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Signs and Symptoms of Postmenopause
Postmenopause is a stage in a woman’s life after menopause, which is typically defined as the end of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months. This occurs when the ovaries cease production of hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. During postmenopause, a woman may experience physical and psychological changes, and these should not be ignored.
Common Symptoms of Postmenopause
- Vaginal Changes: After menopause, decline in the levels of estrogen can result in thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal wall. This can cause discomfort during intercourse and lead to itching, burning, and sometimes bleeding.
- Changes in Hormone Levels: With postmenopause comes a further drop in levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Low hormone levels can cause physical and psychological changes, ranging from hot flashes to fatigue and depression.
- Sleep Changes: Sleep disturbances can occur as levels of hormones fluctuate. A decline in estrogen that often comes with postmenopause can lead to insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, and waking up often during the night.
- Mood Swings: When menopause arrives, the body can begin to experience negative shifts in mood. Postmenopause can bring further instability in mood as hormones continue to decline, resulting in off-and-on depression and/or anxiety.
Tips for Coping with Postmenopause Symptoms
- Talk to Your Doctor: Your doctor can offer helpful advice on how to cope with symptoms of postmenopause. The doctor can also assess your hormone levels, if necessary.
- Exercise Regularly: Exercise, like jogging, swimming, bicycling, and yoga, can help reduce symptoms related to postmenopause. Regular exercise can also improve mood and overall health.
- Eat Healthy: Eating healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can stimulate hormone production, which can alleviate many symptoms of postmenopause.
- Take Medication: If necessary, a doctor may recommend oral or topical medication to help reduce dryness and inflammation in the vagina, or to help stabilize hormone levels.
Conclusion
Postmenopause is a normal stage of life for many women. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms that can come with postmenopause, and to take steps to cope with them in a positive way. Through regular exercise, healthy eating, medication, and speaking to your doctor, it is possible to reduce the discomfort of postmenopause.
Keywords: Postmenopause, Menopause, Symptoms, Exercise, Hormone Levels, Vaginal Changes, Sleep Changes, Mood Swings.
