Menopausal Symptoms

Although urogynecologic problems can affect women of any age, post-menopausal women and women who have given birth are more likely to experience these problems. Pregnancy and childbirth can damage the tissues supporting the pelvic organs, although bladder support natually weakens as a woman ages. All of these factors can lead to weakened supportive tissue and damage to the nerves that control bladder function.

Menopause is a natural process in a woman’s life marking the end of her reproductive years. This process causes the ovaries to produce fewer hormones that cause menstrual periods, which leads to irregular and eventually the end of menstruation. Menopause is reached once you have not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. The hormonal transition of menopause is associated with physical and psychosocial changes that can start as early as your 30s or 40s, and last into your 50. You may begin to experience signs and symptoms of menopause well before your periods stop permanently. Menopause is not the end of your youth, or of your sexuality. Urinary incontinence can become worse during menopause. Other signs and symptoms of menopause include vaginal dryness, discomfort with intercourse and urinary tract infections. It is important to see your doctor during both perimenopause and postmenopause for preventive health care as well as care of medical conditions that may occur with aging. Some problems attributed to aging are unavoidable, however, others can benefit from lifestyle changes and medical treatments.

There are a wide variety of symptoms that can be associated with these hormonal changes.

Some possible symptoms include:

 Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

 Mood Changes

 Difficulty Sleeping

 Changes in Sexuality

 Vaginal Dryness

 Heart Palpitations

 Decreasing Fertility

 Loss of Bone

 Changes in Cholesterol Levels

 Changes in Appearance



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