I am in menopause and now what to expect?

Detecting the changes, you are going through, and understanding what alleviates and what increases your symptoms, helps in menopause

Menopause is when the last menstrual period occurs, and is confirmed after 12 consecutive months of amenorrhea (absence of menstruation). During the 12 months is when the first signs and symptoms appear.

The main reason for the absence of menstruation is the lack of production of the estrogen hormone that is produced by the ovaries, but which at this stage is no longer produced. Women cease to be fertile.

Menopause usually happens between 45 and 55 years of age, but it can also happen before or after this age range and when it happens earlier it can be related to the loss of the ovaries' ability to produce hormones early for several reasons.

The main symptoms of menopause

The experience of going through menopause may vary from woman to woman, but the most reported signs and symptoms are hot flashes, insomnia, palpitations, decreased libido and ability to concentrate, vaginal dryness that causes pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, mood changes (nervousness, irritation, deep sadness or even depression) and irregular flow and amenorrhea. The symptoms are similar to those of PMS except that they are accentuated and prolonged.

The symptoms can present together or isolated, but to have a definitive diagnosis it is advisable to consult a gynecologist who will be able to carry out the indicated tests.

How to make menopause smoother

Estrogen hormone therapy is the recommended treatment for the relief of menopausal symptoms, but risks such as breast cancer and stroke are described. Some natural tips are:

• Do not abuse spices and spicy foods, or coffee and alcohol.
• Get out in the sun to boost your vitamin D levels and consume foods rich in calcium.
• Exercise, practice yoga and meditation to relieve stress.
• Wear light clothing to relieve heat.

Living with the changes

It is not easy to deal with all these changes, so it is necessary to count on the support of family members, they must understand that this is a period of transition and deep hormonal fluctuations and requires special care and a lot of patience.

To go through a less turbulent menopause it is advisable to have multidisciplinary assistance with a gynecologist, nutritionist and psychologist.

Women need to be informed about the changes they are going through, and understand what alleviates and what increases the symptoms. Accept the process and adhere to the proposed treatments.