Menopause is a natural aspect of aging, which occurs after the age of 40. On the contrary, some women experience early menopause. Early menopause has several reasons, such as when their ovaries are removed during a hysterectomy, or by damage to their ovaries caused by chemotherapy.
When a female is born, she has around 2 million eggs more or less, that gradually decline. When she reaches the age of puberty, the number of eggs reduces to almost half. At the age of 27, it dramatically declines and again at the age of 37, it reduces to around 25,000. At Menopause, she hardly has 1000 eggs, after which her menstrual cycle comes to an end.
Let’s understand the concept in-depth.
What is menopause?
Menopause begins when a woman’s menstrual cycle stops. Women usually face certain changes, such as irregular periods, the menstrual cycle being shorter or longer than usual, or bleeding being heavier or lighter than normal. If you are going through any of these changes, that signals the end of your reproductive years.
Menopause begins when a woman has not had a period in the last 12 months. She is also no longer able to conceive naturally. It often starts between 45 and 55 years, but it can happen at any time before or beyond that.
If you are facing challenges during menopause, you must consult the best gynaecologist in Ahmedabad. However, some common symptoms, that you can be prepared for, are mentioned later in this blog.
Phases of menopause
Perimenopause- this phase starts a few prior to menopause. Ovaries slowly make less estrogen. This goes on for 1 - 2 years till the menopause phase begins.
Menopause- During this phase, you have stopped getting a period for a year. Your ovaries have ceased creating eggs and making most of their estrogen.
Postmenopause- The years following menopause are known as the postmenopausal years. Hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms normally go away after a few months. The health risks connected with estrogen insufficiency increase as you become older.
Symptoms of menopause
Here are some common symptoms that women face during menopause.
- Vaginal dryness
- Weight gain
- Depression & anxiety
- Reduced libido or sex drive
- Dry skin, mouth, and eyes
- Increased urination
- Sore or tender breasts
- Painful or stiff joints
- Reduced bone mass
- Less full breasts
- Hair thinning or loss
In a nutshell, menopause is a natural process in a woman’s body. Not all women require consultation. However, if you think you need one, you can visit the best gynecologist hospital in Ahmedabad.
