Sunday, 15 July 2012

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Menopause is a stage of life every mature women will experience. It is when a womens reproductive system ceases to release fertile eggs and her monthly menstrual cycle stops, this is caused by a reduction in hormone levels such as estrogen. For some women menopause will cause very few problems but for others the symptoms of menopause can cause a range of issues.

Menopause does not occur suddenly but rather of a period of years. It usually starts in a womans early fifties but in rare circumstances may occur in younger women due to sexual reproductive disorders. Menopause is a natural process that can not be avoided and although generally painless, the symptoms of menopause can include:
  • Hot and cold flushes
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Thinning of the membranes of the vagina and the uterus
  • Vaginal dryness, itching or discharge
  • Changes in urinary frequancy or incontinence
  • Increased susceptibility of inflammation and bacterial infections
  • Muscle and skeletal pain as well as increased risk of osteoporosis
  • Breast tenderness and swelling
  • Skin irritation and dryness
  • Depression, anxiety, fatigue, mood swings, irritability
  • Pain or difficulties during sexual intercourse
  • Low libido
This list may seem pretty long but you must remember these are just some of the possible symptoms of menopause, not every women will experience all of these symptoms.