Menopause* ** is not just a here today and gone tomorrow phenomenon, it has 4 stages. This I did not know. All I knew was that I was having normal periods one minute and the next, my migraines were worse and my periods had stopped.
Each of the 4 stages have their own set of symptoms and different changes happen in your body. Each woman experiences the stages differently and for different lengths of time.
The 4 stages are:
- Pre-Menopause
- Peri-Menopause
- Menopause
- Post Menopause
What Is Pre-Menopause?
This is exactly what it says – ‘Pre’ means before, and is the stage of your life before the transition into menopause has begun. You should have no menopause symptoms, be fertile, and having regular menstrual cycles. This stage should last at least until your late thirties.
What is Perimenopause?
This is the time when you start to notice changes in your body and the classic menopause symptoms will begin to reveal themselves. Hot flashes, weight gain around the mid-section, and mood swings are a few of the symptoms that begin to manifest. Irregular periods are a sign that your hormone levels of oestrogen and progesterone are fluctuating and hormonal balance becomes one of the key ways to relieve symptoms.
What is Menopause?
You’re considered to be menopausal when more than a year has passed since you had your last period. Symptoms you may start to notice, (but may not have all) – thinning hair, weight gain, loss of libido, depression, incontinence, brittle nails, burning tongue, and itchy skin. If you experience abnormal hair growth or a lowered voice, ask your doctor about testosterone imbalance.
When am I in Post-Menopause?
Being in this phase doesn’t mean that any symptoms you have been having will vanish into thin air. You need to be prepared that hormonal imbalances may be a part of your life for a long while, as it can take a long time for your body to fully adjust to its now hormone levels. Some women in their 70s report still suffering from symptoms. Alternatively, some women never experience any symptoms at all.
More Information
It is important to remember that Menopause is a natural, normal change in a woman’s body and is not an illness. If you are starting to have any symptoms, it is important to see your Doctor.
**I am not giving advice, my blogs are for information only
**I am not responsible for any damage of any type which arises from the use of this information
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