What is Menopause?

Menopause is the point at which a woman has not experienced a period for 12 months. At this point she is said to be in menopause.

Each woman experiences menopause in their own unique way. Some women may be free of symptoms while others will struggle with symptoms.

Fluctuating hormones levels may cause:

irregular periods
night sweats
hot flashes (or hot flushes)
fatigue
aches and pains
change in sexual desire
changes in the texture of appearance of the skin
difficulty with bladder control
vaginal dryness
difficulty sleeping
mood swings
memory loss

For mild symptoms the following lifestyle modifications may be helpful:

Reducing the body’s temperature
Regular exercise
Weight management
Stop smoking
Avoid known triggers such as hot drinks and alcohol

For more severe symptoms hormone therapy is the most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms. Talk to your doctors about what treatment option is best for you!

Some helpful websites:

Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada
www.menopauseandu.ca

North American Menopause Society-Patient information booklet
www.menopause.org/edumaterials/guidebook.aspx