Menopause

Menopause

Menopause means last menstrual period, it is the period in a woman’s life after ovarian function ceases. The average age of menopause is 51 years. The attendant oestrogen deficiency can manifest in short term and long term effects for women. These include:

Night sweats and hot flushes are short term symptoms of menopause

These are the most common symptoms of the menopause. When these occur at night they can cause sleep disturbance and if severe can also impair quality of life.

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are long term symptoms of menopause

Oestrogen loss after the menopause causes bone loss. Osteoporosis is a bone disease in which bone cells can’t make new bone as fast as the old bone degenerates.

For patients with osteoporosis, the bones are fragile and brittle and at risk of fracture. If severe, even minor impact can cause fracture.

Osteopenia means low bone mass. It can lead to osteoporosis if ignored.

Symptoms of osteoporosis

Bones weakened by osteoporosis may cause:

  • Back pain

  • Stooping or slouching posture

  • Shrinking stature over time

  • Unexpected bone fractures

It is estimated that one -third of women over 50, often postmenopausal women have an osteoporotic fracture, compared with one in five men.

Preventing bone loss and fractures

Preventing osteoporosis and osteopenia may not be possible for some patients. Some risk factors are uncontrollable. However, reducing your risk starts with living a healthy lifestyle. If you’ve built enough bone mass in your youth, you may be able to avoid osteoporosis as you age. Ensure that you get enough calcium and Vitamin D.

Bone density or dexa scan

This is a quick, non-invasive test of bone health. It will tell us whether your bone density has reached unhealthy levels.

Treatments for Osteopenia and Osteoporosis

An individualized treatment plan can be recommended. Lifestyle changes and/or medication may be recommended. Bisphosphonates are commonly used.

Hormone replacement therapy may be another option for the treatment and/or prevention of osteoporosis if you are considered suitable. It is also the treatment of choice for the relief of hot flushes and sweats.

You are also invited to establish care with Dr Annabelle Pollard. Please click here to make an appointment or call us.