Menopause brings changes to a woman's body shape due to shifting hormone levels. As estrogen levels drop during perimenopause and after menopause, body fat storage patterns tend to change. Many women notice an increase in belly fat and a redistribution of weight to the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs.
Other common body shape changes during and after menopause include:
- Increase of overall body fat, especially around the midsection
- Expansion of the waistline and more fat around the belly
- Widening through the hips and thighs
- Loss of fat in the breasts, arms, legs, and face
- Increase of fat deposition in the upper back and upper abdomen
Several factors contribute to these body shape changes:
Hormone fluctuations
- Decreasing estrogen levels lead to a shift of fat storage to the abdomen, hip, butt, and thigh areas
- Lower estrogen allows the hormone cortisol to stimulate fat storage around the stomach and organs
Aging and metabolism changes
- The body burns calories more slowly leading to gradual weight gain
- Loss of lean muscle mass results in a lower metabolic rate
- Lifestyle changes like less exercise and same eating habits add pounds
Genetics and cell changes
- Fat cells increase in both size and number in a woman's body with aging
- Genetics influence where women carry weight
Other health issues
- Thyroid disorders or high cortisol lead to heavier weight gain
- Medications like steroids, antidepressants, and more spur weight gain
While menopause nudges the body to put on more fat around the middle, there are things women can try to counteract this effect:
- Continue getting regular exercise, including strength training
- Follow a nutritious, low-sugar diet high in plants
- Consider hormone therapy or supplements to relieve symptoms if appropriate
- Stay at a healthy weight for your height
- Manage stress levels with self-care activities
- Get enough quality sleep each night
With some targeted lifestyle adjustments, it's possible to maintain a healthy, strong body through menopause and beyond. Reach out to your doctor with any concerns or if you need extra support adjusting to changes.
At Harmony Hormone Center, we help women navigate menopause changes comfortably. Our compassionate medical team provides customized care including:
- Hormone testing to identify any imbalances
- Bioidentical hormone therapy to relieve symptoms
- Nutrition guidance specific to menopause
- Lifestyle recommendations to empower women
- Ongoing monitoring and support
We understand the challenges women face during this transition and make it our mission to listen, educate, and develop integrative treatment plans suited to each patient's needs.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
