The menopause is when a woman’s ovaries stop functioning. It is defined as a point in time, 12 months from the last menstrual period which typically occurs between the ages of 48 and 52. However peri-menopausal symptoms can develop some years before. To understand what is happening to a woman’s body at this time, it is worth considering the three main sex hormones - oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Oestrogen is made up of three variants which are the governing hormones of the female body responsible for breast development, widening of the hips and the characteristic female fat distribution. It promotes and maintains muscle growth and strength, increases collagen production, decreases tendon and ligament stiffness, promotes joint lubrication and increases bone density. It has a vasculo-protective effect, lowering the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease. Oestrogen also accelerates metabolism and promotes decreased abdominal and visceral fat. Oestrogen is thought to play a significant role in female mental health and has favourable effects on gut function, body temperature regulation and lung function. Progesterone is secreted to support an early pregnancy, but it also has positive effects on skin elasticity and thickness as well as promoting bone strength and normal brain function. It also has anti-inflammatory and immune system support functions. Testosterone is found in small quantities in the female body and promotes energy, exercise tolerance as well as supporting bone and muscle growth. The three hormones work together when the woman is of child-bearing age to aid fertility and create a strong and healthy body to support gestation and pregnancy. However, during the menopause, oestrogen levels decrease and progesterone production stops completely with the last menstrual period. The levels of testosterone naturally decline from a peak in the mid 20s. Menopausal symptoms start to make sense when you consider what is happening to the body. Typically, you will see:
- a decrease in muscle mass/strength and bone density
- a decrease in flexibility leading to reduced mobility
- skin/hair issues / itching
- joint pain/stiffness
- pelvic floor/incontinence issues/urinary infections
- weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
- unable to regulate temperature/hot flushes
- dizziness/vertigo
- brain fog/headaches/memory loss
- poor sleep
- anxiety/depression
In years gone by, the menopause was not openly discussed the way it is today with celebrities and the media bringing a range of issues to light. There is no shortage of information out there, but beware that not all of it is what it seems. If you are experiencing any symptoms don’t suffer in silence. There are many ways of getting help from your GP/health professional as well as from books, websites and other sources of information. You may find the British Menopause Society and Women’s Health Concern good places to start. In my next newsletter, I will talk about the non-pharmaceutical treatments, such as exercise and a healthy lifestyle, that can help if you are going or have gone through the menopause. https://thebms.org.uk/ https://www.womens-health-concern.org/
