Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Though it’s often talked about with concern or hesitation, menopause is not an illness — it’s a normal phase of life that every woman experiences, usually between 45 and 55 years of age.

According to Dr. Mansi Gupta, Sr. Consultant in Obstetrics, Gynecology & Laparoscopic Surgery, understanding menopause and its changes empowers women to handle this transition with awareness, confidence, and care.

Understanding Menopause

Medically, menopause is defined as the stage when a woman has not had her menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, signaling that the ovaries have stopped releasing eggs.

It happens because the body gradually produces less estrogen and progesterone — the hormones that regulate menstruation and fertility.

The phase leading up to menopause is called perimenopause, which can begin several years earlier. This is when most symptoms start to appear due to hormonal fluctuations.

Phases Of The Menopause Transition

Perimenopause (The Transition Phase)

• Begins 3–8 years before menopause.
• Periods may become irregular, and symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep problems may appear.

Menopause (The Final Menstrual Period)

• Officially reached when there has been no period for 12 months.
• Estrogen levels remain low, and periods permanently stop.

Postmenopause (After Menopause)

• Begins after the 12-month mark.
• Many symptoms ease, but health concerns like bone loss and heart disease risk may increase.

Common Signs And Symptoms Of Menopause

The experience of menopause varies from woman to woman. Some notice few symptoms, while others may experience significant changes.

Here are some common signs:

1. Irregular Periods

Periods may become lighter, heavier, or occur less frequently. Eventually, they stop altogether.

2. Hot Flashes And Night Sweats

Sudden feelings of heat, flushing, and sweating — sometimes followed by chills — are common due to hormonal fluctuations.

3. Sleep Problems

Difficulty falling or staying asleep is frequent, often due to night sweats or anxiety.

4. Mood Swings

Estrogen impacts brain chemicals like serotonin, which influence mood. Hence, irritability, sadness, or mood fluctuations are common.

5. Vaginal Dryness And Discomfort

Reduced estrogen causes thinning and dryness of vaginal tissues, leading to discomfort during intercourse.

6. Weight Gain

Metabolism slows down with age and hormone changes, often leading to fat accumulation around the abdomen.

7. Hair And Skin Changes

Hair thinning, dryness, and reduced skin elasticity can occur due to hormonal decline.

8. Decreased Libido

Reduced hormone levels and physical changes can temporarily lower sexual desire.

9. Urinary Changes

Weakened pelvic muscles can lead to urinary frequency or mild leakage when sneezing or laughing.

10. Memory And Focus Issues

Many women report “brain fog” or mild forgetfulness during perimenopause, usually temporary.

Health Concerns After Menopause

While menopause itself is natural, lower estrogen levels can increase the risk of certain long-term health issues, including:

• Osteoporosis (Bone thinning)
• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• Urinary tract infections

Early screening, preventive care, and lifestyle management can reduce these risks significantly.

How To Manage Menopause Symptoms Naturally

Menopause isn’t about “treatment” but about management and adaptation. Here’s how you can make this stage more comfortable:

1. Maintain A Balanced Diet

• Include calcium-rich foods (milk, yogurt, leafy greens) and vitamin D for bone health.
• Eat fiber, lean proteins, and whole grains to maintain energy and manage weight.
• Reduce caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol to control hot flashes.

2. Stay Physically Active

• Regular exercise improves mood, bone strength, and heart health.
• Activities like yoga, walking, or swimming are excellent for joint and mental wellness.

3. Prioritize Sleep

• Stick to a consistent bedtime routine.
• Avoid heavy meals or caffeine before bed.
• Keep the bedroom cool and quiet to manage night sweats.

4. Manage Stress

• Practice mindfulness, meditation, or breathing exercises.
• Social support and hobbies can also help maintain emotional balance.

5. Hydration And Skincare

Drink plenty of water and use mild moisturizers for skin and vaginal comfort.

Medical Management Options

For women with more intense symptoms, professional treatments can provide relief:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Balances declining estrogen and progesterone levels.
• Non-hormonal therapies: Medications for hot flashes or mood regulation.
• Topical estrogen creams or lubricants: Help with vaginal dryness.
• Bone health supplements: Calcium and vitamin D are often prescribed.

Dr. Mansi Gupta advises that treatment must always be personalized, considering medical history, symptom severity, and overall health.

When To See A Doctor

You should consult your gynecologist if you experience:

• Heavy or unpredictable bleeding
• Persistent hot flashes or insomnia
• Mood swings or depression
• Vaginal pain or recurrent infections

Timely guidance ensures better comfort and long-term health during menopause and beyond.

FAQs On Understanding Menopause

Q1. What is the average age of menopause in women?

Most women reach menopause between 45 and 55 years, though timing can vary.

Q2. Can menopause happen early?

Yes. Premature menopause can occur before age 40 due to genetics, surgery, or certain medical conditions.

Q3. How long do menopause symptoms last?

Symptoms can last 4–8 years during perimenopause and gradually reduce afterward.

Q4. Can women get pregnant during perimenopause?

Yes, irregular ovulation may still occur. Contraception is advised until 12 months after your last period.

Q5. Are natural supplements effective?

Some herbal and dietary supplements help mild symptoms, but they should be used under medical supervision.

Guided Menopause Care With Compassion

Menopause isn’t an ending — it’s a beginning of a new, wiser, and more balanced phase of life.

With awareness and expert support, women can thrive confidently through this transition.

Dr. Mansi Gupta, Sr. Consultant OBG & Laparoscopic Surgeon, offers comprehensive menopausal care — from lifestyle guidance to hormonal management — ensuring comfort, balance, and long-term wellness.

Consult Dr. Mansi Gupta Today

Step into your next phase of womanhood with confidence, knowledge, and expert care designed for you.