Menopause is a natural biological process that occurs in women as they age and marks the end of their reproductive years. Here are five key facts about menopause:
- Definition and Timing: Menopause is defined as the permanent cessation of menstruation and marks the end of a woman’s reproductive ability. It typically occurs around the age of 45 to 55, with the average age being around 51. However, it can occur earlier (premature menopause) or later in some individuals. Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 in most women.Percentage: Around 95% of women experience menopause within this age range.
- Hormonal Changes: Menopause is primarily driven by hormonal changes, particularly a decline in estrogen and progesterone production by the ovaries. These hormonal fluctuations can lead to various symptoms and health changes in women, including hot flashes, mood swings, and changes in bone density. Perimenopause, the transition leading up to menopause, usually begins in a woman’s 40s. Approximately 70-80% of women experience symptoms during perimenopause.
- Symptoms and Effects: Common symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and changes in sexual desire. Menopause can also affect bone health, leading to an increased risk of osteoporosis, and may impact heart health and cognitive function. Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause, characterised by sudden feelings of warmth, sweating, and a flushed face. About 75-85% of menopausal women experience hot flashes.
- Treatment and Management: Management of menopausal symptoms often involves lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and other medications may be prescribed to alleviate severe symptoms. Additionally, calcium and vitamin D supplements may be recommended to maintain bone health. Women are at an increased risk of developing osteoporosis after menopause due to declining estrogen levels. Postmenopausal women account for about 80% of all individuals with osteoporosis.
- Long-Term Health Considerations: Menopause is associated with an increased risk of certain health conditions, including osteoporosis, heart disease, and cognitive decline. It’s estimated that about 10-15% of postmenopausal women in the UK use HRT for managing menopausal symptoms.
Join the MENOFIT™ Month for
MENOPAUSE Awareness Month
Starts 1st October
Masterclass 1st October Menofit™ ‡ Brainfit™
*DAILY Walkfit™ Class
*Daily 15 minute MENOFIT™ Workout
*MENOFIt™ Masterclasses and Talks
Weekly Check in, Meal Plan and Motivation
*Access to the Studio Live Facebook Community Group
£20 for the Month CLICK HERE TO JOIN
