What is menopause and what are its common symptoms?

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman's life when menstruation stops permanently and fertility is lost. Menopause is diagnosed when a woman has gone twelve consecutive months without a menstrual period [1]. This stage typically begins between the ages of 45 and 55, though it may start earlier for some women [1].

The period leading up to menopause is known as the perimenopause or the menopausal transition, which can last for several years [1]. During this period, the ovaries begin to produce smaller amounts of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which leads to the appearance of a range of symptoms [1].

Common Symptoms of Menopause

Symptoms of menopause vary from woman to woman, and some women may experience no symptoms other than the cessation of menstruation [2]. However, common symptoms include the following:

• Changes in the menstrual cycle: Periods may become irregular, shorter or longer, or lighter or heavier [1].
• Hot flashes and night sweats: This is a sudden feeling of warmth in the face, neck, and chest, which may be accompanied by sweating. If these flashes occur at night, they are known as night sweats [1].
• Sleep disturbances: Women may experience difficulty falling asleep or returning to sleep after waking, which can lead to fatigue and memory problems over time [1].
• Vaginal dryness: Vaginal dryness can cause pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse [1].
• Mood changes: A woman may feel mood swings, anxiety, or increased irritability [1].
• Bladder problems: Such as urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control) and urinary tract infections [1].

The Impact of Menopause on Bone Health

Bone density loss is one of the significant physical changes that occur during menopause due to a lack of estrogen [1]. This can lead to a condition called osteoporosis, where bones become weak, brittle, and more prone to fractures [1]. It is important to discuss prevention and treatment methods with a healthcare provider to maintain bone health during this stage.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If menopause symptoms are affecting your daily activities or getting worse, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider [2]. A doctor can discuss available treatment options, including lifestyle modifications, non-hormonal treatments, and hormone replacement therapy [1].

It is also important to consult a doctor if any postmenopausal vaginal bleeding occurs, as this could be a sign of a medical issue that requires immediate attention [2].

For more information about hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and bone health during menopause, you can visit Menopause Symptoms: Hot Flashes, Sleep Disturbances, and Bone Health (Arabic).

Medical references

• Menopause
• Menopause