Menopause in women refers to the decline in ovarian function and cessation of menstruation—an inevitable and pivotal stage in every woman's life, marking the transition from peak vitality to decline. Typically, menopause occurs between ages 45 and 55. So, what physical changes occur before and after menopause?
Typically, premenopausal symptoms primarily include the following aspects:
1. Changes in menstrual rhythm: Cycle lengthening, extended intervals between periods, or skipping two to three months before resuming its natural pattern. This alternation between amenorrhea and regular menstruation may persist for one to two years. Some women experience shorter cycles with excessive menstrual frequency during this period.
2. Changes in menstrual blood appearance: Blood color may lighten to pink or darken, sometimes appearing blackish, with small clots and fibrous fragments. Menstrual flow volume also varies—some women experience gradual reduction, while others may have increased bleeding or heavy flow. Period duration changes too: some cycles shorten progressively, while others lengthen, potentially lasting up to 10 days.
III. Facial Flushing and Heat: Heat radiates upward from the lower body to the entire face, often accompanied by noticeable vasodilation, redness, and generalized sweating. Dizziness and vertigo may occur simultaneously. The severity of flushing varies—some experience redness confined to the face and neck, while others endure frequent and intense episodes.
IV. Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction and Limb Numbness: Particularly at night, abnormal sensations and cramps in the extremities, heaviness in the lower limbs, a feeling of uncertainty about where to place the legs, lower abdominal pain, palpitations, chest pain, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, and fainting. Commonly accompanied by irritability, emotional instability, frequent outbursts, and occasionally suspicion or depression.
Changes in postmenopausal women, such as:
1. Urogenital atrophy: Worsens with increasing years since menopause. Without hormone replacement therapy, atrophic changes persist lifelong. Vaginal atrophy reduces resistance, leading to senile vaginitis and urinary tract infections. Some women develop stress urinary incontinence, decreased pelvic muscle tone, and uterine prolapse.
2. Osteoporosis: Adequate calcium intake must be ensured. Premenopausal women should consume 1000 mg of elemental calcium daily, while postmenopausal women require 1500 mg daily.
3. Coronary Heart Disease: Premenopausal women have a lower incidence of coronary heart disease than men. After menopause, the incidence rate increases significantly, indicating estrogen provides cardiovascular protection in women.Postmenopausal coronary heart disease is also associated with hypertension, obesity, reduced physical activity, and diabetes.
In summary, menopause is an inevitable physiological process. There is no need for undue concern, as these discomforts are temporary. Prepare mentally to embrace the work and life of later years with calmness and resolve. Medication may be considered when necessary.Additionally, engage in regular outdoor activities, maintain moderate exercise, establish consistent sleep patterns, avoid staying up late, quit smoking and drinking, and consume foods rich in vitamins C and E along with phytoestrogens to support ovarian health.