Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, Treatments, and Management

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman's life. It marks the end of a woman’s monthly period and the ability to get pregnant naturally. This transition happens as a woman gets older. Understanding the changes that happen during menopause can help you manage this transition.¹

Who does menopause affect?

Menopause is a normal part of aging for women. The transition to menopause, called perimenopause, begins several years before the final menstrual period. Menopause is confirmed when a woman has not had a period for 12 months in a row.^1-3

The average age for menopause is 52. But menopause can occur anytime in a woman’s 40s and 50s. Some medical treatments, like surgery to remove the ovaries, can cause menopause to happen earlier. This is called surgical menopause.^1-3

What happens in the body during menopause?

During menopause, the body goes through major hormonal changes. The ovaries produce 2 hormones: estrogen and progesterone. These hormones control the monthly menstrual cycle.^1-3

As women age, their ovaries produce less and less of these hormones. The drop in estrogen and progesterone levels is the main cause of menopause symptoms. This hormonal shift affects many parts of the body.^1-3

Common menopause symptoms

The changes in hormone levels can cause many different symptoms that can range from mild to more severe. Each woman's experience with menopause is different.^1-3

Some women have mild symptoms that can be managed through lifestyle changes, while others have more severe symptoms that may be addressed with medicines or other therapies. Symptoms can last a short period of time or can go on for several years. Symptoms also vary depending on a person’s race and ethnicity, lifestyle, and other factors.^1-3

Some of the most common symptoms include:^1-3

• Hot flashes – This is a sudden feeling of heat that spreads through the body. It can cause sweating and a red, flushed face.
• Trouble sleeping and night sweats – Hot flashes can happen at night, also called night sweats, making it hard to get restful sleep. Some women also find it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep.
• Mood changes – Some women may feel more irritable, anxious, or sad during menopause. These feelings can be caused by hormonal changes and sleep problems.
• Vaginal dryness – Lower estrogen can make the vaginal tissues thinner and drier. This can make sex uncomfortable.
• Weight changes – Many women find they gain weight, especially around their middle, during this time. Hormonal changes can cause the body to store more fat.
• Irregular periods – During the transition to menopause, periods become irregular. They can be shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter than usual.

Managing menopause and treatment options

Many options are available to help manage menopause symptoms. These include lifestyle changes and medical treatments. It is important to talk with your healthcare provider (HCP) about the best options for you.^1,4

Lifestyle changes

Simple changes to your daily routine can make a big difference. Eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise can help with mood and sleep. It is also good for bone health, which can be affected by lower estrogen.^2-4

Dressing in light layers and carrying a portable fan can help you stay comfortable during a hot flash. Avoiding triggers like spicy food, alcohol, and smoking may also help reduce hot flashes.2,3

Medical treatments

For more severe symptoms, your HCP may suggest medical treatments, such as:⁴

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – HRT replaces the estrogen your body no longer makes. It is very effective for treating hot flashes and vaginal dryness. HRT has risks and benefits, so discuss them with your HCP.
• Vaginal estrogen – To help with vaginal dryness, your HCP can prescribe estrogen that is applied directly to the vagina. It comes as a cream, tablet, or ring. This targets the specific area and uses a very low dose of hormones.
• Anti-depressants – Low-dose antidepressants have been shown to help reduce the intensity of hot flashes and help with mood changes.
• Drugs to improve bone density – Menopause is also linked to osteoporosis. Several medicines can help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
• Non-hormonal medicines to help with hot flashes – Several drugs that are free of hormones have been shown to help treat menopause symptoms, specifically hot flashes. Talk with your doctor about your non-hormonal medicine options.

Talk with your healthcare provider

Menopause is a natural and normal transition. It is not an illness. While its symptoms can be challenging, there are many ways to find relief. Lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help you stay healthy and active. Always talk to your healthcare provider to create a plan that works for you.