Living through the menopause

What is menopause?

It is the period in a woman’s life that corresponds to a discontinuation of periods for at least one year.

What is pre-menopause?

This is the transition period before menopause that corresponds to years of cycle irregularity before menopause. Its duration is very variable; on average it lasts 5 to 7 years.

Can I avoid menopause?

No. Because menopause is not a disease, but a natural stage in a woman’s life.

At what age does menopause occur?

The average menopausal age is 51 years, but varies from one woman to another. Therefore, some women go through menopause at 40 years of age, while others do not go through it until 55 years of age, or even later.

Are there factors that influence menopausal age?

Yes In particular, it is known that smoking may advance the appearance of menopause by two years. Heredity also plays an important role, and very often mother and daughter go through menopause at a very similar age. Some treatments may cause artificial or early menopause.

What causes menopause?

It is related to the depletion of ova stored in the ovaries, responsible for the decrease in, and then the disappearance of ovarian hormone secretion, which results in the discontinuation of periods.

I have had very irregular cycles for a long time. Does this mean I am in menopause?

No But, after a certain age, this may mean that you have entered pre-menopause. Consult your doctor. Mark the dates of your periods on a calendar, as well as any unusual events (for example: heavy periods, bleeding between periods, breast pain, changes in mood, etc.) that occur during your hormonal cycle. This will allow your doctor, during your next visit, to identify your hormonal situation.

What are the signs of menopause?

Following hormonal changes, you may experience physical and/or psychological signs, such as hot flushes (during the day and night), vaginal dryness, diffuse pain, mood problems (anxiety, irritability), insomnia, fatigue, itching skin, headaches, etc. These signs vary greatly from one woman to another. In certain women, they are practically non-existent, while in others they are very bothersome, or even intolerable. They can last a few months to a few years, but in all cases, they are not dangerous for your health.

Can I prevent hot flushes?

If hot flushes are not particularly uncomfortable, treatment is not needed. If the opposite is the case, your doctor will prescribe you a treatment; there are several types, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Before doing so, your doctor will perform exams (smear, mammogram, blood panel, etc.) to eliminate any contraindications.

I am menopausal and I am not taking any hormone replacement therapies. Should I continue to have check-ups?

Yes It is very important that you continue to be monitored. Your doctor will inform you how often you need consultations and follow-up exams (smears, mammogram, blood panel to check your cholesterol and sugar levels, bone density).