About Menopause

In simplest terms, menopause is the cessation of menses or menstrual cycles for one year. This natural process does not happen overnight, but rather it is part of a longer life transition, a period of some 10 to 15 years. During this time, a woman's reproductive system gradually changes.

This process is called the climacteric and it is a time when the ovaries gradually stop producing eggs as well as large amounts of the hormones, estrogen and progesterone. The climacteric is also called "change of life" because it encompasses the emotional and intellectual changes, as well as the physical ones, that occur during this natural phase of a woman's life. Some physicians refer to the period around menopause as peri-menopause.

Menopause has been referred to as "estrogen dominance", a term coined by Dr. John Lee. It is typical during this state of hormonal imbalance for a woman to experience any or all of the following symptoms due to increased levels of estrogen relative to progesterone because of decreased ovulation.

* irritability
* hot flashes
* increased facial hair
* menstrual cycle changes (longer or shorter cycles, cramping, blood clots)
* increased carbohydrate cravings
* reduced libido, vaginal dryness, or painful intercourse
* mood swings
* weight gain
* anxiety
* sleep disturbances (may or may not have night sweats)
* memory or concentration problems
* change in body temperature, may include intolerance to cold.

Approximately 10 to 15% of women go through menopause with little or no symptoms, while others experience severe problems. Postmenopausally, a woman’s risk of developing osteoporosis or heart disease increases dramatically.
It should be kept in mind that menopause is not a disease and, therefore, it may not require medical treatment. By becoming aware of her symptoms, becoming educated about treatment options and becoming a pro-active patient, the woman who is experiencing menopause often can make this natural transition easier. Further, we encourage the woman to establish a "triad of health" between herself, her doctor and her pharmacist in order to achieve optimal healthcare during menopause.

Reference: What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause by John R. Lee, M.D. and Virginia Hopkins, Warner Books 2004 (372 Pages)