Postmenopause refers to the time after a woman's final menstrual period. It signals the end of a woman's reproductive years.
The term "menopause" actually describes the full transition period in which a woman's body makes its natural shift away from childbearing. This menopausal transition starts with subtle changes to the menstrual cycle. It ends a year after the final period. The entire process usually lasts between two to eight years.
Postmenopause starts once 12 full months have passed since the last menstrual cycle. At this point, menstrual periods have stopped completely and they will not return.
There are both physical and emotional changes associated with postmenopause:
While some symptoms eventually fade on their own, most women need to proactively manage their health during postmenopause.
Lifestyle changes like avoiding tobacco, eating healthy, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol help minimize symptoms. Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can ease vaginal dryness and discomfort.
However, the reduced estrogen during postmenopause leaves some women more vulnerable to issues like osteoporosis and heart disease. In those cases, doctors may prescribe hormone therapy or other medications to help protect long-term health.
"The knowledgeable and caring staff at The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic can help create a personalized plan to comfortably manage your transition into postmenopause. Call today to schedule your assessment."
Postmenopause comprises the rest of a woman's life following her reproductive years. With lifestyle management and proper medical care as needed, many women enjoy robust health and activity levels well into these later decades.
In summary, postmenopause indicates the point when a woman's reproductive capacity has ended for good. It ushers in physical changes, menopausal symptoms, and specific health risks that women should address. With the right awareness and support, the postmenopausal years can be a rewarding time.