Menopause is complicated. The truth is that it can affect every woman differently. The specific symptoms, as well as their severity, that a woman experiences during her transition into menopause and after its completion can vary drastically from person to person. This is why we feel it is so important for women to understand what menopause may entail in order to properly adjust to their transition.
There are several symptoms commonly associated with menopause including hot flashes, erratic moods, vaginal dryness, and decreased sex drive. However, the effects of menopause can be far more wide-reaching than this for some women. That’s why our reproductive healthcare providers wanted to take some time to detail a few of the less common menopause symptoms that women should be aware of.
Heart Disease
Women who have already gone through menopause can have a higher risk of heart disease and blood vessel issues. During menopause, a woman’s body stops naturally producing the hormone estrogen. Depleted estrogen levels can increase a woman’s risk for developing conditions commonly associated with heart disease like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. We recommend eating healthy, exercising regularly, and being proactive when it comes to heart health.
Urinary Tract Infections
Menopause can also lead to an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) for some women. During menopause, many women experience a weakening of the vaginal walls and a thinning of the urethra that may allow bacteria to more easily reach the bladder. This lingering bacteria is a common cause of UTIs. In the case of a UTI, a course of oral antibiotics can be an effective treatment.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can also occur as a result of menopause. Low estrogen can also trigger a period of bone loss in many women, especially during the perimenopausal and menopausal periods. The longer a woman’s estrogen levels are depleted, the more bone mass she may lose. This is why women who experience early menopause are often especially susceptible to osteoporosis. Thankfully, there are measures women can take to keep their bones healthy and strong as they enter menopause including exercising regularly and eating a diet rich in nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
We understand that menopause is a complex issue and many readers may have additional questions of their own. If this is the case, please don’t hesitate to contact Gynecology Associates of Gwinnett to request an appointment with one of our reproductive healthcare experts today. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for additional tips, news, updates, and more. Also, ask us about our new medical spa, MadEmEl Medical Aesthetics.