Postmenopause - Hormone Balance Clinic

Postmenopause

Postmenopause refers to the time after a woman's final menstrual period. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years.

The transition into postmenopause is a gradual process that can take several years. It starts with perimenopause, when hormone levels become irregular but a woman still gets her period. Then comes menopause, when a woman has gone 12 months without a period. Once a woman reaches menopause, the postmenopausal period begins.

On average, women reach menopause around age 51. However, it can happen earlier or later. Factors like genetics, autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy treatment, and smoking can influence when menopause starts.

Changes During Postmenopause

The drop in estrogen and progesterone hormones during postmenopause causes many changes in a woman's body. Some of the key changes include:

• Hot flashes - Sudden feelings of intense body heat, flushing, and sweating are common. These can disrupt sleep and daily life.
• Vaginal atrophy - Thinning of vaginal tissue leads to dryness, irritation, and painful intercourse.
• Osteoporosis - Accelerated bone loss causes higher fracture risk. Weight-bearing exercise and calcium can help strengthen bones.
• Heart disease risk - Declining estrogen is linked with unfavorable cholesterol changes. Lifestyle measures like diet and exercise are protective.
• Emotional changes - Insomnia, depression, anxiety, and irritability may occur. Support groups and/or therapy can help.

Managing Postmenopause Symptoms

While some unpleasant signs of menopause cannot be avoided, many bothersome symptoms can be managed through lifestyle adjustments:

• Stay active through cardio, strength training, yoga - this maintains bone and muscle health.
• Follow a nutritious diet high in plants, fiber, and omega-3s; limit saturated fats, salt, and added sugars - this reduces heart disease risk.
• Practice stress reduction techniques such as meditation, counseling, or keeping a gratitude journal - this eases anxiety/depression.
• Use vaginal moisturizers/lubricants during intercourse and urinate before/after to avoid UTIs.
• Try alternative remedies like acupuncture, supplements, or CBD oil to relieve hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings. Effectiveness varies.
• Hormone therapy with low-dose estrogen/progestins relieves symptoms effectively short-term but has some health risks with prolonged use. Discuss with a doctor at Hormone Balance Clinic.

The transition through perimenopause, menopause, and into postmenopause can be challenging. But taking care of physical and mental health with healthy lifestyle choices makes this a smoother process. Connecting with other women going through similar changes provides reassurance too. With time, most women adapt well to postmenopausal life.