October is widely recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but did you know it's also Menopause Awareness Month? Menopause is a natural part of aging that occurs when a woman's menstrual periods stop permanently, defined as having no period for 12 consecutive months.
In the U.S., the average age for menopause is 52, although it can begin anytime between the ages of 40 and 58. Once a woman reaches menopause, she is no longer able to become pregnant.
The transition to menopause, known as perimenopause, can last anywhere from 2 to 8 years and is often accompanied by irregular periods and symptoms related to menopause.
Symptoms include but are not limited to:
- Hot Flashes: this is the most common symptom of menopause. This may cause a sudden feeling of heat throughout the body.
- Vaginal Dryness: this can make sex uncomfortable.
- Irregular Periods: periods may be lighter or heavier and can change in frequency.
- Difficulty Sleeping.
- Feeling forgetful or having difficulty focusing.
- Urinary Problems: such as leaking urine after a cough/sneeze or it may be difficult to hold in urine before reaching a bathroom.
- Mood Changes.
- Decreased interest in sex.
There are many ways to maintain good health during menopause. It’s recommended to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise each week.
Resistance or strength training is particularly important during and after menopause, as hormonal changes increase the risk of osteoporosis—a condition that weakens bones. Resistance training has been proven to strengthen bones and reduce this risk.
A diet rich in whole foods, fiber, minerals, and vitamins—especially vitamin D and calcium—is also essential for maintaining bone health. Quitting smoking is another key step in staying healthy, as smoking contributes to heart disease and cancer, and further weakens bones.
Lastly, it’s important to continue practicing safe sex. During perimenopause, women can still become pregnant, so birth control is recommended.
Additionally, using barrier contraception helps protect against sexually transmitted infections.
While menopause itself typically doesn’t require treatment, some symptoms and related conditions, such as heart disease and osteoporosis, may benefit from medical intervention.
If you're struggling with menopause symptoms, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to explore potential treatment options. Menopause is a natural part of aging, and being informed about the changes that can occur during this phase allows you to take a proactive approach to managing your health throughout the transition.
Dr. Tovar is a resident physician who sees patients of all ages and provides obstetrical services at Lone Star Family Health Center, a non-profit 501©3 Federally Qualified Health Center operating facilities in Conroe, Spring, Willis, Grangerland, and Huntsville, and serving as home to a fully integrated Family Medicine Residency Program to increase the number of Family Medicine physicians for Texas and our community.
