Beyond Hot Flushes

It is a welcome change that the menopause is no longer a taboo subject. Afterall, although in different ways, it will affect every woman. We should also bear in mind that menopause spans 1/3 – 1/2 of a woman’s entire life. Menopause is not simply that time when periods stop. Instead menopause transition, or perimenopause, can begin 2-10 years before final menstrual period. Furthermore, about 10% of women can experience early menopause before the age of 45, and about 1% of women can experience premature menopause (or POI) before age 40. This can be either as a spontaneous event or as a side effect of a medical or surgical treatment (pelvic surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy etc.). Women with premature or early menopause should always have an assessment with a doctor whether they have any bothersome symptoms or not.
The many hormonal changes that occur as a woman approaches and experiences menopause transition can impact her quality of life and long term health. These symptoms often start during perimenopause and, to name just a few, include: change to period pattern, hot flushes, night sweats, change in body shape, weight gain, joint aches, sleep disturbance, brain fog, mood fluctuations, anxiety, depression, reduced libido, headaches, skin and vaginal dryness, urinary frequency and changes in pre-existing health conditions.
We also know that due to hormonal changes, from the time of menopause transition, women are at increased risk of heart disease, bone thinning (osteopenia or osteoporosis), cognitive decline, reduced muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia).
Lifestyle factors such as healthy diet, exercise and good sleep need to be addressed. This will help with the symptoms, promote healthspan and wellbeing, reduce chance of developing chronic health issues.
Menopause transition can be managed with the help of a knowledgeable medical professional. In consultation and after careful evaluation, Menopausal Hormonal Therapy (MHT), also known as Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT, may be considered an appropriate treatment. MHT should be tailored to the specific needs of each individual woman.
For some women non-MHT prescribed treatment may be more appropriate. Where required other therapies such as psychological therapy, acupuncture, physiotherapy may also be beneficial.