Menopause and menopausal syndrome: what happens in a woman’s body? Precursors, hot flashes, symptoms and manifestations, diagnosis of menopause (menopause). Diseases associated with menopause (uterine fibroids, endometrial hyperplasia and others)

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Climax- this is the depletion of the female sex glands - the ovaries, which every woman inevitably experiences. And although menopause is a completely physiological process, and not a pathology, every woman experiences different symptoms and requires observation from her gynecologist and treatment.

All the rich symptoms of menopause are the result of a deficiency of female sex hormones, which play a huge role in a woman’s life. Probably there is not a single organ in female body, in the activity of which sex hormones would not participate. Therefore, during menopause, changes affect the entire body as a whole, including appearance, psycho-emotional state and sexual life.

What happens in a woman's body?

Ovaries during menopause

The ovaries undergo irreversible changes during menopause. As has already become clear, at all stages of menopause, a change in their functions occurs. Ovarian activity decreases in premenopause and stops completely at postmenopausal.

In addition to their functions, the ovaries change their shape, size and structure. At the initial stages, the ovaries slightly decrease in size; a small number of follicles can still be found in them. After the onset of menopause, they seem to shrink, their size decreases several times, follicles are not identified in them, and the ovarian tissue is gradually replaced by connective tissue - that is, tissue devoid of any function.

Changes in the uterus and endometrium during menopause

The uterus also reacts to hormonal imbalances. During normal menstrual cycle it constantly undergoes physiological changes necessary to prepare for the consolidation of the fertilized egg. Special changes occur in the inner layer of the uterus - the endometrium; it is renewed monthly, rejected during menstruation and thickens after ovulation. And all this under the influence of estrogen and progesterone.

Involution in the uterus and fallopian tubes during menopause:

• Premenopausal the uterus increases slightly in size, but becomes less dense.
• After menopause the uterus decreases in size several times.
• Myometrium , or the muscular layer of the uterus gradually atrophies, in postmenopause it is replaced by connective tissue - that is, it loses its contractile functions.
• Still at the beginning of menopause endometrium of the uterus , or its inner layer gradually becomes thinner, by menopause it is also replaced by connective tissue - the internal cavity of the uterus is overgrown.
• Cervix also shortens, the cervical canal connecting the uterus with the vagina significantly narrows or becomes completely overgrown. The functioning of the mucous glands located on the cervix is ​​also disrupted, which reduces the amount of vaginal mucus, or “lubrication.”
• The fallopian tubes gradually atrophy, their patency disappears, and over time they also become overgrown with connective tissue.
• Ligaments and muscles weaken , which support the uterus and appendages in the pelvis. As a result, the risk of vaginal and uterine prolapse increases.

How does menopause affect the vagina and external genitalia?

Female hormones are responsible for the elasticity, firmness and moisture of the vagina, which is necessary for normal sexual life and fertilization. With the decline of the ovaries and estrogen deficiency, changes also occur in the vagina that bring unpleasant discomfort to women.

Changes in the vagina during menopause:

• A gradual loss of elasticity and firmness of the vagina, thinning of its walls, as a result - it narrows and does not stretch well during sexual intercourse, bringing pain to the woman.
• Decreased vaginal secretion, or “lubrication.” The vagina becomes dry and poorly lubricated during sexual arousal.
• The acidity of vaginal mucus changes, which reduces local immunity, leads to disruption of microflora (dysbiosis, thrush) and increases the risk of infection with sexually transmitted diseases.
• There is fragility of the vessels that nourish the vaginal wall, which can be manifested by bloody discharge.

During menopause changes and appearance external genitalia:

• The labia majora become flabby due to the loss of adipose tissue;
• the labia minora gradually atrophy;
• Pubic hair is thinning.

Processes in the mammary glands

The condition of the mammary glands directly depends on female sex hormones. They constantly undergo changes associated with the menstrual cycle and lactation. During menopause, as in the genitals, changes also occur in the mammary glands (involution, or reverse development), because there are few sex hormones, there is no menstrual cycle, and breastfeeding is no longer useful.

Physiological involution of the mammary glands during menopause:
1. Fat involution – replacement of the glandular component of the mammary glands with adipose tissue, which does not carry specific functions.
2. Fibrous involution – replacement of glandular tissue with connective tissue. In this form, the reverse development of the mammary glands can be complicated by the formation of tumors and cysts, which are usually benign in nature, but always have a risk of malignancy. This process is called fibrocystic involution.
3. Fibrofatty involution – The mammary gland consists of fat and connective tissue.

What does the mammary gland look like after menopause?

• During premenopause, the mammary glands may become denser, swell, and slightly increase in size.
• After menopause, the mammary glands become soft, sag, change their size; in overweight women they increase in size due to excess fat, and in thin women, on the contrary, they decrease and can atrophy completely.
• The nipple also changes, it sags, decreases in size, and turns pale.

Skin during menopause. What does a woman look like after menopause?

Female hormones are the beauty of a woman, beautiful skin, hair, a toned face and figure, attractiveness. And the saddest thing that happens during menopause is the appearance of age-related changes, that is, aging. Of course, the pace of aging is different for every woman. Everything is very individual. Some girls are already covered with wrinkles at 30, while other ladies even look very young at 50. But with the onset of menopause, everything becomes very noticeable, because changes in the skin cannot be avoided.

What changes in appearance may women experience after menopause?

1. Wrinkles, sagging skin. In the skin, the processes of formation of its own collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid deteriorate, that is, the skin frame becomes loose and flabby. The result is wrinkles, dry skin, sagging facial and body contours.
2. Tired appearance, morning swelling. Under the influence of a lack of hormones and cardiovascular problems, skin microcirculation is disrupted, which worsens metabolic processes in it. The skin suffers from a lack of oxygen and nutrients, and harmful compounds accumulate in it. Subsequently, the skin fades, turns pale, and looks tired. Red spots associated with dilated blood vessels (rosacea) may appear. Poor blood circulation is also associated with morning swelling of the face and limbs.
3. Skin inflammation. Sex hormones regulate the functioning of the sebaceous and sweat glands, which protect the skin from negative factors environment. Therefore, with a deficiency of female hormones, the skin becomes sensitive, easily irritated, and various inflammatory dermatological problems appear. Seborrheic dermatitis may appear, as well as acne and acne, which are commonly associated with adolescence.
4. Age Pigment spots are more confusing to many than wrinkles and sagging skin. They cover not only the body, but also the face.
Causes of age spots after menopause:

• A disorder of pigment metabolism, which probably involves sex hormones. In this case, the excess melanin pigment is not “utilized”, but accumulates in the skin.
• The protective layer of the skin is weakened, so it is more susceptible to sunlight, which stimulates the production of excess melanin.
• By menopausal age, problems with the liver often appear, which is also involved in the metabolism of pigments.
• Many experts believe that age spots are manifestations of atherosclerosis, and since during menopause this pathology often progresses, the number of spots becomes more and more numerous.

Age spots on the skin can be in the form of ordinary dark spots that merge with each other (chloasma), freckles, which are located more on the hands, and also in the form of plaques (keratomas, xanthelasmas), which are dangerous due to the risk of malignancy.
5. Increased hair loss - hair thins, becomes drier, stiffer, brittle, lacking shine and natural color. For those who have not yet gone gray before, gray hair appears. Eyelashes and eyebrows are thinning.
6. May be noted hair growth in unwanted places , for example, antennae, individual hairs on the cheeks, back.
7. Changes in figure associated with excess weight gain, sagging skin, and redistribution of fat throughout the body. In addition, over time after menopause, posture changes and even a person’s height decreases, which is associated with age-related changes in the bones.

Why is menopause dangerous for bones?

Throughout life, bone tissue is constantly renewed, or, as experts call this process, remodeling. In this case, the bone tissue is partially resorbed and new tissue is formed in its place (osteoformation). Remodeling is planned at the genetic level and is regulated by many metabolic processes and hormones, including sex hormones; this is a very complex process. Without a sufficient amount of estrogen during menopause, bone formation is disrupted, and the bone is gradually destroyed. Also, as a result of menopause, the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, minerals that are responsible for bone strength, is disrupted.

Such changes in the skeletal system lead to the slow destruction of bone tissue, or osteoporosis, to increased bone fragility and various degenerative processes in them.

Menopause, heart and blood pressure

Estrogens during childbearing years protect women from the development of cardiovascular diseases. But as soon as their level drops, the risk of developing atherosclerosis and arterial hypertension with all its consequences increases several times.

How does a deficiency of sex hormones affect blood vessels?

• During menopause, fat metabolism is disrupted. Excess fat, namely cholesterol, is deposited not only on the sides, but also on the walls of blood vessels, that is, atherosclerosis develops. Atherosclerotic plaques gradually increase and narrow the lumen of blood vessels, which leads to poor circulation and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Menopause affects the processes of narrowing and dilation of blood vessels. These processes are necessary for the body to adapt to physical or emotional stress. Normally, vascular tone is regulated by the autonomic nervous system, but with a lack of estrogen, this regulation is disrupted, which leads to spontaneous vascular spasms or, conversely, a decrease in vascular tone. This is manifested by surges in blood pressure, the development of arterial hypertension, worsening atherosclerosis, the development of arrhythmias and coronary heart disease.
• Blood clotting increases. Estrogens thin the blood, and when they are deficient, the blood becomes thick, prone to the formation of blood clots and atherosclerotic plaques. The result is a worsening of atherosclerosis, circulatory disorders and an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and thromboembolism.

Menopause and the thyroid gland

Thyroid and ovarian hormones are always interrelated. Just as with diseases of the thyroid gland, a woman’s reproductive function is disrupted, so with menopause, malfunctions of the thyroid gland can occur.

It's all about the hormones of the central nervous system that regulate the function of these organs, namely follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormone (FSH and LH) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). They are very similar in their chemical structure. When the body undergoes restructuring at the beginning of menopause, the level of FSH and LH increases, they react to the lack of sex hormones and try to “stimulate” the ovaries to produce them. And under stress, which occurs during menopause, the thyroid gland may begin to perceive FSH and LH instead of TSH, which is often manifested by an increase in its functions and the release of a large amount of hormones. Such an imbalance of thyroid hormones leads to metabolic disorders and requires urgent specific treatment.

Menopause and the nervous system

The nervous system suffers the most during menopause. Besides that female hormones participate in various “nervous processes”; menopause and aging for a woman are always stress, both somatic (bodily) and psycho-emotional. This is what aggravates the development of nervous disorders.

What happens in the nervous system with the onset of menopause?

• Sex hormones influence the autonomic nervous system , which is responsible for the work of all internal organs, blood vessels and the body’s adaptation to various environmental factors, that is, for all internal processes. With an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone, the work of the autonomic nervous system is disrupted, as a result of which there are rich symptoms of menopause: these are hot flashes and disturbances in vascular tone, the functioning of the heart and other organs.
• The influence of female hormones on the central nervous system. In the brain, the processes of excitation and inhibition of the nervous system are disrupted, this is manifested by increased emotionality, depression, emotional outbursts, sleep disturbances and other mental disorders. In addition, the lack of sex hormones affects brain structures such as the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, which are responsible for the production of many hormones, including serotonin, norepinephrine and endorphins - the hormones of happiness.
• Mental disorders are aggravated by depression , into which a woman “drives” herself. She realizes that she is getting old, it seems to her that she has become ugly, that she has not had time to do much, has not achieved much. Besides, Sex life also suffers , which is known to be an integral part of inner peace and satisfaction. And it’s also difficult to survive hot flashes and other unpleasant symptoms of menopause.

Symptoms and manifestations of menopause in women

Deficiency of sex hormones during menopause affects many systems, organs and processes in the body. All these disorders cannot pass without a trace, therefore, with the onset of menopause, various symptoms appear that bring discomfort and drive some women to despair.

Symptoms and manifestations of menopause are very individual. We are all unique, every fifth woman does not feel any changes in her health at all. Menopause is easier to endure for people who lead a healthy lifestyle, have interesting hobbies, are in demand in the family and are ready to meet their interesting adulthood with dignity.

Harbingers

Experts believe that the harbingers of menopause appear already at the age of 30-40 years or even earlier, long before the onset of perimenopause, and these are:

• problems with conceiving and bearing a child or decreased fertility after 30 years;
• hormone-dependent gynecological diseases, for example, endometriosis, ovarian cysts;
• diseases of the mammary glands, mastopathy;
• disruptions of the menstrual cycle, heavy or scanty menstruation, menstrual cycles without ovulation.

All these conditions are associated with an imbalance of female sex hormones and require mandatory treatment by a gynecologist-endocrinologist.

The onset and first signs of menopause, menstrual irregularities

The onset of menopause is always characterized by menstrual irregularities. Against the background of menstruation failure, other symptoms associated with a lack of estrogen gradually develop. All these manifestations are combined into climacteric syndrome, which manifests itself very individually in each woman. Usually one of the first symptoms of menopause are hot flashes and disturbances in the psycho-emotional state.

The menstrual cycle is completely dependent on hormones that are produced by the ovaries and the central nervous system (releasing hormones, LH and FSH). At the very beginning of menopause, the female cycle does not stop yet, but obvious disruptions are already noticeable, periods become irregular and completely unpredictable. Also, most menstruation occurs without ovulation, that is, without the maturation of the egg.

In what form and with what regularity menstruation will occur traditionally depends on individual characteristics. But we can identify some Variants of menstrual irregularities in premenopause:

1. Lengthening the cycle (more than 30 days), scanty menstruation . This is the most common type of menstrual irregularity before menopause. In this case, the period between menstruation can be several months, and after 2-3 years menopause occurs, that is, the complete cessation of menstruation.

2. Abrupt cessation of menstruation , one might say, in one day. Doesn't happen that often. In this case, the development of two options for the course of menopause is possible: a woman crosses this stage in her life practically without any discomfort, or menopause is more severe, which is due to the fact that the body does not have time to adapt to the sudden change hormonal levels.

Why do hot flashes appear during menopause?

The mechanism of development of tides is so complex and multicomponent that it has not yet been fully studied. But many experts believe that the main mechanism for the development of hot flashes is the “suffering” of the central and autonomic nervous system from a lack of sex hormones.

Modern research has proven that the main trigger in the development of hot flashes is the hypothalamus, a structure in the brain whose main function is to regulate the production of most hormones and control thermoregulation, that is, the maintenance normal temperature body under the influence of various environmental factors. During menopause, in addition to the ovaries, the hypothalamus is also rebuilt, because it disrupts the production of releasing hormones, which stimulate the pituitary gland and then the ovaries. As a result, thermoregulation is also disrupted as a side effect.

In addition, menopause affects the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, sweat glands and the cardiovascular system. Obviously, the complex of all these reactions of the body to the lack of gonads manifests itself in the form of attacks of hot flashes.

What are the symptoms of hot flashes during menopause?

1. Not all women feel the warning signs of hot flashes; many are taken by surprise. Before the onset of hot flashes, tinnitus and headaches may appear - this is due to cerebral vascular spasm.
2. Throws you into a fever - many people describe the sudden onset of a hot flash in this way, the head and upper body seem to be doused with boiling water, the skin becomes bright red and hot to the touch. At the same time, the body temperature rises above 38 o C, but it will soon return to normal.
3. Increased sweating occurs, drops of sweat immediately appear, which quickly flow down in streams. Many women describe that their hair and clothes become so wet that “you can almost squeeze it out.”
4. General well-being is disturbed - the heartbeat accelerates, headaches and weakness appear. Against this background, nausea and dizziness may appear. Severe hot flashes can even lead to short-term fainting.
5. The feeling of heat is replaced by chills - due to the fact that the skin becomes wet from sweat and thermoregulation is impaired, the woman freezes, muscle tremors begin, which can persist for some time. After an attack, muscles may ache due to muscle tremors.
6. Violation of the psycho-emotional state - during a hot flash, an acute attack of fear and panic occurs, the woman may begin to cry, and may feel short of breath. After this, the woman feels devastated, depressed, and severe weakness develops. With frequent hot flashes, depression may develop.

These are the symptoms described by women who have experienced severe hot flashes. However, not everyone experiences menopause this way. Hot flashes can be short-term, milder, without affecting general and psycho-emotional well-being. Often ladies feel only increased sweating and heat. Some women experience nocturnal hot flashes in their sleep, and only a wet pillow indicates a past attack. Many experts believe that the severity of hot flashes directly depends on the psychological state of a woman, but there are a number of factors that often provoke the development of hot flashes.

Irritating factors that provoke hot flashes:

• Stuffiness: poorly ventilated room, large crowds of people, high humidity on a hot day.
• Heat: prolonged exposure to the sun, clothing out of season, heating of premises with fireplaces and other heat sources, bathhouse or sauna.
• Anxiety: stress, emotional distress, nervous exhaustion, fatigue and lack of sleep.
• Food and drinks: hot, spicy, sweet, too spicy food, hot and strong drinks, coffee, strong tea and overeating.
• Smoking, namely the addiction to nicotine itself. Often a rush appears during a long break between cigarettes and with a strong desire to smoke.
• Poor quality clothes , poorly permeable to moisture and air, leads to overheating of the body, and wearing such things can provoke a hot flash.

In principle, if a woman avoids exposure to these factors, she can control hot flashes, and if she adds good emotions to all this, then menopause will go much easier.

How long do hot flashes last during menopause?

The hot flashes themselves can last from a few seconds to several minutes; this is very individual. There may be not one such attack per day, or maybe several dozen.

Individually and how long they will have to be experienced. Statistics show that almost all women experience hot flashes for at least 2 years (from 2 to 11 years). But some “lucky” women have to experience these hot flashes for many years after menopause and even throughout their lives. The duration and severity of hot flashes largely depend on when they began: with early menopause and a long period of perimenopause, hot flashes last longer.

What do tides affect?

• Psycho-emotional state of a woman, self-confidence.
• Immunity – impaired thermoregulation reduces the body’s ability to adequately respond to infections and other external factors.
• There may be fears of leaving the house so that people do not see her in this state.
• Prolonged depression against the background of severe hot flashes is not only a manifestation psychological problems, but also increase the risk of developing other pathologies, for example, psoriasis, diabetes, arterial hypertension and many “mental” diseases.
• Some women experience hot flashes so badly that they even have to resort to emergency medical services.

It must be remembered that hot flashes and menopause itself are a normal reaction of the body, which is not any pathology, much less something shameful and shameful. Moreover, many modern women Not only are they not shy about this, but they are also ready to discuss it. It is important to prepare for menopause in advance, change your lifestyle, get everything from life, especially positive emotions, and listen to your body. All this will not only ease the symptoms of menopause, but will also allow you to move to a new stage of life with ease and dignity.

Menopausal syndrome

As already mentioned, menopausal syndrome occurs differently in each woman. It represents a huge complex of symptoms and manifestations from various organs and systems. Many of these symptoms are still experienced by most women, to varying degrees and severity. Menstrual irregularities and hot flashes are essential components of menopause. Other manifestations may be absent or unrecognized; women often associate poor health with fatigue or other diseases.

Symptoms depend on the phase of menopause. Thus, during premenopause, more pronounced symptoms are observed, but after menopause, the risk of developing many diseases that are often not associated with the manifestations of menopause increases.

Symptoms of the premenopausal period - from the first manifestations of menopause to 2 years of complete absence of menstruation

Symptoms	How do they manifest themselves?
Tides	sudden feeling of heat; profuse sweating; skin redness; increased body temperature; chills; severe weakness and cardiac dysfunction; psycho-emotional disorders.
Excessive sweating	may accompany hot flashes and be a separate manifestation of estrogen deficiency; often occurs at night; Because of this symptom, many women have to change clothes several times a day and use the most “powerful” antiperspirants.
Increased body temperature	an increase in temperature may be associated with a hot flash or manifest as a separate symptom; during high tides, the temperature can exceed 38 o C; prolonged subfebrile condition or temperature up to 37 o C may be observed.
Discomfort in the mammary glands	swelling and puffiness; nagging pain in the chest; changes no longer depend on the phase of the menstrual cycle.
Insomnia And drowsiness	it’s hard to fall asleep at night; I constantly want to sleep during the day; Often women in menopause have bad dreams that are so vivid and realistic that they retain negativity for the whole day.
Headache	may be severe or aching; often develops for no apparent reason, at any time of the day, including morning and night; often has the character of a migraine ( sharp pain in one half of the head); difficult to relieve with conventional analgesics.
Weakness, increased fatigue	this symptom accompanies almost all women during menopause; often weakness and fatigue occur already in the first half of the day, both after mental or physical activity, and without it; performance decreases, memory, concentration and attention deteriorate, absent-mindedness appears.
Irritability , tearfulness, anxiety and a lump in the throat	even the most reserved women can lash out at loved ones over trifles; often this symptom is accompanied by an attack of hysteria; ladies become touchy and impressionable, it seems to them that no one understands them; constant or sudden anxiety, many have bad “premonitions” of impending trouble, all this is accompanied by pathological fears; “pessimism” prevails over “optimism”, and negative emotions over positive ones; a woman may stop enjoying life as much as before, but the interesting thing is that during the postmenopausal period, love and joy for life not only returns, but also becomes much stronger than in her youth.
Depression, chronic stress	this is the result not only of a lack of hormones, but also of an unwillingness to realize the fact of the onset of menopause; Nervous exhaustion due to fatigue, poor sleep, lack of sex, hot flashes and other manifestations of menopause “adds fuel to the fire.”
Feeling of heartbeat	Most often, an increased heart rate or tachycardia occurs. Typically, tachycardia occurs spontaneously and goes away on its own.
Urinary dysfunction	the risk of developing cystitis increases.
Sex, fertility and perimenopause	decreased sexual desire (libido); slight dryness appears in the vagina; sexual intercourse may become painful (dyspareunia); Natural pregnancy is still possible.
Other manifestations	the first signs of skin aging: dryness, shallow wrinkles, decreased skin tone, etc.; hair and nails become brittle; blood cholesterol may increase; some women begin to gain excess weight.

Symptoms of the postmenopausal period - 1 year after the last menstruation and until the end of life

Symptoms	How do they manifest themselves?
Hot flashes, sweating and psychoemotional disorders	hot flashes usually become less frequent and easier; after a few years, in most women, hot flashes disappear completely; irritability, tearfulness, and fatigue persist, but it gets better every month and year; insomnia and weakness persist for several more years, and some women do not get enough sleep for a long time.
Excess weight	many women gain weight, which is associated with a sedentary lifestyle, a slower metabolism, and also with the fact that the body tries to compensate for the lack of estrogen by producing it in adipose tissue; The type of figure also changes, fat is redistributed to the abdominal and upper shoulder girdle, the skin sags, and posture changes.
Muscle weakness	lack of hormones leads to weakening and sagging muscle tissue, muscles sag, and their performance is significantly reduced; “building muscles” through sports becomes much more difficult than at a younger age.
Vaginal dryness	pain during sexual intercourse; feeling of discomfort while wearing tight underwear and clothes; high risk of developing thrush and other inflammatory processes vagina.
Vaginal discharge, itching and burning	Vaginal discharge is normal after menopause if it is: transparent, odorless and colorless, its quantity is scanty and, most importantly, does not cause any discomfort or itching; the presence of itching, burning and unusual discharge indicate the presence of inflammatory and other problems, are not a normal condition, a visit to a gynecologist is required; odorless yellowish discharge, itching and discomfort during sexual intercourse indicate vaginal dysbiosis - the most common condition of the genital organs after the onset of menopause; curd discharge with a sour smell indicates vaginal candidiasis (thrush); discharge with a specific odor indicates the addition of various pathogenic infections, including sexually transmitted ones; brown and bloody issues from the vagina may be associated with increased fragility of the vessels of the vaginal mucosa, in which case blood appears to a greater extent after sexual intercourse, but also blood from the vagina can be a sign of tumors in the uterus and appendages, including malignant ones.
Urinary dysfunction	the urge to urinate becomes more frequent; a very high risk of developing urethritis and cystitis, as a result – the risk of developing kidney inflammation (pyelonephritis); Some women may experience urinary incontinence, especially during physical exertion, and the saying “you might wet yourself from laughter” is no longer so funny.
Sex and fertility	Libido continues to decline, although some women, on the contrary, develop a special interest in sex, such as they did not have in their youth; pain increases during sex due to vaginal dryness and poor elasticity of its walls; natural pregnancy is no longer possible.
Skin, hair and nails	noticeable aging of the skin occurs, it becomes dry, flabby, sagging, deep age-related wrinkles appear, and not only on the face; the natural blush disappears, the skin of the face becomes dull, looks tired, problems with acne and acne appear; swelling of the eyelids often appears; the hair splits, becomes thin, dull, turns gray, and there is also increased hair loss; over time, the braid becomes much thinner; It is becoming increasingly difficult to grow nails for a beautiful manicure; they become brittle and often lose their color.
High risk of developing various diseases	osteoporosis – deformation of bone tissue; cardiovascular pathologies (arterial hypertension, atherosclerosis, arrhythmia, angina pectoris and others); diseases of the uterus and appendages (fibroids, ovarian cysts, polyps, cancer), vaginal and uterine prolapse; pathologies of the mammary glands (mastopathy, cancer); diabetes mellitus, pathologies of the thyroid gland and adrenal glands; diseases of the nervous system (vegetative-vascular dystonia, strokes, mental disorders and diseases); diseases digestive system(cholelithiasis, constipation, hemorrhoids); infections of the genitourinary system and others.

Diseases during menopause

One of the manifestations of menopause after menopause is the risk of developing various diseases. This does not mean that all women during menopause should suddenly begin to suffer from all diseases. Everything largely depends not so much on the level of hormones, but on lifestyle, genetic predisposition and many environmental factors. In addition, many of these diseases can develop without menopause at a younger age. And men, who are not so dependent on estrogen, also suffer from these ailments. But many scientific research It has been proven that it is the deficiency of sex hormones that is the trigger for the development of many of the “age-related” pathologies. Let's look at some of them.

Diseases associated with menopause:

Disease	Factors and reasons that increase the risk of developing the disease	Main symptoms	Why is it dangerous?	How to reduce and prevent the manifestations of the disease?
Osteoporosis– a decrease in bone density, a lack of calcium, phosphorus and other minerals in them, leads to the gradual destruction of bone tissue.	heredity; smoking; alcohol; sedentary lifestyle; excess weight; rare exposure to sunlight; unbalanced diet; diseases of the digestive and endocrine system.	bone pain, especially “in the weather”; impaired movement in some joints; weakness, decrease physical strength, slowness; spinal deformation, manifested by impaired movements and posture, pain and decreased height; deformation of fingers, toes and other bones; brittle nails, dental disease and hair loss.	Pathological bone fractures, which can occur even with the slightest injury and simply unsuccessful movements. Fractures are difficult to heal and can confine a woman to the bed for a long time. Impaired cerebral circulation as a result of osteochondrosis of the cervical and/or thoracic spine.	Correct lifestyle; a diet rich in calcium and phosphorus; moderate sunbathing; moderate physical activity, proper work and rest schedule; fight against excess weight; avoid falls, injuries, awkward movements; Hormone replacement therapy with sex hormones reduces the manifestations of osteoporosis; taking calcium supplements: Calcium D3, Ergocalciferol and many others.
Uterine fibroids are a benign tumor of the uterus associated with an imbalance of sex hormones. Myoma may be different sizes, single or multiple. It often occurs against the background of menopause, and after menopause, small myomatous nodes are able to resolve on their own.	Abortion and uterine surgery; absence of childbirth; endometriosis; irregular sex life; chronic stress; early menarche (first menstruation); excess weight; abuse of animal food; alcohol abuse; heredity; Late pregnancy can worsen the growth of fibroids.	Long, frequent and heavy menstruation; spotting not associated with the monthly cycle; increase in abdominal volume; frequent urge to urinate; constipation; pain during intercourse.	Uterine bleeding, including massive bleeding. Pelvioperitonitis associated with torsion of the myoma node requires surgical intervention. Cancer is a malignancy of a tumor.	Hormone replacement therapy; healthy image life; regular sex; prevention of sexually transmitted diseases; fight against excess weight; regular observation by a gynecologist.
Ovarian cysts– benign cavity formations. During menopause, dermoid, endometrioid and other types of non-functional cysts, as well as polycystic ovaries, often occur.	Endocrine diseases of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, brain; abortions and operations; inflammatory diseases pelvic organs; sexually transmitted infections; genetic predisposition; taking contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy with sex hormones.	Pain in the abdomen, lower abdomen or lower back, aggravated by physical activity and sexual intercourse; difficulty urinating and constipation; asymmetrical abdominal enlargement; spotting bloody discharge; painful menstruation in premenopause.	Cancer – nonfunctional cysts have a high risk of malignancy. Cyst rupture, ovarian rupture and cyst pedicle torsion are conditions that require urgent surgical treatment.	Annual examination by a gynecologist and timely treatment of gynecological problems; if necessary, surgical treatment; prevention of sexually transmitted infections; healthy lifestyle and “no” to carcinogens.
Uterine bleeding– bleeding from the vagina of various types, associated or not associated with menstruation.	In premenopause, bleeding is often associated with hormonal changes during menopause and menstrual irregularities; endometriosis; uterine fibroids; uterine polyposis; pathologies of the cervix; polycystic and other ovarian cysts; spontaneous abortions.	Options for uterine bleeding during premenopause: long and heavy menstruation (more than 6 pads per day and more than 7 days); periodic spotting and spotting not associated with menstruation; the presence of large blood clots, lumps during menstruation or between them; frequent periods (more than every 3 weeks); spotting that appears after sexual intercourse; prolonged bleeding of varying intensity (more than 1-3 months). After menopause, any spotting should be a cause for concern.	Cancer. Uterine bleeding can be a sign of serious illnesses, including cancer. Anemia – with prolonged and heavy bleeding leads to blood loss. Hemorrhagic shock - can develop with massive uterine bleeding, requires urgent resuscitation, surgical intervention and blood product transfusions.	Timely consultation with a doctor to determine the causes of bleeding and their correction; food rich in protein and iron; control over the amount of blood lost.
Mastopathy– benign tumor of the mammary glands.	Involution of the mammary glands associated with hormonal changes; early onset of menstruation and early puberty; various diseases of the uterus and appendages, especially inflammatory ones; lack of lactation or short period of breastfeeding; no pregnancies before the age of 30; abortions and miscarriages; stress; excess weight; taking contraceptives and other hormonal drugs in large doses; endocrine pathologies. heart attack; heart failure.	Proper lifestyle and nutrition; Regular physical activity; fight against excess weight; diabetes control; regular use of medications containing aspirin; blood pressure control; timely consultation with a doctor and compliance with his recommendations.

Diseases associated with menopause can be prevented not only by hormone replacement therapy, often recommended during severe menopause, but also by a correct lifestyle and regular examinations with your gynecologist.

Menopause is one of the causes of panic attacks in women (opinion of a psychotherapist) - video

Diseases during menopause: obesity, diabetes, uterine prolapse, thrombosis, Alzheimer's disease - video

Diagnosis of menopause

Menopause is not a disease and, it would seem, there is no need to diagnose it, since everything is already clear - hot flashes, menstrual irregularities, the onset of menopause and the body’s adaptation to living on small doses of sex hormones. But there are situations when you simply need to know whether menopause has begun and at what stage it is.

Why is menopause diagnostics needed?

• differential diagnosis of menopause and other diseases;
• identification of complications and diseases associated with menopause;
• examination before prescribing hormone replacement therapy and contraceptives.

What is included in the screening plan for menopause?

1. Analysis of life history and complaints (time of menarche, presence of pregnancies, abortions, regularity of the menstrual cycle, etc.).
2. Examination by a gynecologist, taking smears, vaginal culture, cytological examination cervical smears. Examination of the mammary glands.
3. Blood test for sex hormones.
4. Ultrasound of the uterus and appendages.
5. Breast ultrasound or mammography.
6. Osteodensitometry – measurement of bone density.
7. Electrocardiography (ECG)
8. Biochemical blood test: glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, lipoproteins, blood clotting factors, calcium, phosphorus, etc.
9. Test for HIV and syphilis.

Sex hormones (estrogens, progesterone, FSH and LH) in a blood test during menopause:

Period of a woman's life	Blood homogene levels, normal*
	Estradiol, pg/ml	Progesterone, nmol/l	FSH(follicle-stimulating hormone), honey/ml	LH(luteinizing hormone), honey/ml	LH/FSH index
Reproductive period before menopause: 1. Follicle maturation phase (days 1-14 of the menstrual cycle).	less than 160	up to 2.2	to 10	less than 15	1,2-2,2
2. Ovulation (14-16th day).	more than 120	to 10	6 – 17	22 – 57
3. Luteal phase (days 16-28).	30 – 240	more than 10	until 9	less than 16
Premenopause	Female sex hormones gradually decrease**, menstrual cycles without ovulation are observed.		more than 10	more than 16	about 1
Postmenopause	5 – 30	less than 0.6	20 – 100 and above	16 – 53 and above	less than 1

* All normal values ​​are approximate. Each laboratory has its own reference (normal) values, which are usually indicated on the response form. This is due to various methods and test systems that are used in the laboratory research process. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account the reference values ​​provided by the laboratory.

** Interestingly, at the beginning of perimenopause, the deficiency of progesterone, rather than estrogen, is especially pronounced. And by the time of menopause, progesterone is formed in very low doses, and estrogen is only half as much as during childbearing age.

Hormonal background Each woman is very susceptible to environmental factors, emotional state and various diseases, so the level of hormones varies in the same woman.

When to take a blood test for sex hormones?

An analysis for sex hormones during premenopause, that is, with preserved menstruation, must be taken at certain periods of the menstrual cycle, accurately indicating the day from its beginning. Typically, FSH and LH are recommended to be taken on the 3-5th day from the start of menstruation, and estradiol and progesterone on the 21st day. After menopause, the test can be taken any day.

Preparing for a blood test for sex hormones:

• The test is taken strictly in the morning on an empty stomach, with a light dinner in the evening;
• Before the analysis, you should stop drinking alcohol, coffee and medications, and do not smoke;
• when taking contraceptives, the results are adjusted taking into account their doses;
• the day before donating blood, it is recommended to avoid sex and heavy physical activity;
• Before donating blood, you need to completely relax, sit quietly for at least 10 minutes.

Using a blood test for sex hormones, the doctor can detect the onset of menopause or the onset of menopause, and whether pregnancy and pregnancy are possible. Also, depending on the level of hormones and the severity of symptoms, the severity of menopause can be determined. Severe menopause is indicated by high levels of FSH, as well as the LH/FSH ratio: the lower it is, the more difficult the woman’s body tolerates the lack of sex hormones and the more pronounced the symptoms and diseases associated with menopause will be.

Ultrasound examination for menopause

With the advent of menopause, problems often come with women's health. These are, first of all, various tumor-like formations, both benign and malignant. It is for their identification and observation that ultrasound diagnostics of the pelvic organs is necessary, and annually. In addition, ultrasound helps diagnose the onset of menopause and determines the possibility of late pregnancy.

Ultrasound signs of approaching menopause:

• Ultrasound can detect presence or absence of follicles in the ovary and their number. The closer to menopause, the fewer follicles there are, and the less chance of getting pregnant. After menopause, follicles in the ovaries are not detected.
• The ovaries gradually decrease in size , they lose their echogenicity. After menopause, they may not be detected at all.
• The uterus decreases in size , becomes denser, small fibroids may be observed, which after menopause most often resolve on their own. The location of the uterus in the pelvis also changes; it moves somewhat.
Uterine fibroids and its treatment with ultrasound therapy
• Life after menopause - what is it like? Sex and sexual relations. Is it possible to get pregnant during menopause? Recommendations for proper nutrition for women before and after menopause. Does menopause occur in men?

Women approach the onset of menopause differently. Some perceive it as the next stage of natural changes in the body. Others are afraid, expecting unknown signs of deterioration in health. There are also those who perceive it as the end of life. For such women, even the thought of the approach of this period leads to a neuropsychic disorder. Menopause is characterized by a number of unpleasant symptoms associated with hormonal changes. Having discovered the symptoms of its onset, a woman can take timely measures to alleviate them.

Premenopause starts around 40-45 years old. At the same time, periods come irregularly, at larger intervals, and become more scanty. The likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced.
Menopause- this is the period of 12 months after the last menstruation.
Postmenopause means a complete cessation of egg production in the ovaries.

The timing of menopause and its duration may vary, depending on the characteristics of physiology, the number of pregnancies and abortions, psychological and other factors.

Early menopause is considered to occur before the age of 40, late - after 55 years.

Signs of menopausal changes in women

The first signs of menopause in women are:

1. Hot flashes are a sudden change in sensations of heat and chills. Hot flashes are accompanied by weakness, attacks of dizziness and palpitations, migraines, and sweating.
2. Changes in appearance: formation of wrinkles, impaired skin pigmentation, dry skin, deterioration of hair and tooth enamel, brittle nails.
3. The occurrence of diseases of the skeletal system associated with calcium deficiency in the body.

The menopausal period is characterized by a deterioration in the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Therefore, signs such as increased blood pressure, headaches, heart rhythm disturbances also often indicate the onset of menopausal changes.

All this is the result of age-related hormonal changes. In the body of a young woman, the main role is played by ovarian hormones (estrogen, progesterone), which determine sexual activity and the ability to renew cells of various tissues. During menopause, the level of the so-called follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) increases, due to which the level of estrogen decreases. This causes aging of the body.

How to determine the onset of menopause

Knowing about the beginning of this period, a woman will be able to pay increased attention to her health and undergo regular examinations by a gynecologist and other specialists. This will help avoid many serious diseases.

To determine the onset of menopause, a special FSH test is done. When it occurs, there is a steady increase in the level of this hormone in the urine in comparison with the reproductive period, when it fluctuates at different points in the menstrual cycle.

If a woman still has her period, but signs of menopause have already appeared, then such a test is carried out on one of the 6 days from the start of menstruation, then repeated another week later. 2-3 tests are performed to determine the content of FSH in the urine. If it is consistently high, this indicates the onset of menopausal changes.

If menstruation has already become irregular and occurs rarely, then the first test is done on any day, and subsequent ones - at intervals of 1 week.

Video: Hormone therapy for menopause

Symptoms of early menopause

Sometimes symptoms of such changes appear after 35 years. Deterioration of thermoregulation due to decreased functions of the hypothalamus causes hot flashes. A common symptom characteristic of women with the early onset of menopause is vaginal dryness, which often causes inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary organs.

The first symptom of early menopause is decreased sexual activity. Women experiencing this condition more often experience insomnia, as a result, irritability, bad mood, and depression.

Causes of early menopause

One of the possible reasons for the onset of menopausal changes in women 35-40 years old may be the early onset of menstruation (up to 12 years). An important role is played by the factor of heredity, as well as lifestyle. Constant stress, emotional and physical overload, unhealthy environment, and bad habits accelerate the process of decline of childbearing abilities.

The following can also speed up the onset of menopause:

• use of oral contraceptives;
• long-term treatment with hormonal drugs;
• diseases of the thyroid, pancreas, genital organs;
• weakened immunity;
• infectious and tumor diseases.

Video: Causes and prevention of early menopause

Prevention and treatment of early menopause

The early onset of menopause increases a woman's risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart disease. The likelihood of tumors increases.

Recommendation: Early menopausal changes can be stopped if the first symptoms are noticed in time and the cause is discovered. It is recommended to take gynecological examination at least once every six months.

Of great importance for the prevention of early menopause is a timely visit to the doctor in the event of gynecological, endocrine diseases, a cautious approach to the use of hormonal drugs (in particular, contraceptives). An important role is played by hardening the body, strengthening the immune system, fortified nutrition, physical activity, and regular sex.

When the first signs of early menopause appear, a woman should consult a doctor and undergo an examination to detect the causes in a timely manner. If necessary, hormone therapy, drugs to strengthen the immune system, and vitamins are prescribed.

With age, the female body undergoes hormonal changes inherent in nature. But many women are frightened by the menopause, because there is an opinion that menopause is always malaise, hot flashes, and loss of emotions from intimate relationships. Is it so? Or is menopause just the next stage in a woman’s life and development? What is a woman’s menopause, when does it occur and how does it manifest itself, what treatment is indicated during menopause, read below.

What is menopause in women

Menopause is a woman's natural state when she reaches a certain age. Each woman has a certain formed reserve of eggs in the ovaries. The ovaries produce female hormones - estrogen and progesterone, which regulate female reproductive function, and as a result, ovulation and menstruation occur cyclically every month. When the supply of eggs is used up, menstruation stops, hormone production decreases significantly, and menopause occurs.

Symptoms

A woman should know information about how the menopause manifests itself, what hot flashes are. It is important to be able to get rid of hot flashes quickly so as not to feel discomfort in public, in the office, etc. As a rule, they manifest themselves in a feeling of unexpected heat, which lasts several minutes and is replaced by a feeling of cold; perspiration appears on the woman’s body - this is a reaction of the nervous system to a decrease in hormone production. Washing your face helps relieve hot flashes cold water, if this does not help, you need to find a medicine with the help of a doctor.

Other possible signs of the onset of menopause:

• irregular menstruation;
• uterine bleeding;
• sudden mood changes;
• heart rate increases;
• pressure surges;
• nausea;
• headache;
• pain in joints and muscles;
• vaginal dryness;
• decreased sex drive;
• fast fatiguability;
• sleep disorder;
• neurosis;
• Depression may develop.

When it comes

At what age and how does menopause begin? After 40 years, women enter premenopause: rare or frequent menstruation is observed, dysfunctional bleeding is possible, the development of menopausal cardiopathy is possible, and spotting is possible between menstruation. It is important to know why this period is dangerous: changes in the body can be symptoms of gynecological diseases, for example, uterine fibroids. A menopause test can help confirm the onset of perimenopause. A stable basal temperature also indicates the onset of menopause.

Still, there is no definite answer to the question at what age does a woman begin menopause, because the onset of menopause is influenced by genetic factors, working conditions, climate, lifestyle, and the presence of bad habits. But for most women, menopausal changes begin after 45 years, if after 50 years it is late menopause. Today, many specialists in gynecology are inclined to believe that late menopause should be called its onset after 55 years.

A common occurrence these days is early menopause. The causes of early menopause, which can begin at the age of 30, are heredity, immune disorders or the results of medical intervention. In exceptional cases, premature menopause can occur even at 25 years of age as a result of damage to the ovaries after chemotherapy or surgical removal of the ovaries for medical reasons. But such menopause is pathological and necessarily requires treatment to correct hormonal imbalance female body In young age.

How long does menopause last?

The menopausal period is divided into the phases of premenopause, menopause and postmenopause. How long does hormonal changes in the body last?

• Perimenopause lasts 2-10 years, until menstruation stops.
• Menopause occurs 1 year after the cessation of menstruation.
• The postmenopausal period begins with the onset of menopause and lasts 6-8 years, during which time the symptoms of menopause - for example, hot flashes - may persist, but pass more easily.

Treatment for menopausal syndrome

To alleviate the symptoms of menopause, you need to know what to take when you have a headache, how to relieve hot flashes or other unpleasant symptoms, and stop uterine bleeding. One of the frequently used drugs in the treatment of menopausal syndrome is homeopathic tablets "Remens". A woman, after consulting a doctor, will be able to choose which means are best for her to use.

Homeopathic medicines

Homeopathy for menopause offers remedies in the form of tablets or drops. During the menopause, a whole range of health problems appear, based on vegetative-vascular symptoms - hot flashes, increased sweating, rapid heartbeat, and psycho-emotional - irritability, insomnia, increased fatigue. A complex of problems during menopause can be solved using the natural components in the composition of the drug Klimaktoplan. The action of the drug is aimed at eliminating two main problems: manifestations of autonomic dysfunction and neuro-emotional discomfort. The drug is of European quality, does not contain hormones, is available without a prescription, is well tolerated, and is produced in Germany.

Folk remedies

Recipes traditional medicine Women often share questions among themselves based on their experiences. To maintain physical tone and Have a good mood good water treatments are soothing herbal baths (cinquefoil root, lovage). To prevent general health, teas and decoctions from medicinal plants are used: chamomile, mint, hogweed, nettle, hawthorn. For optimal well-being during this transition period, you need to plan your daily routine, eat right, and get proper rest.

Hormonal drugs

Hormonal therapy is used only after a medical examination of a woman and as prescribed by a doctor, since it has a number of contraindications. But if complications such as obesity, osteoporosis, or cardiovascular diseases occur during menopause, additional hormone intake is necessary. The doses of hormones contained in the preparations “Klimonorm”, “Femoston”, “Cliogest” replace the missing production of the body’s own hormones.

Herbal medicines

During menopause they use medicines plant-based, for example, “Inoklim”, “Klimadinon”, “Feminal”, and in addition, vitamin-mineral complexes can be used independently or as part of hormonal therapy. The composition includes phytoestrogens - substances similar in structure and functions to female sex hormones, but phytohormones have a much less pronounced effect on the female body. Vitamins and microelements have a strengthening function and help relieve the negative manifestations of age-related metabolic disorders.

Vitamins

A woman is always pleased to know that she is taken care of. It's even more pleasant to feel it. In the field of caring for women’s well-being, Lady’s Formula Menopause Strengthened Formula has proven itself to be ideal. A well-known complex of traditional vitamins, the most important minerals and rare extracts medicinal plants effectively helps women cope with problems that arise during menopause. Thanks to a comprehensive approach to eliminating menopausal symptoms, gentle effects and lack of side effects biocomplex Lady's Formula Menopause Strengthened Formula has become the drug of choice for many women to maintain a high quality of life during this period.

When taking Lady’s Formula Menopause Strengthened Formula, you will no longer be bothered by hot flashes, tachycardia, irritability, insomnia, you will say “no” excess weight And frequent urges to urination. In addition, you will enjoy a healthy, fresh complexion and skin elasticity, hair shine and strength.

Lady's Formula Menopause Enhanced Formula will step by step restore high vitality, good health and excellent appearance.

What is perimenopause

The premenopausal period is a transitional period to menopause, during which a woman's level of estrogen produced by the ovaries decreases over several years. Harbingers of perimenopause:

• delayed menstruation;
• exacerbation of premenstrual syndrome, sudden mood changes;
• painful sensitivity of the mammary glands;
• itching and dryness of the vagina, discomfort during sexual intercourse;
• decreased sex drive;
• frequent urination;
• urinary incontinence when sneezing or coughing.

Doctors diagnose the premenopausal period based on the symptoms that a woman exhibits and on the basis of a blood test for hormone levels, which must be taken several times due to unstable hormonal levels during this period. Perimenopause is a natural state for women aged 40-50, lasting until menopause, when the ovaries stop producing eggs.

Pregnancy during menopause

Is it possible to get pregnant during menopause? Yes it is possible. A woman's reproductive function during premenopause is significantly reduced, but there is a possibility of pregnancy. If such a turn of fate is undesirable, it is necessary to continue using contraceptives for 12 months after the last menstrual period. But sex after menopause can still bring bright colors to a woman’s life, and sexual life should under no circumstances end in the postmenopausal period.

Today we will tell you how menopause manifests itself. Let us describe the symptoms of this period in a woman’s life.

Her body is designed in such a way that it is constantly subject to hormonal changes. First of all, this is the menstrual cycle. Every month a woman experiences different phases of it. Her mood depends on what phase the girl is in. Everyone knows that during the premenstrual period a woman becomes irritable and in a bad mood. For example, during the period of ovulation, she tries to please everyone, especially males. All these are consequences of the action of secreted hormones.

Another serious challenge for a woman is pregnancy. During this period, a restructuring of the entire female body occurs. Doctors recommend that close relatives, and especially the husband, be patient with the woman, show her signs of attention, you just need to wait out this period of time. Since a woman is carrying a child, it is necessary to be understanding of her mood swings, possible hysterics and depression. After giving birth, a girl also goes through a difficult period, as postpartum depression may begin at this time. And so throughout life. It's no secret that women experience menopause in old age. Everyone knows about him, of course. But they often find themselves unprepared for how menopause manifests itself. Although it is very important to take care of your health during this period. It is better if a woman is prepared in advance for changes in her body so that she can control the state of her health.

At what age does menopause appear?

Before describing the symptoms, it is necessary to highlight the period when exactly these changes occur in a woman’s life. There is no specific age when this period begins. Therefore, it can begin any time after age 40. It is better if a woman knows how menopause manifests itself. It should be said right away that the lady is guaranteed to be in an uncomfortable state.

First symptoms

So, how does menopause manifest itself? What are the symptoms of this period in a woman’s life? At such times, hot flashes occur in the body. What it is? Hot flashes are a condition when blood rushes to the vessels and a woman experiences heat in the upper body. This condition does not last long and recedes almost immediately. Some women experience hot flashes several times a day. For example, every hour or every 30 minutes. And for others it may be once a day. Hot flashes can also occur at night. This leads to the woman waking up sweating. She may not be able to sleep afterwards. If hot flashes are frequent, they lead to the woman not getting enough sleep. And as a result, she feels tired and overwhelmed. Hot flashes are also characterized by sweating. Sweat appears on the face and hands. All this looks unsightly and is accompanied by an unpleasant odor.

How does the onset of menopause manifest itself? The first symptom is poor sleep. As mentioned above, the quality of sleep is disrupted by hot flashes that occur in the body. Moreover, it was revealed that the woman wakes up before this process begins. Since women are characterized by emotionality, they cannot sleep because of their worries. And if hot flashes are frequent, then you won’t be able to rest at all at night. Also, during menopause, poor sleep is noted, which is not associated with hot flashes.

How does menopause manifest itself in women? Head pain appears. They are frequent during menopause. There may be several reasons for this condition. Firstly, headaches are associated with overexertion. The hormonal background of the female body changes. Therefore, the mood changes. It happens that a woman may become depressed or be in a bad mood. It happens that she doesn’t like everything, it’s impossible to please, and so on. Being in this state, a woman cannot physically relax, and this affects the muscles of the neck and shoulder region. As a result, headaches occur. Secondly, menopause is accompanied by migraines. With them, the head hurts in the temple area. Migraines are especially common in women who had them before menopause. Sometimes painful sensations so strong that darkening occurs in the eyes.

Unstable emotional background

If we talk about how the onset of menopause manifests itself in women, then, as with other hormonal changes, mood swings are noted. There are bursts of good, cheerful mood, which can suddenly give way to irritability and even crying.

There are women who understand the reason for the changes and can control themselves. Some people cope on their own. Others fight by taking special medications. It’s worse when a woman doesn’t understand what’s causing her bad mood and blames others. Communicating with such a special person will not bring pleasure to anyone. Another sign of menopause is a lump in the throat that goes away after some time.

Decreased concentration

During menopause, a woman experiences forgetfulness, absent-mindedness, and lack of concentration. A similar condition occurs during pregnancy and is associated with the hormonal levels of the body. A woman can completely forget about something. She does this unconsciously, without any intent. In such a situation, the habit of writing down necessary tasks or setting reminders in your mobile devices will help out.

Deterioration of the microflora of the genital organs

The most unpleasant factor of menopause is the lack of sufficient lubrication in the vagina.

Especially during sexual intercourse, this symptom causes discomfort. Pain and itching may also occur. This problem can be eliminated using special drugs.

Urinary dysfunction

During menopause, some women experience disruption of the urinary organs. This is another sign of how menopause manifests itself in the body. Firstly, you have to go to the toilet more often. Women are bothered by a frequent urge to urinate. Secondly, urine may be leaked involuntarily when laughing, coughing, or for no reason. This situation has a depressing effect on many ladies. Bad mood, and can cause depression in a woman. Therefore, it is important not to bring yourself to a state of depression, but to consult a doctor in time and take measures to stabilize the body’s condition.

Menstrual irregularities

The above symptoms are the first sign of a climatic period. The next manifestation of menopause will be menstrual irregularities. At first, the discharge becomes irregular and scanty, and then stops appearing. During this period, there is a possibility of pregnancy. Therefore, during this period it is necessary to protect yourself.

It should be said that several years may pass from the appearance of hot flashes and other signs of menopause to the onset of menopause.

Medical care, hormonal drugs and contraindications to their use

If a woman notices symptoms of menopause, she needs to see a doctor. The doctor will prescribe the necessary medications to treat menopause and for contraception.

Usually, hormonal medications are prescribed that bring the body back to normal and eliminate the symptoms of menopause. The doctor must also select the most suitable contraceptives. It should be said that since menopause does not occur at a young age, hormonal therapy is not suitable for all women. It is necessary to take into account the individual health status of the body. There are a number of contraindications when taking hormones. These include:

1. Heart diseases.
2. Pathologies of the intestines and stomach.
3. Endometriosis.
4. Diseases of the excretory system.

Therefore, before prescribing hormonal drugs, the doctor will inquire about the presence of the above diseases. He will also prescribe the necessary examination based on the test results.

Conclusion

Now it’s clear how menopause manifests itself in women. Modern medicine is developing at a rapid pace. Therefore, now there is an opportunity to support your body during menopause. Women are advised not to fall into despair and not to overwhelm themselves with negative thoughts. And contact a gynecologist and carry out the treatment prescribed by him. If you follow your doctor's recommendations, menopause will go smoothly, without much worry.

Minasyan Margarita

Any age-related changes in the body cause anxiety and alertness. With regard to menopause, this statement is even more true, because, unfortunately, its arrival is accompanied by not the most pleasant manifestations. Many representatives of the fair sex who have already walked this path talk about how difficult it was for them. Therefore, associations with the onset of menopause are often more than negative. Like any action conceived by nature, it does not begin suddenly. The main signs of the premenopausal period begin long before the full onset of menopause; if you properly prepare for them, you can significantly reduce the risks of adverse manifestations and maintain a high quality of life.

Features of premenopause

The essence of menopause is a reduction in the production of female sex hormones by the ovaries, the cessation of ovulation processes, which leads to the gradual disappearance of menstruation, and, consequently, the completion of reproductive function.
Menostasis itself is natural, but under the influence of certain factors its symptoms can become excessively severe, significantly darkening life.
Menopause does not come in one day; its onset can be divided into 3 stages:

1. Perimenopause begins several years before the complete cessation of monthly bleeding. This First stage, in which negative manifestations may already begin to make themselves felt. Conventionally, we can call the age of 45-47 years the most characteristic for the onset of this phenomenon
2. Menopause is characterized by the complete cessation of menstruation and the end of reproductive function. Its onset is natural at the age of 50-52 years.
3. Postmenopause is a time that lasts until the end of life. As a rule, all the symptoms characteristic of the first two stages recede, but if the negative phenomena managed to cause significant harm to health, then the consequences remain with the woman for the rest of her life.

Premenopause begins at a time when the production of female sex hormones gradually decreases, this is especially true for estrogens, since they are responsible for regulating many important physiological processes in the female body. In particular, they are responsible for:

• stable menstrual cycle;
• metabolism;
• formation of a figure according to the female type;
• sexual desire;
• maintaining timely renewal and moisture levels of mucous membranes;
• emotional stability;
• for complete absorption of calcium;
• preservation of youth, since estrogens are involved in the synthesis of collagen fibers;
• stimulating metabolic processes in the brain, maintaining memory, the ability to concentrate and perceive new information.

The premenopausal period is very important; it provides a kind of respite, time to prepare for the upcoming global changes. Its duration is on average 4 years, but individual deviations from this indicator are possible. One thing remains unchanged: at this time you need to pay maximum attention to your well-being and not let the situation take its course.

Main signs of premenopausal changes

It should be noted that not every woman acutely feels the approach of menopause. Each organism is individual, and its reactions to any internal vibrations are also different. To find out whether the symptoms refer to the beginning of menopause, you can go through.

However, in medical practice, the following symptoms are identified that distinguish the premenopausal period:

• One of the most significant external manifestations is a change in the nature of menstruation. If previously they were regular, now characteristic disruptions in cyclicity may be observed. The essence can also change, they can become more scarce, then again take on their usual character. Premenopause is characterized by persistence of bleeding, but there is a tendency for it to stop.
• One of the most pronounced and most dangerous manifestations that mark this syndrome are disruptions in the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. This should include the appearance of hot flashes, attacks of rapid heartbeat, the development of coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, angina pectoris, and the diagnosis of frequent attacks of high blood pressure. Often, even with the slightest exertion and emotional stress, shortness of breath occurs. It is precisely when all these signs of trouble are just beginning that timely treatment should begin and the achieved result should be maintained.
• Also, sometimes excessive sensitivity of the mammary glands appears if such a disease already exists. It is worth keeping in mind that many tumor diseases in this area are often hormone-dependent. Therefore, with the onset of menostasis, the number of cancer diseases increases sharply. Breast cancer is the leader among all types of oncology.
• Increased fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and memory loss may occur.
• Against the backdrop of changing hormonal levels, difficulties may arise. A decrease in estrogen concentration can significantly reduce libido and provoke discomfort in intimate relationships. Find out which women use.
• This syndrome does not bypass the emotional state. Sometimes even the most balanced women begin to notice increased emotionality, unjustified outbursts of anger, and loss of interest in previously favorite activities and things. This is easily explained by the fact that hormonal changes are invariably associated with the functioning of the central nervous system.
• The premenopausal period may be accompanied by the appearance of sleep disturbances. They appear, sleep becomes shallow, sometimes sweating and anxiety occur. These phenomena appear sporadically, but may already be the first “bells” of a future deterioration of the situation.
• Under the influence of hormonal changes, the manifestation of PMS may worsen, especially in those women who regularly suffer from this disease.
• Episodes often intensify during the premenopausal period.

Prevention of premenopause

May play a predominant role even before treatment. After all, the symptoms of trouble are not yet so pronounced, so there is time to influence their dynamics in more loyal and safe ways.

Perimenopause syndrome requires responsible preparation for it. Yes, there are hereditary factors that are very difficult to influence. If all the representatives of the fairer sex in the family had a hard time with the onset of menopause, then there is a certain risk of repeating this path. However, one should not attribute everything to a fatal coincidence. The development of pathological menopause is influenced by the lifestyle that accompanied the woman throughout her life until entering premenopause. Therefore, preparations for the onset of this stage should begin by making adjustments in this direction. Ideally, of course, a healthy lifestyle should remain a faithful companion from childhood, but, as a rule, while a person is healthy, he aimlessly wastes his health reserves, and then tries to reverse the changes that have taken place. However, it is never too late to change circumstances towards positive dynamics.

Complete rest

One of the most important factors for the successful development of the scenario is maintaining a balanced work and rest regime. There is a clear relationship between cause and effect here. As an example: systematic lack of sleep causes a feeling of depression, provokes attacks of irritability, as a result of which blood pressure rises, anxiety about one’s health, and suspiciousness appear. And this whole chain of negative dynamics is complicated by the hormonal “swings” that begin at this time. Therefore, for the normal functioning of all body systems, it is very important to get quality rest.

Mobility

The importance should not be underestimated physical activity. Over the years, metabolic processes slow down, stagnant processes form in the body, muscle tone decreases, significantly affecting the shape of the body and the attractive appearance of the body. To counter these unpleasant manifestations, you should include in your life motor activity. This will not only help prolong vigor and external beauty, but will also serve as a prevention of cardiovascular diseases and excess weight gain.

Proper nutrition

A balanced diet can also be an excellent help at the stage when it begins to manifest itself. Regular consumption of plant foods, lean meats, sea fish, and dairy products is the basis healthy eating. To improve your well-being, you should reduce your intake of sugar, salt, fatty and fried foods, and “bad” carbohydrates.

It would be justified to take additional sources of vitamins and microelements in order to maintain the activity and resistance of the body to various negative factors.

Rejection of bad habits

It is very important to eliminate bad habits, If there are any. Nicotine and alcohol addiction are destructive for any period of life, but during premenopause they can become provocateurs of heart disease, oncology, thyroid diseases and other dangerous ailments.

Calm

Control of the psycho-emotional state is also an equally important factor. After all, the premenopausal period is characterized by a large number of vasovegetative symptoms, the formation of which is inextricably linked with the activity of the autonomic nervous system. Therefore, emotional well-being helps support the functioning of the central nervous system and slows down the development of unfavorable tendencies. To achieve a positive attitude, you should protect yourself as much as possible from stress, emotional and physical fatigue; if this is not possible, then try to change your attitude towards current events and, perhaps, resort to drug support for the functioning of the nervous system.

Sexual activity

Having a full sex life during premenopause has a positive effect on your general condition. Sexual energy has a beneficial effect on the production of hormones, the amount of which has tended to decrease. In addition, blood circulation in the pelvic organs improves, stagnant processes are eliminated, and emotional manifestations are stabilized.

Therapy of premenopausal disorders

If the combination of preventive methods taken during premenopause does not bring stable results, and pathological symptoms maintain a tendency to progress, treatment should be supplemented with special drugs.

The first step towards developing the correct treatment tactics is contacting a specialist. Ideally, it is he who should control the passage of the entire period of menopause.

Based on the collected medical history, the doctor will prescribe the necessary diagnostics, including:

• direct examination by a therapist, gynecologist, mammologist;
• taking urine and blood tests to assess the patient’s general condition;
• blood sampling for analysis of hormone levels in order to determine the extent of changes occurring and select reasonable treatment;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs and mammary glands;
• mammography;
• taking smears for infections;
• conducting a cytological examination of the cervix;

Additional diagnostics are carried out based on the patient’s specific complaints. If there are any, the patient is referred to a specialized specialist and undergoes appropriate diagnostics.

After collecting all the necessary information, treatment tactics are prescribed, taking into account all contraindications and features of the course that distinguish the premenopausal period.

In premenopause, the most important direction of therapy is stabilization of hormonal levels. The most significant effect on a woman’s condition is the decrease in the amount of estrogen. Therefore, effective treatment should be based on compensating for the decrease in the production of these hormones.

Phytoestrogens

In order to prevent a sharp reduction in estrogen levels, they turn to pharmaceuticals containing phytoestrogens.

Phytoestrogens are non-steroidal hormone-like substances, similar in structure to one of the subtypes of natural estrogens - estradiol.

Taking plant estrogens has a positive effect on:

1. Activity of the cardiovascular system. Phytohormones strengthen the walls of blood vessels, increase their elasticity, provide adequate nutrition to the myocardium, prevent the development of atherosclerosis, thereby helping to avoid the development hypertension, IHD, and also prevent heart attacks and strokes;
2. The work of the central nervous system. Estrogens enhance the adaptive ability of the central nervous system to various stressful situations, mental and emotional stress. In addition, they help regulate the interaction between the parasympathetic and sympathetic parts of the autonomic nervous system, allowing you to streamline the change in the processes of activity and rest. Due to this, sleep is normalized, efficiency increases, which is replaced by the natural onset of fatigue after completing labor-intensive processes, and overexcitation is prevented, which does not allow a person to relax and fully rest;
3. External attractiveness. The action of natural estrogens is aimed not only at eliminating internal ailments, but also at maintaining the natural beauty of a woman. A decrease in the production of natural hormones leads to the launch of the aging process: the condition of the skin, hair, and nails sharply deteriorates, the figure changes to a male type, and excess weight appears. Taking phytoestrogens helps to resist the occurrence of these manifestations and postpone them to a later date.
4. Absorption of calcium by the body. Phytoestrogens, together with vitamin D, help to fully absorb this microelement from food and vitamin-mineral complexes, counteracting the development of a disease characteristic of this time - osteoporosis, which manifests itself in increased fragility of bone tissue.

Vitamin and mineral preparations supplemented with these plant substances are most often used as a source of phytoestrogens. Examples of such complexes are:

• Qi-Clim;
• Klimadinon;
• Estrovel;
• Menopace;
• Remens;
• Mense.

HRT

Hormone replacement therapy can be justified only if the syndrome develops too rapidly and the woman’s health is extremely adversely affected by hormonal imbalances. In this case, delay can be dangerous and becomes less effective.

It is important to remember that HRT is a last resort, the use of which should be limited in time, and treatment should be carried out under the strict supervision of a specialist. Unfortunately, long-term treatment with hormonal drugs causes an increased risk of cancer, for example, various types cancer of the female genital organs and mammary glands.

Premenopause is an important preparatory stage in the restructuring of the female body. And although this phenomenon is exciting and, moreover, it is often accompanied by negative symptoms, it is important to consider it not only from a negative perspective, but also from the perspective of opportunities. As a rule, by this time, children no longer require as much attention as before, the woman has time to care for herself and organize her own leisure time, her sexuality reaches its peak, and the need to worry about the occurrence of an unwanted pregnancy disappears. Menopause is not the end of life, but a phenomenon provided for by nature itself, the course of which largely depends on the correct attitude and preventive measures taken.