Revelations that Nicola Bulley struggled with drinking after an early menopause have put the impact of the condition back into the spotlight:
What is menopause?
Menopause occurs when you have a persistent lack of periods, characterized by the point at which a woman has not had one for 12 consecutive months.
It usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with 51 being the UK average.
This is a normal part of aging and occurs because the ovaries stop producing eggs. As a result, the levels of the hormones produced by the ovaries drop.
Revelations that Nicola Bulley had a drinking problem after an early menopause put the effects of the condition in a new light (file photo)
Possible side effects of HRT?
HRT replaces the hormones that a woman’s body stops making as a result of menopause, such as estrogen and progestin. Side effects may include gas, tender or swollen breasts, nausea, cramps, headaches, indigestion, bleeding, depression, and acne.
The NHS advises people with side effects to keep it off for three months if possible, as they can stop as the body adapts to the drug.
Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
For many women struggling with menopausal symptoms, the answer is yes.
HRT has been considered life-changing by women, who say it has given them new energy and led an active life.
In addition to HRT, cognitive behavioral therapy can be offered to women with mental health symptoms. There are also moisturizers and lubricants to ease discomfort.
How much does the drug take?
Almost two million women in England use HRT, which is available as a patch, gel or tablet. HRT use has increased by 35 percent in the past year as women seek prescriptions to relieve symptoms.
What is early menopause?
About 1 in 20 women will experience early menopause if they stop menstruating before the age of 45.
Symptoms can include irregular menstrual cycles for several years, spotting between periods and changes in monthly bleeding.
Early menopause can increase your risk of osteoporosis (weak bones), heart disease, depression, dementia and Parkinson’s disease. Sufferers also tend to experience the symptoms of menopause worse.
Early menopause is different from premature menopause, which is the term when a woman’s menstrual periods stop before the age of 40. It affects only about 1 percent of women.
symptoms?
Almost nine out of ten women have symptoms. Mental health symptoms include mood swings, such as anxiety and low self-esteem, and problems with memory or concentration.
Hot flashes, insomnia, palpitations, headaches, muscle and joint pain are some of the physical symptoms. So is weight gain and reduced sex drive.
Symptoms usually begin before menopause officially begins, as periods become irregular. This is perimenopause.
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Crystal Leahy is an author and health journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a background in health and wellness, Crystal has a passion for helping people live their best lives through healthy habits and lifestyles.
