For Every Woman
What is Menopause?
Menopause is defined by not having a period for one full year. In Canada, the average age of menopause is 51. Menopause usually occurs between 45 – 55 years old but each person will have their own unique experience. If your periods stop outside of this age window, please see your health care provider. It is expected that in Canada, 43% of women will be in menopause in 2038 based on current trends. It is important to know that women will spend up to 40% of their lives post menopausal. You are absolutely not alone!
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause the time leading up to your final period. This is also referred to as the menopause transition. This often occurs in stages that you may or may not notice. The stages are referred to as early and late transition:
- Early Transition: The transition starts in an early phase, which varies in length in each person, but can often start around 35 years of age.
- Late transition: 1-3 years prior to the final menstrual period is referred to as late transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is menopause?
Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. It marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years when the ovaries stop releasing eggs and producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
The most common symptoms of menopause include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Irregular periods
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes (irritability, anxiety, or depression)
- Vaginal dryness
- Decreased libido
- Memory issues or difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Thinning hair or changes in skin texture
How long do menopause symptoms last?
The duration of menopause symptoms varies. Hot flashes and other symptoms last on average 7 years, with some women experiencing symptoms for a shorter period, while others may continue to have them longer. It is important to remember that each woman is unique and so is her menopause journey.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, usually occurring in a woman’s late 40s to early 50s. During perimenopause, estrogen levels fluctuate, and women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, along with the onset of menopause-related symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings.
What is Menopausal Hormone Therapy (formerly hormone replacement therapy/HRT)?
MHT is a treatment that involves the use of hormones to relieve menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and sleep problems. MHT can be taken in several forms, including oral pills, patches, gels, or vaginal creams.
Is MHT (Medical Hormone Therapy) safe?
The safety of MHT has been studied extensively and depends on several factors, including a woman’s age, health history, and personal risk factors (such as heart disease, breast cancer, or blood clotting disorders). The benefits outweigh the risks in many women and MHT is considered the first line therapy for hot flashes and night sweats in low and appropriate risk women (The Menopause Society). MHT carries risks such as an increased risk of breast cancer, stroke, and blood clots, which should be discussed with a healthcare provider as each persons risk will differ based on their family and personal history. MHT should not be prescribed to prevent cardiovascular disease or dementia at this time. Your risk will be dependent on your unique risk factors, and these should be discussed with your health care team prior to starting any treatments.
What are the alternatives to MHT?
For women who cannot take MHT or prefer not to, there are alternative treatments for managing menopause symptoms, including:
- Non-hormonal medications
- Lifestyle changes (regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management techniques)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for mood and sleep issues
The most important first step in menopause is getting evidence-based information from a provider you trust.
You can also visit: menopause.org and www.menopauseandu.ca