Why does menopause occur? At what age does menopause occur: main stages and symptoms

Climax - the process of extinction reproductive function body as it ages. In women, the main symptom of menopause is the cessation of the menstrual cycle. Officially, menopause is diagnosed when menstruation is not observed for 12 months. Age-related changes are often accompanied by emotional disturbances, impaired thermoregulation and sweating, dizziness and headaches, tachycardia and other unpleasant phenomena. This set of symptoms is called menopausal syndrome.

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Menopause is considered a completely natural condition, but many women perceive it as a disaster. The reason is misconceptions associated with the onset of menopause and changes in hormonal levels. Let's try to dispel the most famous of them.

Menopausal changes begin at age 40

The moment of menopause is very individual. This is influenced by:

• heredity;
• the presence of chronic diseases (especially hormonal pathologies, metabolic failures, cardiovascular diseases, malignant neoplasms);
• geographical factor (women living in hot climates experience menopause earlier);
• socio-economic circumstances. In countries where women engage in heavy physical labor or have large numbers of children, average age The onset of menopause is really close to 40-43 years. Most modern women living in economically developed countries in Europe, Asia and America feel the first signs of menopause 10 years later;
• psychological instability, frequent stress, the presence of mental disorders;
• behavioral factors (bad habits, characteristics of sexual activity).

There are known cases of both very early and late onset of menopause. The age at which menopause occurs ranges from 36 to 60 years.

It is impossible to become pregnant after menstruation stops

A woman’s reproductive function does not fade away immediately. The likelihood of conception remains for two years after menopause. Therefore, it is extremely imprudent to immediately refuse contraception.

It is very important to understand that age-related changes in hormonal levels require individual selection of new contraceptives. To avoid harm to a woman’s health, a doctor should prescribe appropriate medications.

Menopause is a malfunction of the endocrine system

Climax – natural state. It is not a pathology. The hormonal background really becomes different from what it was in youth. There is a deficiency of ovarian hormones, causing changes in metabolism and the functioning of certain organs and systems.

The amount of female hormones in the body can be adjusted with the help of properly selected medications, which will make physiological changes less drastic and improve well-being.

During menopause, a woman’s health deteriorates catastrophically

Menopause does not provoke the development of serious problems in the body. However, its symptoms are very individual. They can create some discomfort and worsen a woman’s condition, more often in cases where there were health problems before.

If hot flashes, dizziness, emotional instability and other signs of menopause significantly reduce the quality of life and interfere with usual activities, the woman should consult a doctor. A gynecologist-endocrinologist will assess her condition and select hormone replacement therapy taking into account the characteristics of the body.

Menopause - the beginning of old age

Incorrect statement. The arrival of menopause does not mean the approach of physical decrepitude, a decline in working capacity, or negative changes in worldview. Many women during this period live more actively than before, carry out their cherished plans, and realize themselves professionally and socially.

The symptoms of menopause can only be alleviated with the help of medications.

Modern hormone replacement therapy is effective enough to reduce the intensity of menopause symptoms to a completely tolerable level. For women who, for some reason, cannot or do not want to take hormonal drugs, there is also a way out. There are many folk remedies that relieve discomfort during menopause. In particular, taking decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs, vitamin teas, and water treatments are useful. Long walks, swimming, and soothing and tonic aromatherapy can be of great help.

Some plants (red clover, cohosh, etc.) contain hormone-like substances. Biologically created based on these herbs active additives, which are widely advertised as “totally removing unpleasant symptoms menopause." Unfortunately, this is not entirely true. For some women, such remedies do bring temporary relief, but the reaction is very individual. In addition, dietary supplements are not subject to mandatory certification. Their composition and effects (including side effects) are not always predictable. Taking supplements cannot be considered a complete and safe hormone replacement therapy. With absence allergic reactions a woman can try to fight the symptoms of menopause with the help of self-prepared preparations of the appropriate plants. But such treatment must be approached very carefully: the slightest violation of the recipe or dosage schedule can cause harm to health, and a positive effect (taking into account the individual reaction) is not guaranteed.

Menopause brings extremely negative changes

Many women perceive the decline of reproductive function without any grief. Few people also regret the disappearance of menstrual bleeding, especially if they were regularly accompanied by pain, weakness, dizziness and other symptoms, to one degree or another, known to all women.

As for the ailments characteristic of menopause, not everyone experiences them. Severe cases climacteric syndrome They are rare and, as a rule, can be corrected with modern medications.

Menopause definitely spoils a woman’s appearance

Changes in hormonal levels really do not have the best effect on the condition of the skin, hair and mucous membranes. The skin becomes dry and loses its tone, and facial wrinkles deepen. Some women gain excess weight.

These troubles can be dealt with. Of course, not everyone has access to the kind of body care that famous actresses use, who, during menopause, maintain a figure and face in a state that young girls can envy. However, any woman can afford many anti-aging cosmetics. Don't neglect traditional methods preserving beauty, since some herbs, fruits and vegetables have a tonic and nourishing effect on the skin and hair. Exercise, water treatments and a healthy diet will help you get your figure in order.

A woman’s life is a series of different events: good and bad. But with the onset of 50 summer age the woman begins to notice unpleasant symptoms that begin to bother her daily. What happened with me? – this is a question a woman asks herself and her attending physician at an appointment. Some are horrified by the doctor’s answer, while others resign themselves to the verdict. The onset of menopause is not a death sentence, it is another stage of life. How does menopause begin? How to recognize the first manifestations of menopause? What symptoms does it accompany?

Menopause has a number of unpleasant symptoms

Climax or something else?

The age at which a woman notices deterioration in health associated with the manifestations of menopause is 50 years. But it is worth noting the fact that the first symptoms of the disease can bother a woman from 45 to 50 years old, and some even at 30 years old (symptoms of early menopause). Let's look at the symptoms of this life period in women and let's talk about how menopause begins.

• Irregular periods. This symptom is not always the first sign of the onset of menopause, but it is worth paying attention to. See your doctor if you are concerned about your irregular menstrual cycle. After all, even before the age of 50, a woman can become an old-time mother, or an examination can reveal a disease.
• Tides. From time to time a woman feels heat in her certain parts body, this symptom usually causes discomfort and lasts no more than one minute. My heart is about to jump out. If you notice that your heart is not calm, it’s pounding, even if you’ve just completed a sprint distance, then it’s time to find out the reason; it could be menopause.
• The scales show more. If you notice an increase in body weight by more than 5 kilograms, seek help from a nutritionist, cardiologist and other specialists; such a symptom indicates that your body’s systems are not functioning properly, as well as the onset of menopause.
• Insomnia. Frequent insomnia brings discomfort into the lives of women. The cause may be menopause or other diseases. If sleeping pills and other drugs do not help, then the consequences of prolonged insomnia can lead to other more serious diseases.

Some women over 50 years of age are often bothered by these symptoms, but they know that menopause has arrived.

If you notice manifestations of one of the described symptoms or all at once, then there is no need to self-diagnose and panic. You need to remember when the symptoms began to bother you, and with what frequency, and accept the fact that you are on the verge of aging. Awareness of this should not be accompanied by depression and panic. Treat this period as something that inevitably happens to any woman.

The fair sex should know about some other issues related to menopause. This physiological condition has signs. Let's look at them in more detail.

Weight gain often accompanies menopause

Menstruation, yes or no: symptom No. 1

The menopause is a period of time that affects the functioning of the glands that secrete sex hormones. Women's reproduction and the menstrual cycle depend on the production of sex hormones. With the onset of menopause, women begin to have periods periodically, and for some they disappear altogether. The full menopause makes itself felt in women over 50 years of age.

Perimenopause is a sign of a complete restructuring of the body, affecting the ability to produce offspring. The term “perimenopause” refers to the period when the ovaries begin to decline until the end of the menstrual cycle. For some women this period lasts two years, for others it lasts eight years.

The next phase of menopause in women is menopause. The last menstrual cycle is characteristic of this phase. After this, postmenopause invades the body.

Postmenopause is the period from the last menstrual cycle to the complete stop of ovarian function. After postmenopause, a woman experiences aging. The duration of this period is from six to eight years. The main sign of the onset of menopause is intermittent uterine bleeding, which becomes either long or short with each passing month. If a woman notices that the periods of time between “cases” have become longer or shorter, then it is necessary to visit a gynecologist - endocrinologist, to find out the reasons and prescribe an examination and further treatment.

Remember, if you are under 45 years old, drink alcohol, smoke, have a poor or unhealthy diet, or live in an area with a poor environmental situation, then the risk of early menopause is high. If you have been prescribed hormonal drugs to treat diseases, then menopause may “visit” you at a later time. late age. So the hormones contained in the drugs you use prevent menopause from manifesting.

Menopausal syndrome is the first harbinger of the oncoming menopause; with its appearance, a woman’s health and well-being deteriorates. Doctors see a direct correlation of this characteristic with the production of female sex hormones.

Alcohol can trigger early menopause

Symptom #2: Hot flashes

Hot flashes are a symptom indicating the actual approach or beginning of menopausal changes in the body of women. A feeling of intense heat is how their patients describe it. Hot flashes are often accompanied by heavy sweating. Normal condition skin can change in a matter of seconds and when the thermal background of the body does not change.

Often such conditions lead women to panic and stress. At the end of the hot flash, the woman feels weak, the heart muscle contracts more strongly, the level of endurance and work capacity drops, panic and other unpleasant symptoms occur. The duration is about 60 seconds, but it can cause a lot of stress for the woman.

Some experience hot flashes frequently, up to 60 times in 24 hours, while others experience them rarely. When the hot flash begins, the woman sweats a lot, and after it it is necessary to change the entire set of clothes. It is recommended to wear several layers of clothing so that you can remove a wet layer. This symptom appears at any time and has a debilitating effect on the woman’s body.

At such moments, a woman may briefly lose consciousness. Hot flashes can cause insomnia, characterized by lack of sleep and a constant feeling of tiredness. When this symptom occurs, there is a risk cardiovascular diseases.

Statistics: More than 50% of the entire female population experiences discomfort from hot flashes. Thin women experience hot flashes more often than overweight women.

Hot flashes can cause loss of consciousness

Lack of sleep: symptom #3

Insomnia is observed during this period, due to hot flashes and stress. Consult a doctor if insomnia bothers you for several nights in a row, he will prescribe you the necessary medications to eliminate this symptom.

Constant migraines and headaches: symptom No. 4

The first symptom that appears during menopause is migraines and headaches. This is the body’s reaction to the manifestations of menopause and depressive states. Tension pain is another name for this phenomenon. Negative emotions contribute to migraines and headaches. If you don't know how to relax, you won't be able to avoid headaches. They can be monotonous and dull.

A woman may feel a sharp headache, which is characterized by severe pain in the forehead and aching in the temples. The attack is characterized by the occurrence of tremors and chills in upper limbs, accompanied by suffocation, “ringing” in the shah, toxicosis, and a gag reflex.

Constant stress and tension causes headaches

Symptom No. 5. Heartache

Menopause causes painful sensations in the cardiac region. This symptom can cause serious heart problems.

Symptom No. 6. Increased blood pressure

The menopausal period is caused by a sharp deterioration in a woman’s health. Promotion blood pressure- a sign of deteriorating health, which causes a feeling of “weightlessness” and other unpleasant sensations. A sharp rise in blood pressure is due to the body's adaptability to various influences. These are physical exercises during which blood pressure increases. Sudden surges in blood pressure require immediate medical intervention.

During menopause, blood pressure should be monitored

Other signs

There are also secondary signs, they are also unpleasant and cause discomfort.

• Numbness of the limbs and tingling. This symptom is observed at night, and some fingers may become numb. After waking up, the woman experiences pain when trying to move her hand.
• Change of mood. A woman is under constant psycho-emotional stress, which causes depression, irritability and physical and nervous fatigue.
• Lump in the throat. Many ladies complain of an unpleasant feeling of a lump in the throat, which is difficult to get rid of. This symptom is observed only during menopause.
• Depression. Menopause is due depressive states. At such moments, a woman experiences dissatisfaction with life, irritability, and depression. What causes depression? Hot flashes, anxiety and other factors contribute to depression.
• Vaginal pain and dryness. This symptom appears in the second phase of menopause, and is caused by low production of sex hormones, as a result of which the vaginal mucosa becomes thinner, loses its usual lubrication and becomes dry.

Lastly

Women who have reached the age of 50 can find out that menopause is approaching by the symptoms described earlier in the review. There is no need to wait until these signs and symptoms bring chaos into your life; consult a doctor so that treatment can be prescribed on time.

Minasyan Margarita

Any age-related changes in the body cause anxiety and alertness. With regard to menopause, this statement is even more true, because, unfortunately, its arrival is accompanied by not the most pleasant manifestations. Many representatives of the fair sex who have already walked this path talk about how difficult it was for them. Therefore, associations with the onset of menopause are often more than negative. Like any action conceived by nature, it does not begin suddenly. The main signs of the premenopausal period begin long before the full onset of menopause; if you properly prepare for them, you can significantly reduce the risks of adverse manifestations and maintain high quality life.

Features of premenopause

The essence of menopause is a reduction in the production of female sex hormones by the ovaries, the cessation of ovulation processes, which leads to the gradual disappearance of menstruation, and, consequently, the completion of reproductive function.
Menostasis itself is natural, but under the influence of certain factors its symptoms can become excessively severe, significantly darkening life.
Menopause does not come in one day; its onset can be divided into 3 stages:

1. Perimenopause begins several years before the complete cessation of monthly bleeding. This is the initial stage in which negative manifestations may already begin to make themselves felt. Conventionally, we can call the age of 45-47 years the most characteristic for the onset of this phenomenon
2. Menopause is characterized by the complete cessation of menstruation and the end of reproductive function. Its onset is natural at the age of 50-52 years.
3. Postmenopause is a time that lasts until the end of life. As a rule, all the symptoms characteristic of the first two stages recede, but if the negative phenomena managed to cause significant harm to health, then the consequences remain with the woman for the rest of her life.

Premenopause begins at a time when the production of female sex hormones gradually decreases, this is especially true for estrogens, since they are responsible for regulating many important physiological processes in the female body. In particular, they are responsible for:

• stable menstrual cycle;
• metabolism;
• formation of a figure according to the female type;
• sexual desire;
• maintaining timely renewal and moisture levels of mucous membranes;
• emotional stability;
• for complete absorption of calcium;
• preservation of youth, since estrogens are involved in the synthesis of collagen fibers;
• stimulating metabolic processes in the brain, maintaining memory, the ability to concentrate and perceive new information.

The premenopausal period is very important; it provides a kind of respite, time to prepare for the upcoming global changes. Its duration is on average 4 years, but individual deviations from this indicator are possible. One thing remains unchanged: at this time you need to pay maximum attention to your well-being and not let the situation take its course.

Main signs of premenopausal changes

It should be noted that not every woman acutely feels the approach of menopause. Each organism is individual, and its reactions to any internal vibrations are also different. To find out whether the symptoms refer to the beginning of menopause, you can go through.

However, in medical practice The following symptoms are identified that distinguish the premenopausal period

• One of the most significant external manifestations is a change in the nature of menstruation. If previously they were regular, now characteristic disruptions in cyclicity may be observed. The essence can also change, they can become more scarce, then again take on their usual character. Premenopause is characterized by persistence of bleeding, but there is a tendency for it to stop.
• One of the most pronounced and most dangerous manifestations that mark this syndrome are disruptions in the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. This should include the appearance of hot flashes, attacks of rapid heartbeat, the development of coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, angina pectoris, and the diagnosis of frequent attacks of high blood pressure. Often, even with the slightest exertion and emotional stress, shortness of breath occurs. It is precisely when all these signs of trouble are just beginning that you should begin timely treatment and maintain the achieved results.
• Also, sometimes excessive sensitivity of the mammary glands appears if such a disease already exists. It is worth keeping in mind that many tumor diseases in this area are often hormone-dependent. Therefore, with the onset of menostasis, the number of cancer diseases increases sharply. Breast cancer is the leader among all types of oncology.
• Increased fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and memory loss may occur.
• Against the backdrop of changing hormonal levels, difficulties may arise. A decrease in estrogen concentration can significantly reduce libido and provoke discomfort when intimate relationships. Find out which women use.
• This syndrome does not bypass emotional condition. Sometimes even the most balanced women begin to notice increased emotionality, unjustified outbursts of anger, and loss of interest in previously favorite activities and things. This is easily explained by the fact that hormonal changes are invariably associated with the functioning of the central nervous system.
• The premenopausal period may be accompanied by the appearance of sleep disturbances. They appear, sleep becomes shallow, sometimes sweating and anxiety occur. These phenomena appear sporadically, but may already be the first “bells” of a future deterioration of the situation.
• Under the influence of hormonal changes, the manifestation of PMS may worsen, especially in those women who regularly suffer from this disease.
• Episodes often intensify during the premenopausal period.

Prevention of premenopause

May play a predominant role even before treatment. After all, the symptoms of trouble are not yet so pronounced, so there is time to influence their dynamics in more loyal and safe ways.

Perimenopause syndrome requires responsible preparation for it. Yes, there are hereditary factors that are very difficult to influence. If all the representatives of the fairer sex in the family had a hard time with the onset of menopause, then there is a certain risk of repeating this path. However, one should not attribute everything to a fatal coincidence. The development of pathological menopause is influenced by the lifestyle that accompanied the woman throughout her life until entering premenopause. Therefore, preparations for the onset of this stage should begin by making adjustments in this direction. Ideally, of course, healthy image life should remain a faithful companion from childhood, but, as a rule, while a person is healthy, he aimlessly wastes the reserves of his health, and then tries to reverse the changes that have taken place. However, it is never too late to change circumstances towards positive dynamics.

Complete rest

One of the most important factors for the successful development of the scenario is maintaining a balanced work and rest regime. There is a clear relationship between cause and effect here. As an example: systematic lack of sleep causes a feeling of depression, provokes attacks of irritability, as a result of which blood pressure rises, anxiety about one’s health, and suspiciousness appear. And this whole chain of negative dynamics is complicated by the hormonal “swings” that begin at this time. Therefore, for the normal functioning of all body systems, it is very important to get quality rest.

Mobility

The importance should not be underestimated physical activity. Over the years metabolic processes slow down, stagnant processes form in the body, muscle tone decreases, significantly affecting the shape of the body and the attractive appearance of the body. To counter these unpleasant manifestations, you should include in your life motor activity. This will not only help prolong vigor and external beauty, but will also serve as a prevention of cardiovascular diseases and excess weight gain.

Proper nutrition

A balanced diet can also be an excellent help at the stage when it begins to manifest itself. Regular consumption of plant foods, lean meats, sea fish, and dairy products is the basis of a healthy diet. To improve your well-being, you should reduce your intake of sugar, salt, fatty and fried foods, and “bad” carbohydrates.

It would be justified to take additional sources of vitamins and microelements in order to maintain the activity and resistance of the body to various negative factors.

Rejection of bad habits

It is very important to eliminate bad habits, if any. Nicotine and alcohol addiction are destructive for any period of life, but during premenopause they can become provocateurs of heart disease, oncology, thyroid diseases and other dangerous ailments.

Calm

Control psycho-emotional state is also an equally important factor. After all, the premenopausal period is characterized by a large number of vasos autonomic symptoms, the formation of which is inextricably linked with vegetative activity nervous system. Therefore, emotional well-being helps support the functioning of the central nervous system and slows down the development of unfavorable tendencies. To achieve a positive attitude, you should protect yourself as much as possible from stress, emotional and physical fatigue; if this is not possible, then try to change your attitude towards current events and, perhaps, resort to drug support for the functioning of the nervous system.

Sexual activity

Having a full sex life during premenopause has a positive effect on your general condition. Sexual energy has a beneficial effect on the production of hormones, the amount of which has tended to decrease. In addition, blood circulation in the pelvic organs improves, stagnant processes are eliminated, and emotional manifestations are stabilized.

Therapy of premenopausal disorders

If the combination of preventive methods taken during premenopause does not bring a stable result, and pathological symptoms continue to progress, treatment should be supplemented with special drugs.

The first step towards development correct tactics treatment is to consult a specialist. Ideally, it is he who should control the passage of the entire period of menopause.

Based on the collected medical history, the doctor will prescribe the necessary diagnostics, including:

• direct examination by a therapist, gynecologist, mammologist;
• taking urine and blood tests to assess the patient’s general condition;
• blood sampling for analysis of hormone levels in order to determine the extent of changes occurring and select reasonable treatment;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs and mammary glands;
• mammography;
• taking smears for infections;
• conducting a cytological examination of the cervix;

Additional diagnostics are carried out based on the patient’s specific complaints. If there are any, the patient is referred to a specialized specialist and undergoes appropriate diagnostics.

After collecting all the necessary information, treatment tactics are prescribed, taking into account all contraindications and features of the course that distinguish the premenopausal period.

In premenopause, the most important direction of therapy is stabilization of hormonal levels. The most significant effect on a woman’s condition is the decrease in the amount of estrogen. Therefore, effective treatment should be based on compensating for the decrease in the production of these hormones.

Phytoestrogens

In order to prevent a sharp reduction in estrogen levels, they turn to pharmaceuticals containing phytoestrogens.

Phytoestrogens are non-steroidal hormone-like substances, similar in structure to one of the subtypes of natural estrogens - estradiol.

Taking plant estrogens has a positive effect on:

1. Activity of cardio-vascular system. Phytohormones strengthen the walls of blood vessels, increase their elasticity, and provide good nutrition myocardium, prevent the development of atherosclerosis, thereby helping to avoid the development hypertension, IHD, and also prevent heart attacks and strokes;
2. The work of the central nervous system. Estrogens enhance the adaptive ability of the central nervous system to various stressful situations, mental and emotional stress. In addition, they help regulate the interaction between the parasympathetic and sympathetic divisions autonomic nervous system, allowing you to streamline the change of processes of activity and rest. Due to this, sleep is normalized, efficiency increases, which is replaced by the natural onset of fatigue after completing labor-intensive processes, and overexcitation is prevented, which does not allow a person to relax and fully rest;
3. External attractiveness. The action of natural estrogens is aimed not only at eliminating internal ailments, but also at maintaining the natural beauty of a woman. Decrease in output natural hormones leads to the launch of aging processes: the condition of the skin, hair, nails sharply deteriorates, a restructuring of the figure according to the male type occurs, overweight. Taking phytoestrogens helps to resist the occurrence of these manifestations and postpone them to a later date.
4. Absorption of calcium by the body. Phytoestrogens, together with vitamin D, help to fully absorb this microelement from food and vitamin-mineral complexes, counteracting the development of a disease characteristic of this time - osteoporosis, which manifests itself in increased fragility of bone tissue.

Vitamin and mineral preparations supplemented with these plant substances are most often used as a source of phytoestrogens. Examples of such complexes are:

• Qi-Clim;
• Klimadinon;
• Estrovel;
• Menopace;
• Remens;
• Mense.

HRT

Hormone replacement therapy can be justified only if the syndrome develops too rapidly and the woman’s health is extremely adversely affected by hormonal imbalances. In this case, delay can be dangerous and becomes less effective.

It is important to remember that HRT is a last resort, the use of which should be limited in time, and treatment should be carried out under the strict supervision of a specialist. Unfortunately, long-term treatment hormonal drugs causes increased risk occurrence of cancer, for example, various types cancer of the female genital organs and mammary glands.

Premenopause is important preparatory stage restructuring of the female body. And although this phenomenon is exciting and, moreover, it is often accompanied by negative symptoms, it is important to consider it not only from a negative perspective, but also from the perspective of emerging opportunities. As a rule, by this time children no longer require as much attention as before, a woman has time to care for herself and organize her own leisure time, her sexuality reaches its peak, and the need to worry about the onset of unwanted pregnancy disappears. Menopause is not the end of life, but a phenomenon provided for by nature itself, the course of which largely depends on the correct attitude and preventive measures taken.

Hi girls! The first sign of menopause in women is observed after 45 years in the form of general vegetative symptoms. Over the course of 10 years, the symptoms progress and gradually the menstrual cycle ends first, and then gradually, against the general background of changes in the body, they cease their cycle. hormonal function ovaries. In this article we will analyze the periods of menopause and find out early signs and reasons for the cessation of reproductive function. And also what to do, how to treat.

The fertile period is divided into 4 stages - puberty, maturity, menopause and old age. With age, reproductive function gradually declines. With a decrease in hormone levels and cessation of the activity of the genital organs, namely the production of estrogen and progesterone.

Each representative of the fair sex experiences this stage of decline differently. Some people do not feel any changes, while others are experiencing menopause with a pathological course. Approximately half of all women have neurological, endocrine, and vascular disorders during menopause. Performance may decrease and quality of life may deteriorate.

In fact, menopause is divided into 3 periods:

1. Premenopausal – usually occurs after 45 years of age. Menstrual bleeding still persists. but become irregular and scanty due to a decrease in the secretion of progesterone and estrogen. This moment is the very first signal about changes in the body.
2. Menopause is the cessation of regular menstruation (around age 50), but the possibility of unexpected bleeding still remains; the ability to conceive during this period is almost absent.
3. Postmenopausal – up to 70 years. Complete cessation of the synthesis of progesterone and estrogen.

The age criteria for the stages are quite arbitrary. Therefore, it is important to know the first signs of menopause in women in order to choose in time to support the whole body.

Early signs

Many ladies are not even aware of the onset of menopause. They visit therapists with complaints about high pressure, pain in the heart, as well as with neuroses and depression.

The period of the first early manifestations usually lasts the entire premenopausal stage and a couple of postmenopausal years. Then unpleasant symptoms develop into more serious metabolic disorders.

At the initial stages the following are observed:

• “Hot flashes” are sudden attacks of heat that are not related to temperature environment. A feeling of chills may also suddenly occur.
• Headaches and migraines.
• Increased sweating.
• Blood pressure surges.
• Increased heart rate, rhythm disturbance.
• Decreased bone mineralization, which leads to the development.

The changes affect not only general state body, but also affects the psycho-emotional sphere. A woman may experience memory disorders, increased fatigue and drowsiness, and decreased sexual desire. The approaching menopause also affects mood - irritability increases, and depression may develop.

How menopause begins in women - symptoms

How menopause progresses depends on many factors. The severity is determined by hormonal levels, general condition, and heredity.

Hot flashes accompany almost all women; their intensity can vary.

1. A mild feeling of “hotness” can be felt from 1 to 10 times during the day.
2. Average – up to 20.
3. Severe hot flashes can occur more than 20 times a day.

Interesting: the state of sudden fever is explained by vasomotor (vascular) disorders. This dilates the capillaries, causing blood to flow to the head, neck and body. The rise can be observed from 2 to 5 degrees Celsius.

The fever often begins at night, causing insomnia, sweating and increased heart rate. Hot flashes are often accompanied by dizziness and weakness.

Watch a very useful video.

About 20 percent of women are susceptible to early period neurotic disorders– sudden changes in mood, aggression, irritability, tearfulness.

These signs are the most common, but atypical manifestations are also distinguished:

• Arterial hypertension, accompanied by migraines, increased urination (possibly the reverse process - urinary retention).
• Intense heart pain without changes on the cardiogram and not relieved by standard means of therapy.
• Exacerbation of the immunological status - skin rashes, urticaria, allergic runny nose and lacrimation are observed. In rare cases, sudden intolerance to medications or certain types of foods (which the woman had previously safely consumed) occurs.

Unfortunately, mild premenopausal symptoms are quite rare. Only 1/6 of women experience a period of decline with virtually no discomfort. Usually these are representatives of the fair sex without chronic diseases and leading a healthy and active lifestyle.

Almost all women with chronic pathologies experiencing menopause is difficult. Risk factors also include endocrine and hormonal disorders, irregular menstruation. Early onset of menopause (before 40 years), absence of pregnancy and childbirth.

Early menopause

This pathological condition begins at the age of 35-40 years. This is usually associated with a burdened gynecological history (urogenital diseases, frequent miscarriages and abortions), autoimmune diseases, surgery and tumor processes of the ovaries.

The first sign of this process is a change in the monthly cycle. First, the intervals between bleeding lengthen, reaching 1 cycle within six months. Due to a decrease in estrogen production, hot flashes, sweating, and shortness of breath begin. During physical activity, heart pain and dizziness are observed.

Due to a slowdown in lipid metabolism, body weight increases, and fat mass is deposited in the abdominal area according to the “male” type. Also, a state of depression and depression contributes to weight gain.

Hair growth increases - “moustaches” appear above the upper lip and hair on the chin.

The main danger of the early onset of menopause is an increase in the frequency of intrauterine bleeding, primary infertility, problems with thyroid gland and an increase in the likelihood of developing cancer processes.

For differential diagnosis the onset of menopause from amenorrhea after 35 years, a blood test for hormones, an ultrasound to evaluate the endometrium and colposcopy are prescribed. It is important to separate the onset of decline in ovarian function from tumors of the pituitary gland, pathologies of the thyroid gland and adrenal glands.

How to help

First of all, at the first signs of menopause, a woman should contact her treating gynecologist. He will be able to assess the severity of manifestations and prescribe both hormonal replacement and symptomatic therapy. You should also undergo an examination on a chair with a cytological sample of the cervix taken, an ultrasound of the pelvic organs and a mammogram.

The main problem with menopause symptoms is its negative reaction to standard treatment methods. The doctor can eliminate the symptoms with the help of non-hormonal agents and with the introduction of estrogen.

The most effective treatment is hormonal, which helps relieve almost all unpleasant symptoms. Usually small doses of natural estrogens are used, which are combined with progesterone for preventive purposes (helps to avoid hyperplasia of uterine tissue). Hormones help reduce the likelihood of developing osteoporotic changes, strokes and heart attacks. Be sure to visit a gynecologist 2 times a year, or more often.

However, this treatment has its contraindications:

• Uterine bleeding of unknown etiology.
• Cancerous changes in the genital organs.
• Blood clotting disorder.
• Kidney or liver failure.
• Thrombosis.

Antidepressants and drugs for the prevention of osteoporosis (biophosphonates) are usually used as symptomatic treatment.

Drug-free therapy is used, this is an integral treatment for the rest of life. Banal physiotherapy every day, helps to cope with the restructuring of the body.

Balneotherapy is a treatment method using mineral and radon baths in natural climatic conditions in spring or autumn (very hot in summer).

The first sign in a woman during menopause begins with scanty periods and there may also be mild hot flashes. This is a natural process physiological period, the transition from puberty to the period of cessation of reproductive function. Correct lifestyle and rational therapy will help you endure unpleasant symptoms more easily, as well as reduce the risk of complications.

You can write a lot of articles about menopause, a lot of different examples and situations, in my case the first sign was those slight showers of heat and then cold. Now they are more obvious, because the second period of menopause is still underway. To weaken them, I am looking for my own treatment, I described.

Hang in there girls, we'll make it through! Take care of yourself and your loved ones!

Throughout life, the functioning of a woman's reproductive system goes through a number of stages, and the final stage is menopause. Most often it occurs at about 50 years of age, but it may develop earlier or later.

Menopause is a period of complete irreversible cessation of menstruation, associated with the completion of the production of sex hormones in the ovaries. It is preceded by premenopause, during which signs of estrogen deficiency appear and increase. And 5 years after the end of menstruation they talk about postpenopause.

Reasons for the attack

Female sex hormones produced in the ovaries cause cyclic changes in the uterus and the entire body. Estrogen, which acts in the first phase of the ovarian-menstrual cycle, is necessary for the growth of the endometrium and maturation of the follicle. It is this hormone that determines the development of secondary sexual characteristics and affects the condition of the skin and its appendages. Progesterone is necessary primarily to maintain the ongoing pregnancy; a sharp drop in its level at the end of the cycle provokes the onset of menstruation.

From about 30-35 years old, a woman begins to deplete her supply of follicles. At the same time, more and more anovulatory cycles appear, and estrogen production begins to gradually decrease. This is due to a decrease in the sensitivity of ovarian tissue to the regulatory hormones of the pituitary gland and slowly progressive sclerosis of the parenchyma of the gonads.

At first connective tissue appears only in the area of ​​ovulated follicles, then the entire ovary is involved in the process. The rate of these changes increases with the appearance of age-related and atherosclerotic changes in the walls that supply the vascular organ. As a result, by the age of 50, the ovaries often look smaller, dense, and wrinkled.

It is currently believed that the reactivity of the nervous and endocrine systems, especially the level of production of adrenocorticotropic hormone from the pituitary gland, is also of great importance in reducing the functioning of the ovaries. Studies have been conducted with the transplantation of practically non-functioning ovaries from aging animals to young ones. At the same time, the transplanted organ began to produce sex hormones again, and the maturation of the remaining follicles in it resumed. And in old animals, implantation of ovaries from young animals did not prevent menopause, but only slightly delayed its onset. These results confirm the influence of general neuroendocrine status on the development of menopause.

At first general level There is still enough estrogen in the body, because this hormone is produced not only in the ovaries. It is synthesized in small quantities from androgens by peripheral tissues, mainly subcutaneous fat. But there is nothing to compensate for the growing lack of progesterone. As a result, an imbalance of sex hormones occurs, which affects the regularity of menstruation and can lead to unwanted changes in the uterus and other internal organs.

Subsequently, estrogen deficiency takes first place in the pathogenesis of menopause. Receptors for this hormone are found not only in the uterus. They are found in the hypothalamus, vascular walls, skin and many other organs. This is the reason for the multiplicity of symptoms that accompany the menopausal period.

When does menopause occur?

The age at which menopause occurs depends on many factors. These include heredity, presence bad habits(smoking, alcoholism and drug use), level of daily physical activity, presence of chronic diseases of the reproductive system, condition of the pituitary gland. All this also affects how long the period between the onset of menopause and the complete cessation of menstruation lasts.

The first signs of decline in the function of the reproductive system often appear at the age of 40, when there is a lengthening of the menstrual cycle and a decrease in the amount of blood released during menstruation. Manifestations of menopausal syndrome usually debut within several years after this. The duration of premenopause can range from six months to 7-8 years.

If menopausal syndrome begins at 30-35 years of age, they speak of early menopause. Complete loss of ovarian function occurs by the age of 40.

Is menopause possible after medical interventions?

Sometimes the cessation of menstruation and menopausal changes in the body are iatrogenic. After surgical removal ovaries (or most of them), chemotherapy or radiation exposure to the pelvic organs, artificial menopause occurs. It is also called post-castration or post-variectomy syndrome.

Removal of the ovaries or suppression of their function is carried out for the following diseases:

1. malignant neoplasms of the ovaries themselves;
2. cancer of the endometrium, body or cervix;
3. extensive purulent damage to the ovaries and other pelvic organs;
4. cancer of the colon and rectum with germination into neighboring organs and involvement of the uterine appendages;
5. widespread progressive (in the absence of effect from conservative therapy);
6. malignant neoplasm in bladder with radiation therapy;
7. breast cancer, if the influence of estrogen levels on the tumor growth rate is confirmed;
8. chemotherapy for oncohematology.

An acute estrogen deficiency leads to the rapid and rapid development of a whole complex of disorders to which the body does not have time to adapt. Therefore, signs of menopause after removal of the ovaries (or abrupt cessation of their functioning) are usually very pronounced.

A condition similar to artificial menopause can also develop during organ-preserving surgical gynecological interventions. For example, during uncomplicated amputation or extirpation of the uterus, they try not to remove the ovaries. But disruption of their blood supply during ligation of the uterine arteries can lead to cessation of estrogen production with the appearance of neuroendocrine and metabolic signs of menopausal syndrome. It is important to understand that the cessation of menstruation after removal of the uterus while maintaining active ovarian function is not true menopause.

What is perimenopause

Natural age-related menopause does not develop suddenly. Over the course of several years, characteristic disturbances appear and increase. Moreover, they affect not only the menstrual cycle. Autonomic and neuroendocrine disorders are noted, the condition of the mucous membrane of the genital organs, skin and subcutaneous tissue changes. This period is called premenopause, and menopause begins with it. Closer to menopause, in addition to external symptoms Irreversible and progressive changes in many internal organs also appear.

In this case, the cycle becomes irregular, possible frequent unsystematic bleeding or long periods of absence of menstruation. Such disorders may appear at the age of 45 years. Gradually, menstruation becomes more and more rare and scanty, and after a while it finally stops. If they are absent for more than 12 months, they speak of the onset of menopause. Wherein external manifestations estrogen deficiency persists for some time, the body gradually adapts to the new state.

Is it possible to get pregnant during this period? Many women with the onset of perimenopause begin to neglect contraception. In fact, the risk of pregnancy and pregnancy still remains, which is associated with the presence of rare ovulatory cycles and inconsistent levels of sex hormones. Sometimes the cessation of menstruation due to pregnancy is taken as a sign of menopause, and the discovery of a developing fetus during a routine ultrasound comes as a surprise.

Manifestations of menopause

Usually the first worrying symptom is hot flashes - sudden autonomic attacks in the form of waves of heat felt in the face and upper body. In this case, the skin turns red unevenly, and a vascular marble pattern is visible on it. The fever is replaced by chills and sweating, especially pronounced at night. During the day, hot flashes occur repeatedly and without visible reasons. They can persist for several years after menopause periods have completely stopped.

Hot flashes occur in almost 80% of menopausal women. The severity and frequency of these vasomotor disorders can increase with the consumption of coffee and spices, foods with sulfites and nitrates; they are also often provoked by alcohol and tobacco smoking. It is believed that the hypothalamus plays a major role in the development of hot flashes. This is the section of the brain in which the higher centers of the autonomic nervous system are located. Lack of estrogen disinhibits the neurosecretory function of the hypothalamus and leads to increased activity of the sympathetic-adrenal system.

Due to pronounced hot flashes in the evening and at night, sleep may be disturbed. A change in its depth and duration leads to a lack of feeling of rest in the morning, irritability and absent-mindedness during the day. Concomitant complaints of memory impairment are not directly related to menopause, they are caused by changes in the walls cerebral vessels for atherosclerosis and hypertension. But decreased concentration due to hot flashes and insomnia leads to worsening problems with short-term memory. Emotional lability with tearfulness and sudden changes moods.

During premenopause, there may also be complaints of numbness and tingling in the fingers, chilliness of the legs, palpitations, a feeling of lack of air, and transient non-systemic mild dizziness. All this is usually a manifestation of autonomic lability and a sharp change in the tone of peripheral vessels during menopause. But you should not attribute all symptoms to hormonal imbalance; there is a risk of developing concomitant neurological and cardiovascular diseases. And the symptoms of menopause in women in this case can mask the first signs of a serious pathology.

Instability of blood pressure often appears, which predisposes to the development of hypertension. Moreover, a woman may not associate the dizziness, palpitations and some other symptoms with this pathology for a long time, remaining without the necessary treatment.

Impact on systems and organs

Autonomic disorders during menopause are an unpleasant but transitory phenomenon. But the changes that occur in the internal organs can cause various complications already in the postpenopausal period. They are associated with atrophy and changes in the structure of tissues deprived of estrogen influence, as well as with secondary developing metabolic and neuroendocrine disorders.

The first changes to occur are in the genitals. In the initial stages of premenopause, progesterone deficiency predominates, which causes excessive proliferation (growth) of the endometrium. In this case, the uterus may be slightly enlarged and soft, giving the impression of being juicy and full. Subsequently, increasing estrogen deficiency becomes the cause of atrophic processes in the walls of the vagina, uterus and urethra. Mammary glands lose most of the fat layer, the alveolar lobules in them become sclerotic and shrink. Due to concomitant mastopathy, breasts often hurt.

During menopause, the uterus and ovaries decrease in size by almost a third, the endometrium thins and becomes homogeneous. The vagina shortens and straightens, its walls lose elasticity and firmness. The production of mucus, which performs protective function and is a breeding ground for beneficial lactobacilli. This leads to the development of atrophic colpitis, which is accompanied by a feeling of dryness, irritation and itching. Sexual intercourse becomes painful, and concomitant microtraumas of the vaginal mucosa can cause bleeding and support the inflammatory process.

As muscle atrophy begins with a decrease in the tone of the pelvic floor and urethra, urinary incontinence may occur. At first, it appears only with strong straining, coughing, sneezing and laughing. Subsequently, the degree of dysuria increases, and due to the slightly open mouth of the urethra, the development of an ascending infection is possible excretory system. Cystitis is often diagnosed.

Estrogen has a preventive effect on the cardiovascular system, increasing the elasticity of artery walls and increasing the degree of adaptation of the body to stress. Due to a deficiency of this hormone during menopause, blood vessels become denser, and the ability to compensate for changes in blood pressure is reduced. This increases the risk of vascular accidents - myocardial infarction and stroke.

In the musculoskeletal system, a redistribution of minerals and proteins occurs, and the collagen content decreases. As a result, bones become more fragile and intervertebral discs and articular cartilage becomes thinner and less able to withstand dynamic loads. The skin and subcutaneous tissue lose elasticity, the condition changes hair follicles and nails. Characteristic is the deposition of fat in the area of ​​the 7th cervical vertebra, which leads to the formation of a densely elastic hump. It is called menopausal or widow's.

Complicated course of the menopausal period

Complications that develop during menopause include:

1. severe course of menopausal syndrome, when existing autonomic disorders deplete the woman;
2. pathological fractures of the vertebrae and femoral neck due to developing osteoporosis;
3. breakthrough uterine bleeding associated with hormonal changes;
4. endometrial hyperplasia during menopause, which increases the risk of developing uterine cancer;
5. the appearance of fibroids in the body of the uterus, which can degenerate or cause bleeding due to poor contraction of the walls of the organ;
6. the appearance of mastopathy and tumor-like formations in the mammary glands, threatening the development of breast cancer;
7. early menopause, which may be due to hereditary factor, existing diseases or rapid depletion of the ovaries after stimulation and irrational use of hormonal drugs.

Menopause is a period of restructuring of the entire body, and this process does not always go smoothly. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly contact a gynecologist and undergo routine oncological examinations, which will allow timely detection of dangerous complications.

Tests for menopause include smears for oncocytology and vaginal microflora, and. If necessary, an X-ray examination of the spine and hand bones is performed to determine the severity of osteoporosis. This is complemented by a blood test assessing mineral metabolism indicators.

Is therapy needed?

Soft current menopausal period does not require medical intervention, the woman’s body itself adapts to the new condition. Treatment of menopause is carried out with frequent hot flashes, severe neuroendocrine disorders, and obvious atrophic colpitis. Therapy is also mandatory immediately after removal of the ovaries. Yes, and premature menopause requires correction of emerging disorders.

To treat atrophic colpitis, suppositories with a small content of estrogens or phytoestrogens are used, which improves the condition of the vaginal mucosa. For severe autonomic disorders and frequent hot flashes, combined herbal preparations, they are available in the form of drops or tablets. You can also use fees medicinal plants or individual herbs. Homeopathic remedies are often prescribed.

Vitamins during menopause help support the production of estrogen outside the ovaries, improve metabolism and the condition of the cardiovascular system. In addition to a diet high in polyunsaturated fatty acids and fiber, vitamins A, C, E, D are prescribed in isolated form or as part of multivitamin complexes. It is also advisable to saturate the body with calcium.

Hormone replacement therapy

The rapid course of menopause, a tendency to uterine bleeding, early onset of menopause and post-castration syndrome are indications for low-dose hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Tablets are most commonly used, but patches or other dosage forms. Hormone therapy medications are prescribed by a doctor. In this case, regular monitoring of the condition of target organs (uterus, ovaries, mammary glands), liver and venous system is necessary.

Non-hormonal drugs for menopause

Taking non-hormonal medications helps improve well-being and reduce the number of hot flashes. According to indications, antidepressants and mood stabilizers, anticonvulsants and antihypertensive drugs. They can be supplemented with physical therapy.

All these measures will not prevent the onset of menopause, but they will avoid complications and soften the course of menopause syndrome.

How to delay menopause?

To prevent early cessation of ovarian function, you need to get rid of bad habits,, if possible, cure existing chronic diseases and lead an active lifestyle with sufficient physical activity. You should not arbitrarily use a variety of drugs that affect the condition. endocrine system and ovarian function. It is also important to adjust your menu by entering sea ​​fish, fresh vegetables and fruits, natural vegetable oils. It is undesirable to eat heavy foods and a lot of animal fats.

To independently confirm characteristic hormonal changes, you can use a menopause test, which is designed to determine the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone in the urine. If a prolonged increase in its concentration is detected, it is advisable to consult a doctor to develop tactics for further behavior and select treatment.

Menopause is a natural period in a woman's life. It cannot be avoided, but you can significantly reduce discomfort and the risk of complications.