Menopause is the transitional period in a woman's life when her ovaries start producing less of the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. Menopause is declared when a woman ceases to have a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, marking the end of her reproductive years. A woman who has her ovaries surgically removed immediately enters menopause.
Treating Common Symptoms and Challenges
Eventually, symptoms of menopause like hot flashes and mood swings will likely abate. However, for those who find them difficult to manage, there are treatments and strategies that offer some relief. These typically center on lifestyle changes such as breathing exercises, exercise routines, and the use of cooling devices for hot flashes. In some cases, short term use of nonprescription remedies like black cohosh and isoflavones from soy foods or supplements may help. Hormone therapy and non-hormonal medications are available by prescription for severe and disruptive symptoms.
Regular exercise, maintaining a cool core body temperature—by drinking ice water or placing a cold washcloth around the neck—and paced breathing (six to eight breaths per minute, for 15 minutes, twice a day at the onset of hot flashes) can be effective strategies for some women who experience hot flashes.
Most women eventually stop having hot flashes, but how long they last varies widely. The majority of women will experience hot flashes for less than 10 years.
Yes; many women experience weight gain during perimenopause or when they are post-menopausal (or both). A loss of muscle mass, an aging metabolism, increased appetite , and shifting hormone levels are thought to be to blame. Consistent exercise—particularly weight training—combined with healthy eating may help ward off midlife weight gain .
Explore More About Menopause
For a comprehensive understanding of menopause, read our complete guide: