What Is Menopause?

Menopause is a single moment in time—the 12-month anniversary of your last period. After that, you are considered post-menopausal.

The average age of menopause in the U.S. is 51, though it can occur anytime between 45 and 55. Every day, about 6,000 women in the U.S. reach menopause—over 1.3 million per year.

What Changes After Menopause?

• Hormone levels stabilize at lower levels.
• Some symptoms may improve (such as brain fog and mood swings).
• Menstrual cycles officially stop.
• Health risks like heart disease and osteoporosis increase.

For some women, symptom relief comes with menopause. Others may continue experiencing hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and fatigue.

Potential Health Risks After Menopause

1. Heart Disease
Estrogen supports heart health by keeping blood vessels flexible and regulating cholesterol. When levels drop after menopause, the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke increases.

2. Osteoporosis
Estrogen helps maintain bone density. Post-menopausal women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass within the first five to seven years, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

3. Cognitive Decline & Dementia
Nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients are women, and post-menopausal estrogen depletion is a likely contributor. Research suggests that lower estrogen levels may impact memory, focus, and brain function.

How to Know If You’re in Perimenopause or Menopause

Unlike pregnancy, there’s no single test that confirms perimenopause. Doctors may check hormone levels, but fluctuating FSH and estrogen levels can make diagnosis tricky.

Key signs you’re in perimenopause:

• You’re in your 40s or early 50s.
• Your periods are still occurring (but irregularly).
• You’re experiencing common perimenopausal symptoms.

Menopause is confirmed when:

• 12 consecutive months have passed with no period.

Treatment & Symptom Management

No matter where you are in the perimenopause-to-menopause journey, relief is possible.

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Supplementing estrogen (and progesterone, if needed) can alleviate moderate to severe symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and bone loss.

2. Birth Control for Perimenopause

For younger perimenopausal women, low-dose birth control can help regulate cycles and minimize symptoms.

3. Natural & Lifestyle Remedies

• Diet & Nutrition: Anti-inflammatory foods, calcium, and vitamin D support bone and heart health.
• Exercise: Strength training helps prevent bone loss and weight gain.
• Mindfulness & Stress Management: Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can reduce anxiety.

How We Can Help

If you’re experiencing menopause-related symptoms and need expert guidance, our trained specialists can create a personalized care plan to help you feel your best.

Ready for personalized support? Book a Teltra Virtual Visit today!