Menopause It is a natural process that all women go through throughout their lives, marking the end of the reproductive stage. Although its arrival can generate uncertainty due to the physical and emotional changes it brings, knowing its stages and learning to face them can make a big difference in the quality of life.
In this article we will delve into the phases of menopause, its symptoms, how to manage the changes and what to do to maintain an active and healthy life during and after this process.
What is menopause and why does it occur?
Menopause is the definitive cessation of ovarian activity, which implies the withdrawal of menstruation. This process, which usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, is a consequence of the decrease in levels of estrogen y progesterone, two fundamental hormones in female health.
Menopause does not happen suddenly. Instead, the body goes through a series of stages that include hormonal, physical and emotional changes, divided into three major phases: premenopause, menopause y postmenopause.
The stages of menopause
Knowing the stages of menopause is key to preparing for and adapting to the changes that this period brings. Below, we explore each of these phases in detail.
1. Premenopause
This stage, also known as perimenopause, marks the beginning of the transition to menopause. It generally begins around age 45, although it can be brought forward in some cases due to factors such as genetics, Smoking o Stress.
During premenopause, there are menstrual cycle disorders, which become irregular in quantity and duration. In addition, the first symptoms related to hormonal changes often appear:
- Hot flashes and night sweats: Sudden sensations of heat that may be uncomfortable.
- Mood alterations: Irritability, anxiety and sometimes depression.
- Vaginal dryness: Decreased natural lubrication.
- Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
These symptoms can vary from woman to woman, so it is important to stay in touch with healthcare professionals to evaluate each case individually.
2. Menopause
This stage is confirmed when a woman has at least 12 consecutive months without menstruation. It marks the definitive end of reproductive capacity. Although it can be a relief for some women when their periods stop, for others it can be a complicated period due to symptoms such as:
- More intense hot flashes.
- Difficulty maintaining body weight.
- Changes in hair and skin.
- Reduced sexual desire.
During this phase, the risk of suffering from certain health problems such as osteoporosis o cardiovascular diseases increases due to decreased estrogen levels.
3. Postmenopause
This final phase begins immediately after menopause and extends throughout the rest of a woman's life. It is a crucial stage for health care, as hormone levels stabilize at low levels and new challenges arise:
- Bone density loss: Increases the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
- Cardiovascular health problems: Elevated cholesterol and increased risk of hypertension.
- Persistent vaginal dryness: It may cause discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Despite the challenges, postmenopause can also be a time of of self discovery and well-being if healthy habits are implemented.
Tips for coping with menopause in a healthy way
Going through menopause does not have to be a complicated process if you take the necessary steps to take care of your Physical Health, mental y emotional. Here are some recommendations:
- Maintain a balanced diet: Increase your intake of football, vitamin D, fruits, vegetables y whole grains. Reduce consumption of refined sugars y saturated. Find out more about nutrition at this stage.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthen bones, and improve mood. Activities such as yoga o pilates They are ideal.
- Consultation on complementary therapies: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be an option for some women. In addition, natural remedies with ingredients such as soybean and Grass of San Juan may relieve symptoms.
- Take care of your mental health: Practice techniques of relaxation such as meditation or mindfulness to reduce stress.
Menopause as a new stage of opportunities
Far from meaning the end of an active life, menopause can be seen as an opportunity to restart with new habits and goals. The key is to accept this change as a natural part of life, focusing on self-care and taking advantage of the experience acquired over the years.
Well-being at this stage depends, to a large extent, on the approach given and the actions taken to maintain a full life. Surrounding yourself with support, consulting regularly with doctors and being aware of the changes in your body are essential steps to living this stage with optimism.
