Menopause

What Is Menopause?

Menopause marks the natural end of a woman's menstrual cycles and fertility. It is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. It is a normal biological transition, not a disease, though it can bring physical, emotional, and hormonal changes that may affect quality of life.

Menopause can also occur earlier due to surgery, medical treatments, or premature ovarian insufficiency.

Stages of Menopause

Perimenopause
The transitional phase leading up to menopause—can last several years.
Symptoms begin as estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate.

Menopause
Diagnosed after one full year without menstruation. The ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce very low levels of estrogen.

Postmenopause
The phase after menopause. Symptoms may continue but often ease over time. Long-term health changes may emerge due to low estrogen.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause affects each woman differently. Common symptoms include:

• Irregular or skipped periods (during perimenopause)
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Sleep disturbances or insomnia
• Mood swings, irritability, or anxiety
• Vaginal dryness and painful intercourse
• Decreased libido (sex drive)
• Weight gain or changes in body shape
• Thinning hair or dry skin
• Memory lapses or difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue or lack of energy

These symptoms are mostly due to declining estrogen levels.

Long-Term Health Risks After Menopause

After menopause, women face increased risk of certain conditions due to lower estrogen:

• Osteoporosis – decreased bone density and risk of fractures
• Heart disease – cholesterol levels and blood pressure may increase
• Urinary incontinence or infections
• Vaginal atrophy – thinning of vaginal tissue
• Cognitive decline – possible risk of Alzheimer’s or memory issues

Causes of Early or Induced Menopause

Menopause can happen before age 40 (called premature menopause) due to:

• Family history or genetics
• Autoimmune diseases
• Smoking or poor lifestyle habits
• Surgical removal of ovaries (oophorectomy)
• Cancer treatments (chemotherapy, radiation)
• Certain chronic illnesses

Diagnosis

Menopause is typically diagnosed based on symptoms and menstrual history. In some cases, blood tests may be used to confirm:

• FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): Elevated in menopause
• Estradiol (Estrogen): Lower levels
• TSH: To rule out thyroid disorders mimicking menopause

Managing Menopause: Treatment and Support

Lifestyle Changes

• Healthy diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and antioxidants
• Regular exercise (weight-bearing, cardio, yoga)
• Stress management through meditation, deep breathing
• Avoid triggers for hot flashes (e.g., caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods)
• Stay hydrated and sleep 7–8 hours

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

• Replaces estrogen (and sometimes progesterone) to relieve symptoms
• Helps with hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness
• May also prevent bone loss

Note: HRT is not for everyone—risks and benefits must be assessed individually, especially for women with a history of breast cancer, stroke, or heart disease.

Non-Hormonal Treatments

• Antidepressants (SSRIs) for mood and hot flashes
• Gabapentin or clonidine for night sweats
• Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants for dryness
• Osteoporosis medications (e.g., bisphosphonates) if bone loss is significant

Alternative Therapies

• Soy, flaxseed, or black cohosh (may help mild symptoms)
• Acupuncture, Ayurveda, or herbal supplements (seek medical advice before use)

Emotional and Mental Health During Menopause

Many women experience anxiety, sadness, or mood shifts during this transition. This may be due to hormonal fluctuations, life changes, or sleep disruption.

Support options:

• Therapy or counseling
• Support groups
• Open communication with family or healthcare providers
• Mind-body practices like yoga or mindfulness

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Menopause Care?

At Aster Hospitals, we offer comprehensive menopause management by blending medical expertise with personalized, empathetic care. Our Gynaecologists provide expert diagnosis and hormonal assessments to understand your unique needs. We offer customized hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as well as non-hormonal alternatives, along with monitoring for bone and heart health to ensure long-term wellness. Our care also includes focused pelvic and vaginal health support, mental wellness services, and lifestyle guidance to promote healthy aging. We recognize that every woman’s menopause journey is different, and we’re here to walk with you through it—with compassion, care, and confidence.