Menopause occurs when a women stops ovulating and her periods ceases. Most women reach menopause between 45 and 55 years, with an average age around 50. But about 1% reaches it before 40, which is known as premature menopause or premature ovarian failure.
For women in their teens and 20's the loss of their fertility is devastating. They will also experience a long period of postmenopausal life, and hormonal replacement therapy may be advised.
Symptoms:
Ø Menstrual cycle changes Ø Changes in the bleeding pattern Ø Hot flushes Ø Sweats Ø Urinary problems such as incontinence or increased frequency of urination. Ø Dry vagina Ø Mood changes Ø Weight changes etc
Are some of the basic symptoms.
Prevention:
We can prevent early Menopause, by preventing unwanted surgeries, of the uterus or the ovaries unless there is strong indication for their removal. Such Surgeries can lead to autoimmune diseases such as diabetes, Rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disorders. Conserving even a single ovary can help in preventing the onset menopause.
Urban women have access to information or counseling, but unfortunately the women in rural areas of Asia have no such knowledge. The good news for those who would like to rule out doubts about the onset of menopause will soon be available in the form of LH Kits ( Leutinizing hormone ) to check their ovulation especially used with infertility patients. While stress cannot be over emphasized, it has a role in temporary or prolonged cessation of periods.
Treatment:
Generally early menopause too is treated in a similar way as menopause itself, through HRT ( Hormone Replacement Therapy ), life style modification,calcium and good nutrition.
HRT - It must be borne in mind that an extensive study shows that HRT is not a protection against heart diseases as was believed before and infact not quite the "happy pill" - that women had thought is given up to the age of menopause.
