Menopause
Menopause tends to occur when women haven’t menstruated for a year and can no longer naturally become pregnant. Often, it usually starts between 45 and 55. However, it can also develop after or before this range. The condition can trigger uncomfortable symptoms, from hot flashes to weight gain. It also makes a woman more susceptible to other conditions like ringworm and fungal infections.
The symptoms linked to menopause may occur gradually or suddenly, and every woman experiences the condition differently. Also, the severity of the symptoms can depend on existing medical conditions like cancer, and specific lifestyle choices, such as smoking. Some common symptoms of menopause are insomnia, vaginal dryness, weight gain, depression, anxiety, concentration difficulties, memory problems, reduced sex drive, dry skin, increased urination, tender breasts, headaches, racing heart, UTIs, stiff and painful joints, and hair loss, among many others.
While menopause is relatively common, it can also cause complications. These include vulvovaginal atrophy, dyspareunia, osteoporosis, cataracts, periodontal disease, urinary incontinence, bacterial infections, and blood vessel or heart disease. Treatments like hormone therapy may be necessary if symptoms begin to impact daily life. In addition, medications for treating the symptoms may be prescribed, like sleeping medications for insomnia.
