Menopause: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Nov 08, 2024
Menopause (HRT)
Menopause is the stage in a woman’s life when periods stop permanently due to lower oestrogen and progesterone levels.
While entering menopause is a normal part of female life, it can also be scary and full of uncertainty. In this blog post, we hope to ease your anxieties about menopause as we answer all of your questions, from common symptoms to potential treatments.
When does menopause start?
Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with most women experiencing it around the age of 51. However, some women may enter menopause earlier or later due to a range of genetic, lifestyle, and health factors.
Perimenopause, also known as menopause transition, is the point at which your body begins ending its reproductive cycle and oestrogen levels begin to fall. A woman in perimenopause may experience similar symptoms to being in menopause, but it is not considered menopause until 12 months have passed without a period.
Certain medical treatments can also trigger menopause. For instance, surgeries that involve removing the ovaries (oophorectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy) can lead to early or immediate menopause. Additionally, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy can impact the ovaries and accelerate the onset of menopause.#
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Menopause can cause a range of mental and physical symptoms, including:
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Brain fog
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Changes in skin and hair texture
Some women may also experience sleep disturbances or increased sensitivity to temperature, making it difficult to stay comfortable.
These symptoms are closely linked to the reduction in oestrogen and other hormone levels during menopause. Oestrogen plays a vital role in the body in regulating mood, temperature, and cognition. This means that when production lowers or stops, a woman is likely to experience emotional shifts, mental fogginess, and often hot flushes.
How can I ease my menopausal symptoms without medication?
There are several lifestyle changes you can make to help ease the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause, including:
- Getting plenty of sleep
- Eating a healthy diet
- Consuming calcium-rich food to support bone health
- Regular exercise, especially weight-bearing activities
- Relaxing activities like yoga or meditation
- Talking with family, friends, or colleagues about your experience
Living a healthy lifestyle can make a significant difference to your symptoms. But, as we’ll discuss next, there are treatments available for menopause that your GP may prescribe.
What are hormone replacement therapies (HRT), and are they safe?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the primary medicinal treatment for menopause and perimenopause symptoms. It works by supplementing the body with hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone.
HRT is generally considered a safe and effective treatment with many benefits, such as:
- Relieving menopause and perimenopause symptoms
- Preventing osteoporosis by increasing oestrogen levels
- Improving muscle strength.
While there are associated risks to HRT, they are generally low. If you’re interested in starting this treatment, your GP can discuss any potential risks with you.
What hormone replacement therapies are available at Simply Meds Online?
Simply Meds Online offers two main types of hormone replacement therapy for relieving menopause symptoms: Combined HRT and oestrogen-only HRT.
Oestrogen-only HRT is recommended if you’ve had a hysterectomy. This treatment is available in various forms, each with different potential side effects:
Combined HRT is recommended if you still have your womb. This type provides both oestrogen and progesterone, helping to protect against the risk of womb cancer. You can either combine oestrogen-only HRT with progesterone tablets or use a combined HRT that includes both hormones:
If you have questions about which HRT option is right for you, consulting your GP or a qualified pharmacist can help you make an informed decision.
We’re here to help
Menopause is a significant phase in a woman's life that can bring various challenges, but there are effective ways to manage the symptoms. From lifestyle changes to hormone replacement therapies, you have options that can help you maintain comfort and well-being.
Simply Meds Online is here to support you through this journey with trusted HRT products and expert guidance.
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