Graphic by Sunny Wei ’23.
By Catelyn Fitzgerald ’23
Science & Environment Editor
Menopause is a transition that begins one year after a person’s last period and usually lasts seven years, according to the National Institute of Aging. This transition marks the end of a person’s menstrual cycles and their ability to become pregnant. In the United States, the average age at which people begin menopause is 51, but this can vary depending on the person, the Mayo Clinic reported. The duration of the menopausal transition also varies from person to person, according to the NIA.
Perimenopause occurs leading up to the start of menopause, usually beginning when a person is in their 40s, according to Planned Parenthood. Smokers often start perimenopause two years before non-smokers. During perimenopause, people may experience changes in their period, such as skipped periods or changes in what a typical period looks like for that person. Pregnancy is still possible during perimenopause, according to Planned Parenthood.
The symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, difficulty sleeping, mood changes and vaginal dryness, the NIA explains. The NIA describes hot flashes as “a sudden feeling of heat in the upper part or all of your body” accompanied by sweating and a flushed appearance. Hot flashes usually last between 30 seconds and 10 minutes and occur at varying intervals depending on the person, the NIA said. Vaginal dryness and decreased sensitivity can cause discomfort during sex as well as a range of emotional effects, according to Planned Parenthood. These effects may be remedied with the use of lube, increased sexual activity and hormone medications. While pregnancy is no longer possible after the start of menopause, people can still contract sexually transmitted diseases, the NIA reported.
Postmenopause is the stage that follows menopause, according to the NIA. People experiencing postmenopause are at an increased risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, making it important to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.