Table of Contents
What is Menopause?
Physical Changes During Menopause
Physical Changes Observed
Common Symptoms During Menopause
Have you ever heard of menopausal disorders? Many might be worried upon hearing that various physical discomforts occur during this time. This article introduces the bodily changes and symptoms that occur during menopause.
What is Menopause?
As one approaches the end of their reproductive years, ovarian activity gradually declines. Menopause is defined as the cessation of menstruation. As menopause approaches, menstrual cycles become irregular and spaced further apart, making it difficult to determine the end of menstruation at that time. Menopause is confirmed retrospectively after a year of amenorrhea (no menstrual periods).
Physical Changes During Menopause
What kind of physical changes occur during this new stage of life?
Ovarian Tissue Changes
One of the changes during menopause is in the ovarian tissue. With the onset of menopause, the production of female hormones decreases due to the cessation of ovulation and the disappearance of follicles. The deficiency of estrogen, a female hormone, is known to cause various changes not only in the reproductive system but also in the body.
Physical Changes Observed
Due to the lack of estrogen, symptoms such as hot flashes and excessive sweating can occur. Additionally, symptoms similar to autonomic dysfunction, such as fatigue, depressive states, and insomnia, are also common. Moreover, the decrease in estrogen's influence on organs can lead to reduced bone density and abnormalities in lipid metabolism.
Common Symptoms During Menopause
Let's look at the symptoms often seen during menopause.
Symptoms Related to Vasodilation and Heat Dissipation
Hot flashes, flushing, and sweating are some of the symptoms that may occur. These are due to disturbances in the autonomic nervous system. The imbalance in the control of blood vessel expansion and contraction leads to these symptoms.
Psychological Symptoms
Mood swings, decreased motivation, irritability, emotional instability, and insomnia may also occur. These symptoms are due to disturbances in the autonomic nervous system. Estrogen is involved in the production of serotonin, which can lead to such psychological symptoms.
Other Physical Symptoms
Dizziness and palpitations are common symptoms. Headaches, stiff shoulders, back pain, and lower back pain may also occur, caused by reduced blood flow due to decreased female hormones. Symptoms like coldness, numbness, and fatigue can also appear.
As you can see, a wide range of symptoms can occur during menopause. Rather than enduring them as inevitable, it is important to take measures such as consulting a gynecologist if the symptoms are severe.