Menopause: What to Expect

After reaching a certain age, women will experience menopause. While the transitional age can vary from woman to woman, there are changes throughout the body that every woman can expect later in life. Here's what you should know:

What is Menopause?

According to the Office of Women’s Health, menopause refers to a time in a woman’s life where menstrual periods stop permanently and pregnancy is no longer possible. Menopause is confirmed when a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months; the time leading up to this point is referred to as perimenopause.

When Does Menopause Usually Happen?

According to the North American Menopause Society, women will most likely experience menopause between the ages of 40 and 58. However, some women can experience early menopause in their 30s or even late menopause in their 60s. An accurate way to get an estimate as to when a woman will experience menopause is to take note of when her mother or sisters went through it.

Signs and Symptoms

During the transitional period of perimenopause, your ovaries’ production of estrogen and progesterone hormones constantly fluctuates. This irregular change in hormone levels can happen at random, which causes menopausal symptoms.

Although every woman can experience perimenopause and menopause differently, there are a few common symptoms that come along with this transition, including:

• Changes in menstrual cycle
• Hot flashes
• Fatigue
• Night sweats
• Osteoporosis
• Dry skin and hair
• Hair loss
• Vaginal dryness
• Pain or soreness during intercourse
• Reduced sex drive

It is also common to experience the following changes in your mental and emotional health:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Insomnia

While most women do not need to seek treatment for their symptoms, you can still consult your doctor to help you to manage your symptoms and discomfort.

What to Expect After Menopause?

Following menopause, you will no longer have your period or be able to become pregnant. You may continue to experience the following symptoms:

• Low hormone levels
• Menopausal symptoms due to fluctuating estrogen levels
• Vaginal dryness
• Pelvic floor dysfunction

If you experience any vaginal bleeding after menopause, it is advised that you speak with your gynecologist immediately.

Additionally, for those individuals experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, Southwest General’s Physical Therapy Department has specialized and readily available Pelvic Floor Therapy programs that can help. To learn more, call 1-833-797-3422 or visit our website.

Women’s Health Services in Ohio

At Southwest General Medical Group, Inc., We are proud to offer comprehensive and compassionate women's health care services for women through all stages of life. To learn more about our women’s health services or schedule an appointment, visit our website.