Menopause brings an end to the woman’s menstrual cycle. It is a process rather than an event that marks the end of the reproductive years. It is unique to every woman. Some women experience signs of menopause in their 40s, while others can occur much later in their 50s or 60s. Here are signs of menopause and how BHRT can help.

Hot Flashes 

Hot flashes and sometimes cold flashes are common in menopause, affecting more than 60 percent of women. The cause is unclear, but it may be due to the sudden dilation of blood vessels. The vessels on the skin’s surface dilate to cool the body. It may be connected to a change in circulation or the hypothalamus responsible for temperature control. 

Irregular Periods 

The first sign of menopause is usually irregular periods. The periods become less reliable, making it difficult to determine when they begin and end. For women who have always had irregular periods, this does not apply. The period can stop for one or two months before returning. Some women note changes in the flow, experiencing a lighter flow for most days. 

Sleep Issues 

Many women experience sleep problems when going through menopause. Lower progesterone and estrogen can lead to sleep apnea, which interferes with breathing during sleep. Sleeplessness can also be due to night sweats, which affect sleep quality. Menopause-related anxiety and depression can lead to sleeplessness. 

Night Sweats

Night sweats, much like hot flashes, are a common sign of menopause. Many women become drenched in sweat from head to toe during the night. Waking up to change the bedsheets and night clothes becomes a routine. It usually leads to inadequate sleep, which can cause various health complications as the body fails to rest and rejuvenate adequately. 

Weight Gain 

Slow metabolism is common during menopause. It results in weight gain in many women. The weight issues differ from those experienced when younger, where fat is usually stored in the hips and thighs. During menopause, most of the fat goes directly to the belly. The fat accumulates under the muscles and around major organs. It increases the risk of diabetes. 

Vaginal Dryness 

Estrogen in the body system causes the vaginal walls to be soft, thick, and pliable. Its reduction during menopause changes the vaginal environment. 

Loss of hormones causes the skin to thin and dry out, making sex uncomfortable or painful. However, hormone therapy can help treat this issue.

Body Changes 

Menopause results in internal and external body changes. External changes include hair loss or thinning due to reduced hormones. Women experience menopausal breasts that are tender and tend to shrink and sag or lose fullness.

Women can benefit from hormone replacement when menopausal symptoms become severe or uncomfortable. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help ease the transition. Hormone-releasing pellets provide the correct dosage, setting the body chemistry where it should be.

For more on signs of menopause and how BHRT can help, visit Full Life at our Nashville, Tennessee office. Call (615) 805-5600 to schedule an appointment today.