Menopause

What is Menopause?

Menopause, or the cessation of the menstrual cycle, occurs in women usually between the ages of 38 and 58.

It is the result of the loss of having a monthly period and is a natural occurrence that affects all women. Menopausal symptoms may also follow a hysterectomy. Symptoms of menopause can come on suddenly or over a period of time.

Usually menstruation stops, slowly decreasing a little each month or the periods may stop for a few months and then start again. These symptoms may only last a few months or may continue for up to five years. There is no absolute.

Menopause is not the end of womanhood or sexuality. For some, the opposite is true. Menopause is only the end of the reproductive cycle; it is not a sign of old age. This change has nothing to do with greying of the hair or a loss of sexual desire; post-menopausal women can live a very enjoyable and active life in all respects.

Causes of Menopause

At menopause, a woman stops ovulating, and her ovaries stop producing oestrogen and progesterone.

In addition to its role in reproduction, oestrogen is required to stimulate receptors in the vagina, bladder, breasts, skin, bones, arteries, heart, liver and brain, and to promote normal function of these organs.

For example, oestrogen is required to keep the skin and vaginal tract moisturised and supple, keep calcium in the bones, maintain a balanced body temperature and keep the blood vessels unclogged. Cholesterol levels can increase after menopause. Menopausal symptoms may also follow a hysterectomy, or be due to an underlying hormonal disorder.

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