The end of a woman’s menstrual cycle is signalled by the menopause, a natural biological process. Menstrual periods have been absent for at least a year before there is a symptom. Every woman will experience menopause at some point, usually between the ages of 45 and 55.
This transition can be accompanied by various symptoms and physical changes that can be challenging for women to manage. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatment options of menopause, including how to address issues such as saggy skin and pregnancy stretch marks.
Symptoms of Menopause
Menopause symptoms differ from woman to woman. While some women may have few symptoms, others might have many. Menopause’s most typical signs and symptoms include:
Hot Flashes
A sudden feeling of warmth or heat spreads over the body, often accompanied by sweating and a rapid heartbeat.
Night Sweats
Hot flashes occur during the night, causing disrupted sleep and daytime fatigue.
Vaginal Dryness
A lack of moisture in the vaginal area causes discomfort or pain during intercourse.
Mood Swings
Emotional swings include irritation, anxiety, or depression.
Insomnia
Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
Fatigue
A state of being worn out or exhausted that is not alleviated by rest.
Weight Gain
A gradual increase in body weight can be challenging to manage.
Loss Of Libido
Lack of sexual desire or interest.
Causes of Menopause
The cause can be a natural decline in oestrogen and progesterone in the ovaries. These hormones play a vital role in the reproductive system, and their decline leads to a cessation of menstruation and the onset of menopause. There are more causes of menopause, including:
Hysterectomy
The surgical removal of the uterus causes menopause to occur earlier than normal.
Chemotherapy
Cancer treatment can cause menopause as a side effect.
Radiation therapy
Cancer treatment can cause menopause as a side effect.
Premature ovarian failure
Before age 40, the early loss of ovarian function begins.
Treatment Options for Menopause
There are several menopausal treatment options available for managing the symptoms of menopause. These include:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Use oestrogen or progesterone to replenish hormones that the ovaries are no longer producing.
Non-Hormonal Treatments
Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, and blood pressure medication can help alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause.
Natural Remedies
Herbal supplements, acupuncture, and yoga can help reduce symptoms and improve overall health.
Lifestyle changes
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction techniques can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Addressing Issues such as saggy skin and pregnancy stretch marks
During menopause, changes in hormone levels can cause various physical changes, including saggy skin and pregnancy stretch marks.
Saggy Skin
Skin that lacks collagen and elastin can become thin, sagging, and less elastic. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial, and this includes getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting lots of water. A moisturiser with SPF protection can also aid in preventing further deterioration of the skin.
Pregnancy Stretch Marks
Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches rapidly, causing small tears in the skin’s collagen fibres. Using a moisturiser with ingredients like cocoa butter or vitamin E can also help improve the appearance of stretch marks. In more severe cases, treatments such as laser therapy or microneedling may be necessary to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
In Conclusion
Menopause is a natural transition that every woman will experience. If you need help managing it, get a menopause treatment at Orchard Clinic. With years of experience in the medical industry, they can help you go through this change and become more confident with your life.
