What really happens to your body during menopause | Body Stuff with Dr. Jen Gunter
A Comprehensive Guide to Menopause
This video is a comprehensive guide to menopause, explaining what happens in our bodies during this time. The speaker compares menopause to the opposite of puberty and explains that it is a continuous process that starts years before the actual diagnosis.
What is Menopause?
- Menopause is technically diagnosed one year after the last menstruation, but most people use the term to refer to the period of time when our menstrual cycle is changing, which lasts for several years.
- The transition into menopause begins around age 45 when ovulation becomes irregular due to a decrease in healthy eggs and fluctuating estrogen levels.
Symptoms of Menopause
- Reduced estrogen levels can lead to medical concerns such as osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, and vaginal dryness.
- Common symptoms include hot flashes, difficulty sleeping, irritability, depression or reduced sexual desire.
Positive Aspects of Menopause
- After menopause, menstruation or cramps are no longer an issue and there's no need to worry about unwanted pregnancy if your partner produces sperm.
- Women can continue making vital contributions to society after menopause. It's not the end; your value has nothing to do with your ovaries.
Coping with Menopausal Symptoms
- If you're experiencing symptoms like insomnia or hot flashes that affect your quality of life, talk to your doctor.
- Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, reducing stress, getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and engaging in moderate physical activity can help alleviate symptoms.
- Avoid relying on unproven therapies like magnetic therapy or compounded hormones that pose risks.