What is menopause?
Menopause is the natural stage of life when a woman’s period stops, and estrogen levels decline. As menopausal symptoms are typically experienced for several years, it is best described as a ‘transition’ rather than a one-off event.
The menopause typically happens between age 45 and 55. ‘Perimenopause’ is the phase leading up to the menopause, when a woman’s hormone balance starts to change.
For some women this can start as early as their twenties or as late as their late forties.
51 is the average age for a woman to go through the menopause in the UK, but around 1 in 100 experience it before the age of 40. This is referred to as ‘premature menopause’.
There is no clear cause for the early onset of menopause, but it can also be a result of surgery (for example hysterectomy, oophorectomy), illness or treatment (such as chemotherapy).
What are the symptoms of the menopause?
The menopause can cause a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms that can last for many years.
Menopausal symptoms can fluctuate and be felt to varying degrees, every woman is different.
Symptoms of Menopause include:-
Mood disturbances
Reduced Concentration
Muscle and Joint Stiffness
Anxiety / Depression
Hot Flushes
Sleep Disturbances
Panic Attacks
Loss of Confidence
Reduced sex drive
Memory Loss
Irregular Periods
Weight gain
How to diagnose the menopause?
A menopause diagnosis is usually made clinically based on symptoms
. A blood test is not usually indicated
. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels may be considered in the following patients:
• Over 45 years with atypical symptoms.
• Suspected early menopause (i.e. menopausal symptoms between 40–45 years).
• Suspected premature ovarian insufficiency (i.e. menopausal symptoms before age 40).
How can Williams Medical help your practise?
Drug History
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Medical History
Previous Treatment
Contraception
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