Unpleasant symptoms may appear, signaling the transition to menopause. Fortunately, there are solutions!
The first signs
Women in Greece enter the menopausal phase on average between 48 and 52 years of age. The first sign is irregular menstrual cycles, a symptom for which a gynecologist or endocrinologist should be consulted. They will recommend the appropriate tests to confirm whether it is the climacteric phase, which can last 2 to 5 years until the woman definitively reaches menopause.
The 7 most common problems
Approximately 70–80% of women report experiencing some bothersome symptoms during menopause, although the intensity and frequency of these symptoms vary from woman to woman.
Hot flashes: These are most common during the first two years of menopause. They are sudden sensations of heat in various parts of the body, especially the chest and face, often followed by a feeling of chill, and usually last a few minutes or seconds. Some women may experience a faster heartbeat during a hot flash. What can help: Over time, hot flashes typically decrease on their own. Additionally, taking certain dietary supplements can provide significant relief
Decreased libido: Hormonal changes often cause vaginal dryness and can negatively affect sexual desire.
What can help: Specialized products that maintain vaginal moisture can support a healthy sexual life.
Mood swings: A woman may become more irritable or sensitive, experience low mood, or even show symptoms of depression (especially if she has a history of depression). What can help: Be supportive and encourage her to engage in activities she enjoys. Exercise can improve mood and overall well-being. If symptoms persist, consulting a specialist may be necessary, as some cases require psychological support or medication.
Insomnia: Sleep disturbances that existed previously may worsen, but they can also appear for the first time during menopause.
What can help: If sleep problems persist, you should discuss them with the appropriate specialist to receive proper guidance, such as going to bed at the same time every day or avoiding daytime naps. In some cases, medications that aid sleep, such as melatonin pills or hypnotics, may also be prescribed.
Osteoporosis: During menopause, the decrease in estrogen can accelerate calcium loss from the bones. What can help: Even before menopause, a bone density measurement should be performed, and if needed, dietary supplements or appropriate medical treatment should be provided. A diet rich in dairy products and foods high in calcium and vitamin D also helps prevent and manage osteoporosis. Additionally, hormone replacement therapy can significantly help delay symptoms if recommended by a doctor and depending on your medical history.
Cardiovascular diseases: The drop in estrogen levels increases the risk of heart disease during menopause.
What can help: Good cooperation with a physician is essential in order to manage risk factors that negatively affect heart health, such as cholesterol and high blood pressure. Frequent consumption of fatty fish also has a protective effect, and hormone therapy may be helpful in this case as well.
Weight gain: During menopause, changes in metabolism may occur, which can lead to weight gain—particularly an increase in waist circumference—along with the associated health risks.
What can help: A balanced diet and avoiding fattening habits are important. Exercise (in forms appropriate for one’s age) is a good way to maintain an ideal weight.