Some periods of our lives begin and end unexpectedly, without any telltale red mark on a specific calendar day to let us know what’s coming or going. Often, for women, menopause is one of those times. Both the beginning and the end of menopause varies, and can be challenging to predict.
Menopause and perimenopause mark the cessation of your monthly menstrual cycle, and your ability to become pregnant. Menopause typically affects women in their late 40s and early 50s, and the impacts of this time of transition can last for multiple years.
Board-certified OBGYN Dr. Mary Grace Bridges and the team at Women’s Health Partners of the Permian Basin provide menopause support to new and existing patients. With locations in Odessa and Midland, Texas, we’re here to help with menopause symptoms and more.
In this blog, Dr. Bridges shares more information on the duration of menopause: when does this time of your life start, and how do you know when it’s over? Here’s what you need to know about making it through menopause.
Menopause doesn’t occur on a strict calendar, and everyone’s experience with menopause is a little different, just as everyone’s body is unique. Let’s review some of the key facts about women’s reproductive life experiences and milestones.
You already have all your eggs at birth. After puberty, your menstrual cycle begins, releasing an egg every month or so for potential fertilization. As you enter your 30s and 40s, the number and quality of your eggs begins to decline, and hormonal shifts begin to take place in your body, including decreased estrogen production.
Perimenopause, a transitional state you enter before fully reaching menopause, often occurs in your 40s. Most women spend about 8-10 years in perimenopause. Often, your final menstrual periods are spaced out and irregular, so it may take some time for a full 12 months to pass between your periods and your perimenopause to be officially over.
Menopause officially comes when it’s been one year since your last menstrual period. Once you reach menopause, symptoms subside and your body finds a new balance now that your reproductive cycle has ended.
Menopause poses challenges for many women. Your body, going through significant changes, experiences destabilizing and stressful symptoms. Your symptoms may include:
Menopause can even negatively affect your libido and sex drive. Hormonal changes, and changes in your self-image related to your fertility, can pose problems for your personal life and self-esteem.
You’re not alone as you progress through perimenopause and menopause. Reach out to Dr. Bridges at Women’s Health Partners of the Permian Basin for treatment and support. With the right care, you can make it through the experience of menopause with balance, poise, and security. Dr. Bridges cares about your comfort, confidence, and quality of life.
For menopause support and information, schedule your appointment at Women’s Health Partners of the Permian Basin online or over the phone today.
