How long do menopause symptoms last?

The average duration of menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes is about 7 years, though some women experience them for more than a decade. Symptom severity and duration vary widely from person to person.

Is hormone replacement therapy safe?

For most women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause onset, the benefits of HRT typically outweigh the risks. Your doctor can help determine the safest type, dose, and duration based on your personal health history.

Can you still get pregnant during perimenopause?

Yes, pregnancy is possible during perimenopause because ovulation can still occur irregularly. Contraception should be used until 12 months after the last menstrual period if pregnancy is not desired.

ReproductiveICD-10: N95.1Affects all women, typically between ages 45 and 55; about 1.3 million US women reach menopause annually

Menopause

Also known as: Change of Life, Climacteric

Menopause is a natural biological process marking the permanent end of menstrual periods, diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without menstruation. It typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, with the average age being 51 in the United States. The transition involves declining estrogen and progesterone levels that can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms.

Symptoms

Hot flashes and night sweats

Irregular periods during perimenopause

Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse

Sleep disturbances and insomnia

Mood changes including irritability and depression

Weight gain and slowed metabolism

Thinning hair and dry skin

Decreased libido

Memory difficulties and brain fog

Joint pain and stiffness

Causes

Natural age-related decline in ovarian function
Surgical removal of both ovaries (bilateral oophorectomy)
Chemotherapy or pelvic radiation therapy
Primary ovarian insufficiency (premature menopause)

Risk Factors

Age approaching the late 40s to early 50s
Smoking (associated with earlier menopause)
Family history of early menopause
History of hysterectomy
Autoimmune conditions affecting the ovaries

Diagnosis

Clinical evaluation based on age and symptom history
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) blood test (elevated in menopause)
Estradiol level testing (decreased in menopause)
Thyroid function tests to rule out thyroid disorders

Treatment

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with estrogen and/or progesterone
Low-dose vaginal estrogen for urogenital symptoms
Non-hormonal medications (SSRIs, gabapentin, clonidine) for hot flashes
Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants
Cognitive behavioral therapy for mood and sleep symptoms
Calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise for bone health

Prevention

Menopause itself cannot be prevented, but symptoms can be managed
Regular exercise to support mood and bone density
Balanced diet rich in calcium and phytoestrogens
Avoid smoking, which may hasten menopause

When to See a Doctor

Heavy or prolonged bleeding during perimenopause
Bleeding after 12 months without a period
Symptoms significantly impacting quality of life
Concerns about bone density or cardiovascular risk

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Osteoporosis

Musculoskeletal

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Endocrine

Premenstrual Syndrome

Reproductive

Depression

Mental Health

Related from the Supplement Library

Black Cohosh

Moderate

Herb · Reduces menopausal hot flashes

Vitex (Chaste Tree Berry)

Moderate

Herb · Reduces PMS symptoms

Evening Primrose Oil

Moderate

Fatty Acid · GLA source for anti-inflammatory prostaglandins

Magnesium Glycinate

Strong

Mineral · Improves sleep quality and onset

Maca Root

Moderate

Herb · Supports libido and sexual function

These supplements have been studied in relation to Menopause. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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