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Conditions Associated With Menopause

The end of a woman's menstrual periods is called menopause. This may occur naturally at the end of the child-bearing years. This can also be caused by chemotherapy, surgery and radiation.

  1. Considerations

    • Many women experience a variety of symptoms related to this life change. These symptoms may affect both the emotional and physical health. Symptoms can range in severity.

    Definition

    • The main symptom is the change in menstrual periods, ending in complete cessation. Irregular periods may occur for a number of months or even years before they stop. Menopause does not technically occur until the periods have been absent for 12 months.

    Hot Flashes

    • Hot flashes are commonly experienced by women during this time. These occur mainly at night, sometimes causing night sweats.

    Sleep

    • Fatigue and tiredness are common during this time, most likely due to the difficulty in sleeping that many women experience.

    Emotions

    • Menopause brings changes in moods. Emotions can include feelings of irritability, anxiety and depression. Many women become concerned about memory problems and general forgetfulness.

    Treatment

    • Many women experience difficulty dealing with the symptoms of menopause. Traditional or alternative medicine may be necessary to alleviate or reduce the symptoms. Health care professionals may advise hormone replacement therapy (HRT), dietary changes or herbal supplements.

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