have minimal effect with very low estrogen/progesterone.


• Risk of osteoporosis increases with the rapid bone loss that occurs in the first few years after postmenopause. Weight-bearing exercise and calcium/vitamin D supplementation can help slow bone loss.


• Cardiovascular disease risk increases after menopause as the heart's vasodilation benefits from estrogen decrease. Managing blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body weight becomes very important.


• Body fat distribution tends to shift from the hips/thighs to the abdomen. This increases metabolic syndrome risk. Staying active with muscle-strengthening and aerobic activity can help manage weight/body fat.

Seeking Treatment

While most women transition through menopause without needing treatment, some experience severe symptoms interfering with sleep, mood, sexual health, and quality of life. Seeking care from healthcare providers like Vitality Hormone Clinic can help determine if hormone therapy or other treatments might provide relief. Their compassionate providers partner with patients on customized treatment plans to manage menopausal symptoms and promote long-term health after reproductive years.

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