Causes of menopause
Menopause results from the cessation of ovarian function, leading to a decline in the production of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. For 90% of women, this natural process generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, although the exact age may vary from one woman to another.
Perimenopause
Peri-menopause refers to the period during which the body makes the natural transition to menopause. This phase is characterized by gradual hormonal changes. Menstrual cycles become irregular, and symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disorders and breast changes may occur.
Risk factors
Although menopause generally occurs around the age of 50, many factors can influence age, including :
- Smoking and alcohol
- Obesity
- Heredity
- Administration of certain drugs (contraceptive pill) or treatments (chemotherapy, etc.)
- Strenuous physical activity
It's important to note that every woman is unique, and that the onset of menopause can vary considerably from one woman to another.
Symptoms of menopause
Hormonal fluctuations can lead to a number of typical symptoms, including:
- Hot flushes
- Sleep disorders
- Mood disorders (irritability, nervousness, depression)
- Vaginal dryness
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Weight increase
- Joint and muscle pain
- Palpitations and dizziness
- Memory problems
- Breast changes
While some women live through this phase with little effect, others suffer from more pronounced symptoms. In either case, it's essential to understand our bodies, learn to live with the changes and attenuate the symptoms in order to cope with this period of change with serenity.
Consequences of menopause
Osteoporosis
With the decline in hormones, there is a significantly higher risk of osteoporosis after the menopause. Osteoporosis is characterized by a loss of bone mass. It's a silent disease, revealed mainly when a fracture occurs. Regular bone mineral density (BMD) tests are strongly recommended to monitor this pathology. To find out more about osteoporosis or make a diagnosis:
Increased risk of breast cancer
With menopause, women face an increased risk of developing breast cancer. However, regular screening coupled with a healthy lifestyle can help reduce this risk. To find out more about breast cancer or organize a screening visit :
Cardiovascular risk factors
Cardiovascular disease is the world's leading cause of death in women, causing 35% of deaths annually. Postmenopausal women have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Several factors contribute to this increased risk, including hormonal changes, alterations in lipid metabolism and reduced physical activity. Symptoms of cardiovascular disease can be mistaken for fatigue or anxiety. To reduce the risks, it is therefore important to monitor cholesterol levels regularly, to have heart tests or examinations if necessary, and to adopt preventive measures.
Reduced cognitive function
Menopause can lead to certain cognitive deficits, such as memory problems, slower abstract reasoning and reduced learning capacity.
Treating menopause
Appropriate treatment can significantly improve menopause-related inconveniences.
Non-hormonal menopause treatment
Women have many options for managing menopause symptoms without using hormones. These include
- Phytoestrogens, naturally present in a variety of plants and vegetables, have a molecular structure similar to feminine sex hormones. They can be found in plant-based supplements (soy, clover, sage, etc.).
- Acupuncture
- Homeopathy
- Hypnosis
- Reflexology
- Yoga, meditation, breathing and relaxation exercises
These non-medicinal approaches can be highly beneficial, particularly for mild to moderate symptoms.
Hormone replacement therapy for menopause
In more difficult cases of menopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be considered under medical supervision. Treatment combines estrogens and progestins, with the primary purpose of rebalancing the levels of hormones whose natural production has decreased or stopped. Hormones must be administered on a personalized level, according to the patient's menopausal symptoms and wishes.
HRT can be recommended to prevent osteoporosis. On the contrary, it is not indicated for patients with a history of breast cancer or coronary heart disease.
Whatever the treatment, regular physical activity, the adoption of a healthy lifestyle and a healthy diet are essential.
Care at Hôpital de La Tour
At Hôpital de La Tour, we offer a personalized menopause care service provided by an experienced multidisciplinary team. Our specialists are here to offer recommendations on how to adopt a healthy lifestyle and, if necessary, to suggest treatments to overcome the effects of this physiological hormonal decline.
FAQ on menopause
At what age does menopause generally occur?
Menopause generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, but this can vary from one woman to another. The first symptoms may appear 5 to 10 years before the actual menopause: this is known as peri-menopause.
What are the most common symptoms of menopause?
The most common symptoms include hot flushes, sleep disorders or fatigue, mood changes and vaginal dryness.
What are the health risks associated with menopause?
Menopause increases the risk of osteoporosis and breast cancer. Hormonal changes can also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.
What treatments are available for menopause?
Treatments include non-hormonal approaches such as food supplements, acupuncture and lifestyle changes, as well as hormonal options such as menopausal hormone therapy ("HRT").
How can I reduce the risks associated with menopause?
You can reduce the risks by adopting a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, having a balanced diet and avoiding risk behaviours such as smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol.
Does menopause affect women's mental health?
The hormonal changes associated with menopause can affect a woman's mental health, leading to symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, anxiety and sometimes even depression. This period may therefore require special attention.
Does menopause affect sex life?
Menopause can cause vaginal dryness and reduced libido for some women due to lower hormone levels. However, a fulfilling sex life during menopause is possible with some adjustments