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Menopause, which is an important turning point in a woman's life. A lot of people are both expecting and dreading it. So, how can you tell if you've entered menopause? Some symptoms are very typical and can be initially assessed by self-examination. This article will detail these symptoms and provide scientific evidence and a controlled self-checklist to help you better understand your physical condition.
Definition and stages of menopause
Menopause is an important stage in a woman's life and usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. This stage marks a gradual decline in ovarian function, which eventually leads to the cessation of menstruation. Menopause is usually divided into the following stages:
Perimenopause: Starts with hormonal changes in the years leading up to menopause and lasts until one year after menopause. This phase is usually accompanied by irregular menstruation.
Menopause: This is the central stage of menopause and marks the complete cessation of menstruation.
Postmenopause: Begins one year after the end of menopause and continues until the end of life.
In this process, women's physiological and psychological states will change significantly, which requires scientific methods for self-assessment and management.
Common symptoms of menopause
A prominent sign of menopause is the irregularity of the menstrual cycle. As ovarian function gradually declines, a woman's menstrual cycle may become irregular until it stops completely. This change is usually caused by fluctuations in hormone levels.
Hot flashes and night sweats are among the most common symptoms in menopausal women. Hot flashes usually manifest as a sudden body fever accompanied by redness of the face and neck that lasts from a few minutes to half an hour. Night sweats are sweating at night. These symptoms are closely related to a decrease in estrogen levels in the body.
Menopausal women often complain of decreased sleep quality, difficulty falling asleep, or waking up easily. This is associated with hormonal fluctuations as well as hot flashes and night sweats. More than 60% of women experience sleep problems at this stage.
Hormonal changes not only affect the body, but also the mood. Menopausal women may experience mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even depression. Psychological support and therapy can be effective in relieving these symptoms.
As estrogen levels decline, the vaginal mucosa thins and lubrication decreases, leading to vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. This symptom is especially common in the postmenopausal period.
Menopause is a physiological stage that every woman must go through, and its symptoms and effects vary from person to person. Through scientific self-examination and understanding of the relevant symptoms, women can better manage their health at this stage.
If the score in the self-checklist is more than 6 points, it is advisable to consult a doctor for further evaluation and treatment as soon as possible. In addition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a positive mindset is essential for a smooth menopause.
Finally, what experiences and insights would you like to share? Feel free to leave a message in the comment area!
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