Menopause - The Hormone “Roller-coaster”

Menopause, also called climacteric, is the natural biological process through which a woman ceases to menstruate permanently. It’s diagnosed after a woman completes 12 months without a menstrual period. Average age for onset of menopause is 51 years. 

Three most common stages of a typical menopause involve the following:

Peri-menopause- Reduced production of estrogen and progesterone by ovaries. Ovaries are the main source of female hormones. 

Menopause- It is the phase when a woman does not have menstruation for a period of 12 months or longer. 

Post-menopause- It is the time after the menopause identified by a blood test showing very high levels of FSH and low levels of estrogen. 

Hormone Dilemma-

A female body undergoes several hormonal (progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone, leutenizing hormone) changes before, during and after menopause: 

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) test is the key test to determine whether a woman has entered or not into menopause. When ovaries stop producing enough estrogen, FSH levels shoot upwards observed as physical signs like nausea, back pain and dry itchy skin. High FSH levels but with irregular menses is sign of premature ovarian failure. Estrogen levels fluctuate due excessive exercise and low body fat but low estrogen and testosterone levels and high FSH levels without menses for one year can be considered a full-fledged menopause. This typically shows symptoms of vaginal dryness and hot flashes. Since menopause and hypothyroidism share similar symptoms, thyroid tests are also recommended to diagnose suspected menopause cases.

Low levels of estrogen linked with menopause lead to several health problems like;

1. Hot flashes: Feeling of heat on neck and face.

2. Osteoporosis: Weak bone and loss of bone density.

3. Vaginal problems: Vaginal dryness and constant irritation.

4. Heart problems: Fluctuating blood pressure and cardiovascular conditions.

Menopause - Is the beginning of new phase, enjoy every part of it!