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The 3 Phases of Menopause
There's some confusion around the different phases of menopause, largely because the Swedish term 'Klimakteriet' covers the entire process. In English, however, it's typically broken down into three, sometimes four, phases. The following three-phase model is widely accepted and helps us understand what happens during these periods.
Phase 1
Perimenopause
(PERIMENOPAUSE)
The time before your periods stop.
During perimenopause, hormones can fluctuate significantly. This usually begins in your 40s (but can start as early as 35). Many don't realise their symptoms are linked to perimenopause because we simply don't talk about menopause enough.
This phase lasts for an average of four to seven years. Symptoms are often caused by a condition known as oestrogen dominance – an imbalance between oestrogen and declining progesterone, which, among other things, makes ovulation less frequent.
Common symptoms/issues:
Irritability
Feelings of inadequacy
Feeling wound up
Worry & anxiety
Mood swings
Sleep problems
Sometimes increased libido
Heavy bleeding
Shorter menstrual cycles
Tender breasts
Iron deficiency
Weight gain
Phase 2
The time around Menopause
(MENOPAUSE)
When you have been period-free for 12 consecutive months.
During menopause, oestrogen drops to permanently low levels, which can lead to more (and sometimes more intense) common menopausal symptoms. Many women suffer through this period because they don't get the help they need. Symptoms related to menopause are common from the late 40s to the 50s, and periods become less frequent until they stop completely.
Menopause — the final menstrual period — occurs on average at the age of 51.4. The levels of the sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone drop significantly, and some women experience severe symptoms during this time.
Common symptoms/issues:
Sadness, "lump in the throat" feeling
Crying for no reason
Feelings of indifference
Depression & worry
Fatigue
Brain fog
Decreased libido
Cravings for sugar & carbohydrates
Hot flushes
Low self-esteem
Depression
Night sweats
Scant/infrequent/no periods
Joint pain
Tingling skin (formication)
Irregular heartbeat
Dry skin
Vaginal dryness
Frequent urinary tract infections
Incontinence
Weight gain
Phase 3
Postmenopause
(POSTMENOPAUSE)
The rest of your life (after your last period)
For some women, life after menopause is something to look forward to. You no longer have to worry about periods, sanitary products, or contraception. However, menopause can bring about more permanent changes in your body. For some, sleep disturbances continue post-menopause and may require treatment to get back on track. For others, vaginal dryness remains a problem.
After menopause, the risk of other health conditions can increase. It's important to monitor your body and attend regular check-ups.
Common symptoms/issues:
Thinning hair
Dry eyes
Bone or joint problems (e.g., osteoporosis & arthritis)
Cardiovascular diseases
Type II Diabetes
Urinary tract infections
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