Menopause, much more than hot flashes

Menopause is a natural transition that all women will experience! Despite being a natural process, menopause is often surrounded by misrecognition and stigma. But if approached with reliable knowledge and the right support, changes can be managed better, transforming this phase into an opportunity for renewal and well-being.

What is Menopause?

Menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs and levels of hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and testosterone begin to decline. A woman is technically considered to be in menopause after she has passed 12 months since her last menstrual period.

When does one go through menopause?

The average age of menopause in Italy is 51 years, but the onset of this period can vary widely, commonly occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. However, it is important to note that menopause can occur even earlier, in cases of early menopause. This can occur naturally or be induced by surgery or drug treatments.

Let's clarify: Perimenopause, pre menopause, early menopause and postmenopause

Premenopause : The period of a woman's life before the onset of menopause. The production of female hormones fluctuates, leading to changes in the menstrual cycle, but the woman is still fertile and continues to menstruate.

Perimenopause : transition period towards menopause. It may begin several years before menopause, when ovarian function gradually begins to decline, and continues until the year after the last menstrual period. This phase is characterized by symptoms due to hormonal fluctuations.

Early menopause: Refers to the onset of menopause before the age of 40. This condition involves permanent cessation of menstruation due to reduced ovarian function.

Postmenopause : Period that begins after a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without having a menstrual cycle. During postmenopause, levels of the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, remain low and stable. This drop in estrogen can increase your risk of developing heart disease and osteoporosis.

More frequent symptoms

Menopause and perimenopause symptoms can vary greatly from woman to woman, but there are some common signs and symptoms that many experience.

Here are the most frequent:

Hot flashes
Menstrual irregularities
Sleep disorders
Mood variations
Vaginal dryness
Loss of bone density
Changes in breast tissue
Changes in weight and body composition:
Decreased libido
Concentration and memory problems

How is the diagnosis process?

The diagnosis of menopause is based primarily on the evaluation of symptoms and a woman's menstrual history. Generally, a woman is considered to have entered menopause after 12 consecutive months without menstruation, in the absence of other medical or surgical causes. This chronological criterion is the main indicator of menopause.

Upon the arrival of the first symptoms it would be advisable to visit the doctor for a complete evaluation. You may decide to carry out some tests to confirm menopause and/or to evaluate your general health and possible risks associated with the decrease in sexual hormones.

An action plan for living a positive menopause

For women approaching menopause, it is critical to take a proactive and informed approach to navigate this transition consciously and effectively. The critical first step is to seek information from reliable, evidence-based sources. It is essential to rely on menopause specialists who not only offer personalized support but also take a holistic approach. This means considering all aspects of menopause, integrating physical, emotional and mental health, and recognizing the specificities of each woman. These experts should be able to clearly explain the changes taking place, providing guidance on appropriate therapies and suggestions for a healthy lifestyle that reflects the unique needs of each individual.

How to guarantee a good quality of life during menopause

Myths about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in menopause is surrounded by numerous myths and misconceptions, generating fear and confusion, leading many women to discard this important resource in dealing with the symptoms of menopause and reducing the risks of developing osteoporosis and heart disease in the long term.

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a personalized assessment and to openly discuss all available treatments, considering the pros and cons of HRT in relation to your needs and health condition.

But in the meantime let's dispel some myths about HRT

HRT is dangerous for all women: False!

For many women, the benefits, such as relief from menopause symptoms and prevention of osteoporosis and heart disease, outweigh the potential risks. Not all women are at the same risk with HRT. The decision to start HRT depends on an individual assessment of the risks and benefits made together with your doctor.

All types of HRT increase the risk of breast cancer significantly: False!

It is essential to highlight that the risk associated with Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) varies depending on the specific therapy used, the duration of treatment and the personal characteristics of the woman. Estrogen-only HRT is not linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. However, some types of combined HRT, which include both estrogen and progestin, may lead to a slightly increased risk. For women using bioidentical progesterone, no increased risk of breast cancer is observed in the first five years of therapy, and thereafter it remains uncertain whether an increased risk exists. The use of older forms of progestins is considered to carry a very small risk of breast cancer. Interestingly, the risk of developing breast cancer linked to HRT is actually lower than that associated with a sedentary lifestyle, an unhealthy diet and being overweight

Only pills are effective in HRT: False!

There are several forms of HRT, including patches, gels, sprays, and subcutaneous pellets, as well as pills. Each method has its advantages and may be preferable depending on the needs and health conditions of the woman.

Once HRT is started, it must be continued for life: False!

It is not necessary to continue HRT for life. Many women use it for a limited period to manage menopause symptoms and then gradually discontinue it under the guidance of their doctor.

HRT is the only option for managing menopause symptoms: False!

While HRT can be effective for many menopausal symptoms, there are other options, including lifestyle changes, non-hormonal remedies, and psychological support, that can relieve symptoms for many women.

How to experience menopause positively

Many women experience menopause as a difficult phase, but it doesn't necessarily has to be that way. This period can transform into an opportunity for growth and renewal, provided you adopt the right approach.

Every woman experiences menopause in a unique way, therefore requiring solutions tailored to her needs.

Get informed and consult your doctor to identify the most suitable approach for you!

Pausetiv's mission is to provide you with the tools you need to go through menopause with serenity and happiness!

Be Pausetiv!