As menopause approaches, usually between the ages of 45 and 55, the ovaries are genetically programmed to dramatically reduce the production of estrogen. Estrogen affects many parts of the body, including the blood vessels, heart, bone, breasts, uterus, urinary system, skin and brain. Lowered or variable levels of estrogen are believed to be the cause of many menopausal symptoms.
Symptoms of menopause can include:
Hot Flashes: The most common symptom of menopause. According to some studies, hot flashes occur in as many as 75% of perimenopausal women (Perimenopause marks the interval in which a woman’s body begins its transition into menopause. Perimenopause encompasses the years leading up to menopause — anywhere from two to eight years — plus the first year after the final period).
Hot flash symptoms vary among women. Hot flashes are usually a feeling of sudden warmth followed by a wave of sweating and flushing, most commonly in the head and facial area but can include most of the body. Occasionally, there can be mild palpitations. Hot flashes transiently increase skin temperature and pulse, and they often cause insomnia.
Urinary incontinence and burning on urination
Vaginal Changes: Estrogen affects the vaginal lining resulting in thinner tissue that is less flexible, as well as reduced lubrication. Perimenopausal women may note a change in vaginal discharge and have pain during intercourse.
Breast Changes: Menopause may cause changes in the shape, consistency and support of the breasts.
Skin: Skin becomes drier and thinner with less collagen support and may hasten fine lines and wrinkles.
Bone Loss: Rapid bone loss is common during the perimenopausal years. Most women reach their peak bone density at 25-30 years of age. After that, bone loss averages 0.13% per year. During perimenopause, bone loss accelerates to about a 3% loss per year. Later, it drops off to about a 2% loss per year. No pain is usually associated with bone loss. However, bone loss can cause osteoporosis, a condition that increases the risk of bone fractures.
Cholesterol: Cholesterol profiles also change significantly at the time of menopause. Total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol increase. Increased LDL cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
Heart Disease: The risk of heart disease increases after menopause, although it is unclear exactly how much is due to aging and how much is caused by the hormonal changes that occur at the time of menopause. Women who undergo premature menopause or have their ovaries removed surgically at an early age are at an increased risk of heart disease.
Weight Gain: A three-year study of healthy women nearing menopause found an average gain of five pounds during the three years. Metabolic changes associated with aging are the root cause. The distribution of fat is hormonally mediated. Women who take hormone replacement have fat distributed to the hips and thighs; those who do not ten to gain fat around the middle and waist.