Menopause in women

Menopause in women is a natural physiological process during which reproductive function declines due to age-related hormonal changes. This stage is accompanied by a decrease in the production of female sex hormones, as well as neuroendocrine, vasomotor, and metabolic changes. The main symptoms are hot flashes, increased sweating, dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, spikes in blood pressure, headaches, and mood swings.

Signs of menopause in women

Menopause is a genetically programmed process. Typically, it occurs between the ages of 45-55, but if changes occur before the age of 40-42, it is referred to as premature menopause.

In addition to hereditary factors, premature menopause can be triggered by:

• overweight;
• an unbalanced diet and strict diets;
• smoking and passive smoking;
• infrequent sexual intercourse.

To maintain health, doctors recommend quitting smoking, adhering to sleep and rest rules, eating properly, and regularly engaging in physical activity.

How does menopause begin in women?

The first symptoms of menopause include

• a decrease in libido;
• insomnia;
• attention and concentration disorders;
• hot flashes, chills, excessive sweating;
• daytime drowsiness;
• headaches;
• palpitations;
• irritability and mood swings.

Changes in the genitourinary system can lead to:

• pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse;
• vaginal dryness and itching;
• urethral syndrome.

Other possible effects include:

• brittle hair and nails;
• more pronounced wrinkles;
• increased risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritis, and arthritis.

Menopause treatment in women

Treatment is necessary when menopause symptoms significantly impair the quality of life. The main method for correcting hormonal imbalance is hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

The doctor selects medications individually, considering indications, contraindications, potential risks, and expected benefits for the patient.

The possibility of motherhood during menopause

Despite age-related changes, menopausal women still have the opportunity to become mothers through assisted reproductive techniques. However, pregnancy at this age is associated with increased medical risks, including:

• hypertension;
• gestational diabetes;
• premature labor;
• complications during childbirth.

It is therefore necessary to undergo a comprehensive medical examination and consult a specialist before planning a pregnancy. In such cases, it is possible to resort to

• IVF (in vitro fertilization with cryopreserved own eggs);
• IVF with egg donation;
• IVF with double donation (eggs and sperm from a donor).

These techniques allow women who have lost their natural fertility a chance to become mothers even after the onset of menopause.

Contraindications to hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy is contraindicated in the following cases:

• autoimmune diseases;
• hypertension;
• thrombosis;
• breast cancer or suspicion of breast cancer;
• endometrial hyperplasia;
• acute liver and biliary tract diseases.

With caution, HRT is prescribed to women suffering from uterine fibroids, endometriosis, epilepsy, migraine, and other chronic diseases.

Where to get a consultation?

The Natuvitro clinic employs specialists in reproduction and experienced obstetrician-gynecologists who can provide professional advice on early menopause, its prevention, symptom correction, and methods of treating infertility during menopause.