Menopause: signs and complications
What is menopause?
Menopause is the medical term for the end of a woman’s
menstrual periods. It is often called the "change of life" and marks the transition between a woman’s childbearing years and her non-childbearing years. Menopause is a natural part of aging and occurs as a result of the gradual loss of
estrogen, a hormone produced in the ovaries. During a period known as "perimenopause," estrogen production declines and women often develop irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings and fatigue. These symptoms often develop 3 to 5 years before a woman’s last period.
Menopause is diagnosed when a woman has been without a period for one year. The average age of menopause is 51 but varies from person to person. Cigarette smoking has been shown to accelerate the onset of menopause by 1-2 years. A variety of factors that affect ovarian function may cause premature menopause.
Menopause in african american women
Menopause affects all women regardless of race or socioeconomic background. However, recent studies have shown that the experience of menopause is different among racial groups. African Americans have more
estrogen related symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, urine leakage) than all other ethnic groups. Additionally, African Americans are less likely to have somatic symptoms (headaches, difficulty sleeping, racing heart, stiffness and soreness in joints) than all other ethnic groups.
What are the signs and symptoms of menopause?
Menopause is a very individualized experience. Some women find the "change" extremely bothersome while others notice little difference. Research has proven, however, that low estrogen levels are responsible for a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, which will be outlined below.
Hot flashes
Hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause, affecting more than 60 percent of menopausal women. A hot flash is a sudden; often fleeting sensation ranging from warmth to intense heat that usually begins in the face or upper chest and spreads over the body. These flashes usually last from 30 seconds to several minutes, and are often accompanied by a rapid heart rate and feelings of anxiety. Hot flashes usually occur spontaneously but can be triggered by hot, humid weather, confining spaces or ingestion of caffeine, alcohol or spicy foods.
Stress and tension may also increase the frequency and severity of flashes.
Irregular menstrual periods
Episodes of heavy bleeding and/or of
infrequent cycles. Cycles may be longer or shorter. Irregular menstrual cycles may occur 2-8 years before the end of your periods. However, not all cases of irregular bleeding are caused by menopause. Discussion with your physician will determine if further evaluation is necessary.
Mood changes
Many women report an increased level of anxiety and irritability as the "change" occurs.
Vaginal dryness
Results from lack of
vaginal lubrication. This is caused by a deficiency of estrogen and may contribute to a decrease in sexual satisfaction.
Complications of menopause
We have already discussed many of the changes a
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