Have you ever wondered how menopause happens? Basically, it’s a simple part of the aging process. The ovaries produce hormones during the reproductive years however as a woman ages her ovaries gradually begin producing less and less of various hormones. As a result, women experience menopausal symptoms.

Most women begin to experience a decline in hormone production during their mid thirties. Gradually, the body will begin producing less and less and eventually a woman’s periods will stop altogether. When this occurs the woman is menopausal. During the perimenopausal years, however, women are fertile and still may become pregnant. That’s why it is important to continue to use birth control during this time because a pregnancy may occur. Most women will experience a complete cessation of their periods by the time they reach their mid 50s, however this is different for every woman. The reduction of estrogen is what causes the common menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, depression, headaches, insomnia, mood swings, and more.

There are many things that play a role in menopause and how and why it begins. However, what should be kept in mind is that menopause is very natural and it occurs differently for every woman. The onset of menopause as well as its duration and the severity of its symptoms will range significantly for all women. That’s why it is important for each woman to approach menopause as a personal experience and understand that it may not be the same for her as it was for her mom, sister, or her best friend.

There are various treatment options for menopause form hormone replacement therapy, HRT, to alternative and complementary treatments. Some natural options are preferred by women who are concerned about the increased risk of cancer with the use of hormone replacement therapy. However, some women need relief from their symptoms and prefer to risk the side effects of HRT.

Posted in Menopause

Related Articles: