Postmenopause

What is postmenopause?

Postmenopause refers to the time after a woman has gone through menopause, which marks the end of menstruation and fertility. Typically, menopause happens between the ages of 45-55.

Once a woman has gone 12 months without a period, she has reached menopause. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause, when hormone levels become irregular but a woman can still get pregnant.

After menopause, a woman is considered to be in postmenopause. This stage lasts for the rest of her life. Some key things to know:

• Hormone levels like estrogen and progesterone are lower and no longer fluctuate like they did during the reproductive years
• The risk of medical issues like osteoporosis and heart disease increases for some women
• Bothersome menopause symptoms like hot flashes may continue or get better
• A woman can no longer get pregnant in postmenopause

To ease the transition, I recommend speaking with your doctor about lifestyle changes and potential therapies. For instance, hormone therapy may help relieve stubborn symptoms.

The experts at Harmony Hormone Therapy specialize in personalized hormone replacement therapy to help women thrive in perimenopause and beyond. I highly recommend scheduling a consultation with them.

Some other tips for managing postmenopause:

• Stay active with weight-bearing exercises to support bone health
• Eat a nutritious diet high in calcium and vitamin D
• Ask your doctor about supplements if needed
• Reduce stress through yoga, meditation, or keeping a journal
• Get enough sleep and maintain a routine when possible

The postmenopause stage can last upwards of 30 years, so it’s worthwhile to optimize your health during this time. While menopause marks the end of fertility, it opens the door to new beginnings. With proper care, postmenopause can be a rewarding chapter!

Let me know if you have any other questions on this important transition. Wishing you the best on your journey.