Menopause itself only lasts for one day because a woman reaches it after a year of having no periods.
What most of us think as menopause is actually perimenopause - the built-up to the menopause - a transitional period in which female hormones fluctuate and periods become irregular.
First, the body starts to produce less progesterone, followed by oestrogen and testosterone.
RECAP: These three female hormones are responsible for preparing a woman’s body for giving birth and caring for a child.They strengthen muscles and bones, keep the brain alert, ensure healthy cholesterol levels, a healthy heart, help with bladder control and keep the skin plumped and elastic.They support the strength of tendons and ligaments, keep the stress hormones in check and ensure that the digestive system functions properly through their effects on insulin production and the actual physical pumping of the intestines.
During perimenopause when these hormonal levels fall women might be experiencing symptoms such as:
Some women don’t experience any symptoms while others may need medical intervention to help.When the ovaries no longer produce any oestrogen and progesterone, the menstrual cycle will stop.Menopause essentially marks the wind-down of a woman's reproductive life.
95% of women will experience menopause at some point between 44 and 56 years of age, with the average age being 50 years old.Genetics and lifestyle can impact how early one will make the transition.The more a woman supports the changes around the body when the hormone levels fall, the easier the psychological transition will be.This is where diet and lifestyle can play a significant role.
