Everything you need to know about menopause

Menopause is a natural phase of life that every woman goes through, usually between the ages of 45 and 55, and signifies the permanent cessation of menstruation. Although it is often experienced with discomfort or fear, it is important to emphasize that menopause is not a disease, but a normal biological process. According to statistics, more than half of women already in perimenopause feel certain changes, but many of them do not associate symptoms such as hot flashes, insomnia, or mood swings with hormonal changes.

Understandingwhat menopause isand at what agemenopause typically occurs is the first step towards reducing stigma and better acceptance of this period. Menopause can bring certain challenges, but with timely education and support from professionals, every woman can maintain her quality of life and feel in control of her own health.Perimenopause and postmenopause – what to expect and what is the difference?

Menopause does not start suddenly; it is preceded by a period called

perimenopause.This is a transitional phase in which hormones – primarily estrogen and progesterone – decrease in production, and cycles become irregular. Perimenopause can begin as early as a woman's early forties, sometimes even earlier, and can last several years. During this period, women often experience the first symptoms: hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, "brain fog," reduced concentration, mood swings, decreased libido, or changes in the cycle. These areperimenopause symptomsthe reason many women choose to seek advice from agynecologistor endocrinologist.Menopause is officially defined as the moment when a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months. After this period, we refer to

postmenopause.In postmenopause, symptoms like hot flashes and sweating often diminish over time, but the risk of long-term health issues increases, some of which include osteoporosis, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and various other metabolic changes.The difference between perimenopause and postmenopause is not only in symptoms but also in the approach to health monitoring. In perimenopause, the focus is on alleviating discomfort and regulating cycles, while in postmenopause, regular monitoring of bone, heart, and reproductive health becomes crucial. Therefore, every woman should know which phase she is in and timely visit a gynecological examination.

Gynecological exam without discomfort: When to start and why not to postpone it?

Menopause symptoms and how to cope with them

Gynecological exam without discomfort: When to start and why not to postpone it?

Menopause brings a range of changes that every woman experiences in her own way, but there are symptoms that are among the most common.

Hot flashesand night sweats are probably the most well-known. They are sudden waves of heat that disrupt daily life and sleep. Additionally, there areinsomnia, chronicfatigue, and a tendency to gain weight, which can further affect quality of life. That’s why the termmenopause symptomsis often searched for, as many women seek confirmation that they are not alone in their experiences.In addition to physical, menopause also bringsemotional changes.Hormonal fluctuations can cause irritability, anxiety, or even depressive episodes. Many women describe a feeling of "loss of control" over their own mood, which can complicate family and work relationships. Recognizing these changes as a normal part of the process is the first step towards successfully alleviating them.

A particularly sensitive area issexual health.The drop in estrogen often leads to

vaginal dryness,which can cause discomfort andpainful relations.Additionally, decreasedlibidooften occurs, which can lead to concern and uncertainty in intimate relationships. It is important to emphasize that medicine today offers a range of solutions – from local hormone therapy to lubricants and new treatment methods – so these symptoms should not be accepted as "inevitable."One of the key challenges of menopause is not just physical, but also social. The topic of menopause is often surrounded bystigma and silence,which makes women feel lonely. Open conversations with professionals, trust with partners, and sharing experiences with other women can significantly ease this transition. Menopause is not the end of femininity but a natural phase that is easier to navigate with support and timely information.Alleviating menopausal discomfortAlthough menopause is a natural process, it does not mean that women must endure its symptoms.

Modern medicine offers a range of solutionsthat can significantly improve quality of life and restore the sense of balance.The most well-known treatment form is

hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

It replaces hormones that the body produces less of and can effectively alleviatehot flashes, insomnia, mood changes, and vaginal dryness.It is recommended for women who have pronounced discomfort, but the decision for HRT is always made individually, along with a detailed assessment of health status and family risks (e.g., cardiovascular diseases or cancers). It is important to emphasize that with careful monitoring by professionals, the benefits often outweigh potential risks, which is why many women rediscover a quality and fulfilling life.

For those for whom HRT is not an option, there are alsonon-hormonal therapies.This includes certain medications that help with hot flashes, drugs for improving sleep, as well as plant-based dietary supplements aimed at symptomatic treatment.Local therapiessuch as creams and vaginal tablets based on estrogen are particularly effective for alleviating

dryness and painful relations,with minimal systemic effects on the body.The key isan individual approach.There is no universal solution as every woman experiences menopause differently, and what works for one may be ineffective for another. Therefore, it is important to seek expert advice from a gynecologist who will tailor the therapy to personal needs, health history, and lifestyle.Gynecological approach in perimenopause and postmenopauseEntering perimenopause and postmenopause does not mean the need for regular care of gynecological health ceases – quite the opposite, at that time

gynecological exams become crucial.Due to the cessation of regular bleeding, women often neglect gynecological exams, but various risks do not disappear in menopause!Among the tests that

must not be skipped

arethe PAP testto monitor changes in cervical cells,

gynecological ultrasoundto monitor the uterus and ovaries, andmammographyfor the early detection of breast cancer. Additionally, increasing importance is given todensitometry,a test that measures bone density and detects signs of osteoporosis in time.The differences betweenperimenopause and postmenopauseare also important for planning monitoring. During perimenopause, the focus is on controlling menstrual irregularities and educating about upcoming changes, while in postmenopause, monitoring is more directed towards long-term risks such as bone health, overall gynecological health, cardiovascular system, and the prevention of malignant diseases.Lifestyle and self-help in menopauseAlthough medicine offers various therapeutic options, the way of life and attitude towards changes play perhaps the most important role in how a woman will experience this phase of life. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management are often neglected but are extremely effective measures that can alleviate menopause symptoms and preserve health in the long term.

Nutritionin menopauseshould be balanced and rich in calcium, vitamin D, and proteins to prevent bone mass loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, nuts, and seeds) help regulate energy and hormones. At the same time, reducing sugar, alcohol, and highly processed foods is recommended as they worsen hot flashes and mood fluctuations.

Exercise in menopause

brings multiple benefits: aerobic activities such as walking or swimming help maintain cardiovascular health, while strength exercises prevent muscle mass loss and contribute to preserving bone mass. Additionally, regular physical activity has been proven to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and promote the secretion of happiness hormones.

Equally important issleep,the lack of which intensifies fatigue, irritability, and difficulties in concentration. A seemingly harmless symptom like night sweats often begins a vicious cycle where disturbed rest leads to reduced cognitive ability, which affects emotional control, relationships, and this connection can even lead to depression. Routine bedtime at the same hour, avoiding screens before bed, and light evening activities (e.g., stretching or meditation) can significantly improve the quality of rest.

Personalized meal plans

Stress management should not be neglected either,as stress worsens hot flashes and insomnia symptoms. Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, guided breathing exercises, or simply regular walks in fresh air can make a big difference.

These lifestyle changes are not just a help in alleviating symptoms – they reduce the long-term risk of heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis, making menopause a period in which a woman can build a foundation for a higher quality and healthier life in the years to come.Menopause control at Priska Med ClinicIn conclusion, we can state that menopause is not just a gynecological issue, but a complex life phase that requires a comprehensive approach. At Priska Med Clinic, we understand that menopause, like many other complex health conditions, requires more than a one-time exam or a single therapy. That is why we have developed an approach based on

collaboration of multidisciplinary teams of experts. More than 25 medical specialties

, among which are gynecology,

endocrinology

, psychiatry, nutrition and many others, allow us to approach each patient comprehensively and individually.Such a breadth of knowledge and experience ensures that we do not focus only on one symptom, but we consider the overall health condition and life context of women in menopause. Our goal is not just to alleviate discomfort, but also to preserve long-term health, quality of life, and a sense of security.If you are in perimenopause, menopause, or postmenopause and want expert, empathetic, and comprehensive support, contact our team at:📞 021 44 33 44📧 poliklinika@priska-med.com

👉 directly via our

contact form

everything-you-need-to-know-about-menopause021 44 33 44
📧 poliklinika@priska-med.com
👉 izravno putem naše kontakt forme