Menopause: Symptoms, Hormonal Changes, and Long-Term Health Risks

Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation, typically occurring between ages 45–55 (average 51). It marks the end of ovarian follicular activity and a decline in estrogen and progesterone.

Common Symptoms

• Vasomotor: Hot flashes, night sweats
• Genitourinary: Vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, urinary urgency
• Psychological: Mood swings, irritability, sleep disturbance
• Physical: Irregular periods (perimenopause), weight gain, joint pain

Long-Term Health Risks

• Osteoporosis (accelerated bone loss)
• Cardiovascular disease (loss of estrogen's protective effect)
• Cognitive changes
• Increased risk of certain cancers (endometrial, breast)

Management

Options include hormone therapy (estrogen ± progestin), non-hormonal medications (SSRIs, gabapentin), lifestyle modifications (exercise, calcium/vitamin D, smoking cessation), and vaginal moisturizers/lubricants. Individualized care is essential.