Menopause (The Menopausal Transition)
Stages of Menopause
1. Perimenopause
๐ Early transition phase (2-3 years)
๐ Irregular periods
๐ Symptoms: hot flashes, dizziness, fatigue, mood swings
2. Menopause
๐ Defined as no menstruation for 12 consecutive months
3. Postmenopause
Begins after menopause
๐ Vaginal narrowing/dryness
๐ Bone loss (osteoporosis)
๐ Increased risk of chronic diseases
Common Symptoms
Short-Term Symptoms
๐ Irregular menstruation
๐ Hot flashes
๐ Insomnia
๐ Mood changes (anxiety, irritability, depression)
๐ Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse
๐ Decreased libido
๐ Skin dryness and wrinkles
๐ Breast sagging
Long-Term Effects
1. Cardiovascular Disease
๐ Increased risk due to decreased estrogen
๐ Higher LDL (“bad cholesterol”)
2. Osteoporosis
๐ Bone loss up to 5% per year
๐ Higher fracture risk (spine, wrist, hip)
3. Urinary Problems
๐ Burning during urination
๐ Urinary incontinence
4. Weight Gain
๐ Increased abdominal fat due to slower metabolism
Management & Treatment
1. Hot Flashes
๐ Avoid heat and spicy foods
๐ Reduce caffeine and alcohol
๐ Manage stress
๐ Take vitamin E and B-complex
2. Vaginal Dryness
๐ Use lubricants
๐ Use topical estrogen creams
3. Sleep & Mood Issues
๐ Antidepressants if needed
๐ Stress-relieving activities
4. Osteoporosis Prevention
๐ Calcium and vitamin D intake
๐ Avoid excessive physical strain
5. Hair Loss
๐ Estrogen therapy
๐ Proper scalp care and hygiene
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
HRT replaces declining estrogen to relieve symptoms and reduce disease risk.
Forms of HRT
๐ Oral tablets
๐ Injections
๐ Skin patches
๐ Implants
๐ Topical creams
๐ Vaginal creams
Benefits of HRT
๐ Reduces hot flashes
๐ Improves mood and sleep
๐ Prevents osteoporosis
๐ Reduces vaginal dryness
๐ Helps lower risk of heart disease
Who Should Avoid HRT
๐ History of breast or uterine cancer
๐ Liver disease
๐ Blood clots
๐ Unexplained abnormal bleeding
Side Effects
๐ Breast tenderness
๐ Bloating
๐ Vaginal bleeding
Risks of Long-Term Use
๐ Increased risk of breast and uterine cancer
๐ Risk of gallstones (especially oral form)
Important Advice
๐ Apply topical estrogen 1 g/day (if prescribed)
๐ Apply on thighs or arms
๐ Avoid breast, abdomen, and genital areas
Summary
Menopause is a natural stage of life, but it can affect physical and mental health.
source : Bangkok Hospital Phuket
**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team
Independent Writer
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