Menopause

Most women experience the onset of menopause between 45 and 55, a natural part of the ageing process.

As a woman approaches the menopausal stage, her ovaries stop producing the hormone oestrogen, leading to the cessation of her menstrual cycle. This also renders her unable to become pregnant naturally.

During the menstrual cycle, women often experience a variety of symptoms. Our team of doctors is here to assist you through this transition and offer treatments for any issues that may arise.

Some women may experience symptoms of the menopause many years before it occurs. The menopause is characterised by a variety of symptoms, including the following:

• Anxiety or depression
  
  
• Reduced sex drive
  
  
• Memory problems
  
  
• Insomnia
  
  
• Sweating, particularly at night
  
  
• Difficulty concentrating
  
  
• Irregular periods
  
  
• Hot flushes
  
  
• Vaginal dryness

Even if you are not yet of the age when menopause is usually expected, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is still recommended that you seek medical advice.

Treatment for menopause depends on your symptoms and the type of treatment you need. Our doctors may recommend the following:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) involves supplementing the body's natural oestrogen levels with an artificial source, typically delivered through tablets, patches or implants.
  
  
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a talking therapy which helps individuals understand how their thoughts, feelings and behaviours are connected and, in turn, can be used to manage any psychological symptoms they may be experiencing.
  
  
• Once menopause has occurred, it's essential to take measures to look after your general health. This includes lifestyle changes, like getting more exercise and following a nutritious diet, which can prevent heart disease and osteoporosis.

As women age, their ovaries produce less oestrogen, shifting their hormonal balance. As a result, the ovaries stop releasing an egg each month, and periods cease, rendering natural pregnancy impossible.

This is a natural process for all women, so it's normal if the woman is between 45 and 55.

Menopause can occur early in some women for unknown reasons. There are, however, some possible causes:

• The ovaries or uterus are removed during oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
  
  
• Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are some cancer treatments
  
  
• Underlying medical conditions

If you are 45 to 55, it is normal for this to be a part of the natural process for women.

 
If you're having any troubling symptoms or think you may be in the early stages of menopause, our doctors are here to assist you.

Connect with one of our doctors at Mobi Doctor with the click of a button and receive the care you require.