Postmenopause refers to the time after a woman's final menstrual period. It signals the end of a woman's reproductive years and the transition into later life stages.
Some key things to know:
Now that we've covered the basics, let's go over why this transition occurs and how it may impact a woman's health:
Ovarian aging and the depletion of eggs causes estrogen and progesterone levels to decline. This signals the pituitary gland to produce less follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. It's these complex hormonal interactions that drive the menstrual cycle and reproduction.
The loss of estrogen during postmenopause causes changes throughout the body. For example, it speeds bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Vaginal tissues may become thinner and drier, leading to discomfort during sex. Lower estrogen is also linked to heart disease.
The good news? Making healthy lifestyle choices can ease this transition:
If symptoms persist, see your doctor or certified menopause specialist, like those at Harmony Hormone Center. Their compassionate team offers customized hormone therapy using bioidentical hormones to relieve hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and other issues. With personalized care rooted in science, Harmony Hormone Center helps women thrive in menopause and beyond!
I hope this overview gave you a better understanding of postmenopause. While it signals the end of fertility, with proper self-care and support when needed, women can stay happy and healthy during this next stage of life. Let me know if you have any other questions!