The Transition to Menopause

What to expect?

By Dr Shradha Chaudhari

MD, FICOG, FCPS, DGO

Senior Consultant, Gynaecology, Gynae Oncology and Robotic Surgery

Medanta The Medicity

Menopause is a term used to describe permanent stoppage of menstrual cycles for more than one year. Though it can be dated in retrospect, after 12 months, the transition phase starts 5 to 7 years earlier. The slow change in metabolism of hormones with age, reflects on a woman’s periods, body structure, mental well being and urogenital health. From her 40ties, women can experience such changes.

Menopausal symptoms are divided into vasomotor, neurological, menstrual, cardiac and skeletal.

Commonest vasomotor problems are hot flushes, palpitations and sweating. Neurological complaints are mood swings, depression in early phase and memory loss over a long-term period. Menstrual disturbances could be either short cycles or delayed and scanty menstruation. Loss of libido is a fairly common complaint and it is also worsened by vaginal dryness and urinary issues due to drying of the vaginal mucosa. There is increased risk of heart attacks and fractures with altered metabolism in menopause.

While transition to menopause is inevitable, it can be rough for some women. Knowledge of facts and treatment options can help make this change a welcome and smooth one. Lifestyle changes, dietary modification, exercises and usage of menopause hormone therapy when required can make menopause transition easier and more acceptable.

Women must be made aware of symptoms that call for medical attention like heavy bleeding in periods or any bleeding after 12 months. Routine annual health checks which include ultrasound, mammograms, pap smear, lipid profile, diabetes and blood pressure screening, cardiac and bone health check ups like 2D ECHO and DEXA scan must be performed at least once a year from 40 years of age. Special attention must be given to mental well-being.

This period of menopause should ideally bring on a welcome new, mature and peaceful chapter of a woman’s life. Doctors, psychologists and support groups can make this dream a reality for all women.