Menopause happens to every woman at some point in their life. While all women experience it, every woman experiences menopause differently. There are three stages to menopause that all women encounter. You should understand the symptoms of each stage so you know how to eliminate them and figure out what is happening to your body.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause starts years before menopause occurs. It begins in women between their thirties and forties. This is when the symptoms everyone relates to menopause actually occur. Your menstrual cycle will still occur, but not regularly. Your estrogen levels will also begin to decline. Symptoms that will also occur are hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain and vaginal dryness.
You can eliminate some of these symptoms easily. Eliminate vaginal dryness by taking a daily vaginal moisture supplement. Reduce weight gain and the intensity of hot flashes by exercising three to five times a week.
Menopause
Menopause is when you have your last period. You will not know exactly when menopause hits, because it isn’t official until you haven’t had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Most women reach the age of menopause in their early fifties. However, certain medical situations may cause some women to reach menopause earlier than others.
If your ovaries are removed or you have to go through chemotherapy or radiation, menopause may occur earlier for you. Track your period. If it has been a year since your last menstrual period, make an appointment to talk to your doctor.
Post-Menopause
Post menopause occurs after a year free of your period. Your menstrual period may have ended, but your body may still experience some of the symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. This occurs because your estrogen levels are still declining.
The lack of estrogen can lead to bone loss, even osteoporosis. There are many ways to prevent bone loss during post menopause. Contact your doctor to learn about the best treatment for you.
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/menopause/guide/menopause-information
http://www.allthingsmenopause.com/expert-voices/mind-body/3-stages-menopause/
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