We believe that the average age at menopause is 48. However, this can vary by a few years depending on a person’s health and genetics. Many factors can lead to early menopause.
Knowing your family history and personal health can help you plan for midlife. If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms earlier, speak to your doctor.
Find out why the average age of perimenopause and menopause varies. Know when you should talk to your doctor.
Average Age of Perimenopause
The average age range for perimenopause is between 40 to 44 years. During perimenopause, the body gradually stops producing as much estrogen. This causes symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
Average Age of Menopause
The average age range for menopause is between 45 and 55 years old. During menopause, hormone production stops completely and various conditions may present. Some common symptoms include changes in menstrual cycles, hot flashes, night sweats, an increase in anxiety and irritability, decreased libido, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances, and joint pain.
Treatment Options for Perimenopause and Menopause
There can be several options for the treatment of perimenopause and menopause. It would be helpful to know what you can do about it. It’s important to discuss any concerns with your doctor before starting any particular treatment to ensure it will work best for you.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Some women may opt to treat the physical and mental symptoms that accompany this. Hormone replacement therapy is one option that can be considered to help reduce or eliminate these symptoms.
This therapy involves the replacement of estrogen. It can be given as:
- pill
- topical cream
- patch
- vaginal ring
Each option brings about different benefits and risks. Hence, it’s important to discuss those with your doctor before deciding to go for hormone replacement therapy.
Non-Hormonal Medications
Non-hormonal medications are available too. They assist with the symptoms of menopause that can be experienced many years before menstruation stops. These medications may include:
- vitamin/mineral supplements
- antidepressants
- anti-anxiety medications
Low-dose oral contraceptives may be used. These treatments don’t address the root cause of menopausal symptoms. However, they can help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.
But because every woman’s experiences with menopause can differ, these treatments should be discussed with a doctor. This is important to ensure a safe, effective approach to managing hormonal changes.
Lifestyle Modifications
Lifestyle modifications can help women manage their symptoms too. This helps them transition into the various life stages that accompany the menopausal transition. Some simple lifestyle modifications could be beneficial for menopausal women. It includes:
- exercising regularly
- eating a healthy diet
- reducing stress
Regular exercise can help with physical and mental health, and eating a healthy diet may counteract any hormone imbalance. Additionally, stress reduction is achievable by engaging in different activities. Women can go for yoga, meditation, and journaling.
Know that smoking can be harmful to one’s health and increase the body’s sensitivity to hormones. Limiting both caffeine and alcohol can promote better sleep and keep hormone levels balanced.
Address the Symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause
It is natural in aging that many changes take place in the body. One concern for most women is reaching the menopausal stage.
The average age of perimenopause and menopause varies greatly among women. There are treatment options available to help manage uncomfortable symptoms. You may opt for synthetic hormones and lifestyle changes.
Talk to your healthcare provider. This helps you determine the best treatment option for you and to put your mind at ease.
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