Menopause

Menopause, a natural and normal part of a woman's aging process, signifies the conclusion of her childbearing years. It's a biological transition, not a disorder, and understanding its effects can significantly aid in managing this critical life stage.

This phase is typically identified when a woman hasn't experienced a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, usually occurring after age 45, marking the end of fertility. 

During menopause, the ovaries cease egg production, resulting in lower estrogen and progesterone levels.

Recognizing menopause as a significant yet normal part of a woman's life cycle is crucial. At Inception Telehealth & Wellness, we are here to guide and support women through this transition.

Women typically experience menopause in three distinct stages:

• Perimenopause: This is the lead-up to menopause. It starts years earlier and is marked by slow changes in hormone levels.
• Menopause: Defined by the absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months.
• Postmenopause: The period following menopause, where a majority of women observe a decrease in menopausal symptoms.

Each woman experiences menopause differently, though several common symptoms are often:

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Vaginal dryness
• Reduced fertility
• Altered sexual desire
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood fluctuations
• Sleep disturbances

During menopause, the most notable hormonal change is the reduction in estrogen and progesterone levels, essential for regulating menstruation and fertility. This decrease leads to the cessation of menstrual periods. 

Additionally, there may be a decline in other hormones like testosterone, which can affect a woman's overall well-being and health.

Understanding these changes is crucial for effectively navigating through menopause. At Inception Telehealth & Wellness, we are dedicated to providing care to women undergoing this significant transition.

A better understanding of menopause's physical and psychological effects aids women in effectively navigating this transition.

• Physical Alterations: Menopause can bring about hot flashes, night sweats, sleep issues, and alterations in sexual function.
• Emotional and Psychological Shifts: This phase may trigger mood swings, feelings of sadness or loss, and irritability.
• Long-term Health Implications: The risk of conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes may be heightened by menopause.

Post-menopause, you may face an increased risk of certain health conditions influenced by factors such as family history, pre-menopause health, and lifestyle choices. Notably, osteoporosis and coronary artery disease are significant concerns.

Pregnancy During Menopause

Once you enter postmenopause, the likelihood of pregnancy ceases. However, during the transition phase known as perimenopause, pregnancy remains a possibility. To avoid unintended pregnancy, it's advisable to persist in using contraception until menopause is fully confirmed.

Osteoporosis

This condition, characterized by weakened bones due to reduced density, makes bones more susceptible to fractures. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density by inhibiting bone degradation. From menopause to age 60, an average bone mass loss of 25% occurs, primarily due to estrogen depletion. 

This loss heightens the risk of bone fractures. Bone mineral density tests, also known as bone densitometry, effectively measure calcium levels in bones, helping in the early detection of osteoporosis and osteopenia, a precursor to osteoporosis. Treatments for these conditions may include estrogen therapy.

Coronary Artery Disease

This disease involves the narrowing or blockage of the heart's arteries due to plaque accumulation, a process called atherosclerosis, often linked to high cholesterol levels. 

Post-menopause, the risk for coronary artery disease escalates due to factors like estrogen loss, increased blood pressure, reduced physical activity, and the impact of past lifestyle habits (such as smoking or excessive alcohol use).

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) has proven effective in alleviating menopause symptoms by using hormones that are molecularly identical to those naturally produced in women's bodies, in turn replenishing estrogen and progesterone.

The effectiveness and safety of hormone therapy vary based on age and health history. Generally, individuals in their 50s may benefit more from hormone therapy compared to those in their 60s. Those experiencing premature menopause are advised to undergo hormone therapy until the age of 50 to compensate for the early loss of estrogen.

While BHRT offers significant relief from menopause symptoms by compensating for the hormonal decline during menopause, it's essential to be aware of its potential risks and side effects, which should be thoroughly discussed with a healthcare provider.