The term menopause is commonly used to describe the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle, fertility and the different types of changes a woman experiences. During menopause, the menstrual cycle, fertility and the production of oestrogen and progesterone hormones are completely stopped. This is a natural process in all females and is no more related to the disease or infections. It is a biological process which brings an end to a woman’s fertility.
Menopause happens in all elder women between the age of 40s and 50s and may also vary. The main cause of Menopause is the female sex hormone levels, which naturally reduce along with age, and eventually, the ovaries stop releasing the eggs. Therefore, women in this phase will no longer have periods or be able to get pregnant.
Symptoms of Menopause
Women experience very mild symptoms, which usually vary with the level of oestrogen hormones in their body. Listed below are the most common symptoms or changes that women undergo during menopause:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Rapid heartbeat
- Lower rate of fertility
- Urinary tract infections
- Overweight and obesity
- Low or poor concentration
- Hair loss or thinning of hairs
- Depression and mood swings
- The build-up of fat in the abdomen
- Dryness, itching, and discomfort of the vagina
- Irregular periods or changes in the menstrual cycle
These were a few common symptoms related to menopause. There is no need for treatment, as the symptoms usually taper off over a period of 2 to 5 years or more. In very rare cases, menopause can lead to the development of complications, including cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, a low bone density which leads to osteoporosis, etc.
Menopause begins four years before the last menstrual cycle. Perimenopause occurs before menopause. This is the condition when the body prepares itself for menopause by hormonal changes. 1% of women experience perimenopause before 40 years of age. Few do not experience perimenopause and enter menopause directly.
Stay tuned with BYJU’S to learn in detail about menopause, and its symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
What is the difference between menopause and menarche?
| Menarche: | Menopause |
| 1. It refers to the beginning of menstruation at puberty in primates/human females. In human females, menstruation begins at about 13 years of age. | 1. It refers to the stoppage of the menstrual cycle at the age of 45-55. |
| 2. It marks the beginning of the reproductive phase. | 2. It marks the end of the reproductive phase. |
| Also Read | |
| Osteoporosis | Female Hormones |
| Menstrual Cycle | Female Reproductive System |
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