Menopause is a natural biological process that occurs in women typically in their late 40s to early 50s, although the exact timing can vary. It marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles and fertility.
During menopause, the ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen and progesterone, the hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting fertility. As hormone levels fluctuate and eventually decline, women may experience a variety of symptoms, including:
- Irregular periods: Menstrual cycles may become shorter, longer, lighter, or heavier before ceasing altogether.
- Hot flashes: Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing of the skin.
- Night sweats: Hot flashes that occur during sleep, leading to night sweats and disrupted sleep patterns.
- Vaginal dryness: Decreased oestrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, itching, and discomfort during intercourse.
- Mood swings: Fluctuating hormone levels may contribute to mood swings, irritability, and feelings of anxiety or depression.
- Sleep disturbances: Changes in hormone levels can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.(Insomnia)
- Changes in libido: Some women may experience a decrease in sexual desire or changes in sexual function during menopause.
- A tendency towards brittle bones (Osteoporosis)
- Changes in personality.
- Cardiac problems.
While menopause is a natural and normal part of ageing, the symptoms it brings can vary widely from woman to woman. Some women may experience mild symptoms that don’t significantly impact their quality of life, while others may find their symptoms to be more severe and disruptive. It’s essential for women to be informed about this very important phase of life.
When menopause is over, the woman becomes free from a complete series of physical and psychological discomforts. This allows her to lead a more complete and stable life.
Causes
The causes of irregular and abundant bleeding in women in the menopause stage are due to the absence of ovulation, which causes, as a consequence, an imbalance in the hormonal production of oestrogen and progesterone. This could be excessive oestrogen or not enough progesterone.
In women generally, consumption of alcohol and caffeine in large quantities may also produce irregular bleedings.
Profuse and irregular bleeding may also occur because of fibroids or cysts in the uterus. In some cases, these cysts may be of a cancerous origin, which is why a biopsy or a medical checkup is recommended.
Hot flashes are a result of a decrease in the production of the oestrogen hormone.
To diminish hot flashes, eliminate coffee, cola beverages and alcohol, besides living a quiet life without stress.
References:
Guide to Natural Remedies for Health and Well-Being – Enrique Garza Gutierrez BSc, C.Ht.
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About the Author: Mrs Chima Ejimofor is the lead partner of Infinite Health Consult, and is available for the purchase of FLP high quality nutritional supplements, health talks and wellness seminars. She is based in Lagos, Nigeria. Telephone/WhatsApp: 07033179632, email: infinitehealthconsult@gmail.com
