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In Australia, the average age of menopause is 50 to 51 years of age, but in some women it could happen earlier or later. If it happens before the age of 40, it is called “premature menopause”. Menopause is a natural process that results from normal ageing of the ovaries.
> back to topThis refers to the transition time that leads to menopause. During this time, the normal function of the ovaries slows down, producing less hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) until ovulation no longer occurs and periods stop altogether. This phase may last for 6 months to 10 years. A woman is considered postmenopausal when she has not had a period for 12 months.
> back to topSymptoms vary from woman to woman. Some have no symptoms at all, others may experience symptoms and not be bothered by them, whilst some women find them irritating and troubling. These symptoms include hot flushes (often accompanied by sweats, day or night), disturbed sleep, aches and pains, a dry vagina (making sex uncomfortable), reduced sex drive, urinary frequency, headaches and or migraines, forgetfulness and or irritability, mood swings, and dry skin or a crawling or itching sensation.
> back to topThe long-term risks associated with menopause are a thinning of the bones known as osteoporosis together with an increased risk of cardiovascular (heart) disease. A healthy lifestyle with a good diet and regular exercise is an important part of managing menopause.
> back to topRegular Pap smears and breast checks including mammography are recommended for menopausal and post menopausal women. It is also recommended that you discuss with a doctor the need for bone density testing to check for any signs of osteoporosis together with the need for any calcium supplementation. Your cholesterol, blood glucose and blood pressure should also be monitored.
> back to topThe aim of this therapy is to replace the hormone or hormones that were made by the ovaries prior to menopause. It can reduce many of the unpleasant effects of the symptoms of menopause and may be appropriate for short-term use in women with moderate to severe menopausal symptoms. HRT must be prescribed by a doctor and is not available over the counter. HRT comes in various forms and combinations of hormones (oestrogen and progesterone). Anyone considering this treatment should discuss the benefits, risks and side effects with a doctor and have their treatment well monitored.
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