Menopause & Hormonal Health

Menopause – When a woman stops having periods for at least 12 months due to lower hormone levels, usually occurring in the late 40s or early 50s.
 

Perimenopause – The transition period before menopause when hormone levels fluctuate, causing symptoms like hot flashes and irregular periods.
 

Postmenopause – The phase after menopause, when menopause symptoms may continue but no more periods occur.
 

Estrogen – A key female hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle and drops during menopause, leading to symptoms like hot flashes and bone loss.
 

Progesterone – A hormone that helps regulate periods and supports pregnancy; its levels decrease during menopause.
 

Testosterone (in women) – A hormone important for libido, energy, and muscle strength that also declines with age.
 

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – Medications that replace estrogen and/or progesterone to relieve menopause symptoms.
 

Bioidentical Hormones – Hormones made from natural sources that are structurally identical to human hormones, often used in HRT.
 

Vasomotor Symptoms (VMS) – Another term for hot flashes and night sweats, which are common in menopause.
 

Hot Flashes – Sudden waves of heat, sweating, and flushing, usually felt in the face, neck, and chest.
 

Night Sweats – Hot flashes that happen at night, often disrupting sleep.
 

Low Libido (or Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder - HSDD) – A decrease in sexual desire due to hormonal changes, stress, or other health conditions.
 

Vaginal Atrophy (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause - GSM) – Thinning, dryness, and irritation of the vaginal walls due to low estrogen.
 

Osteoporosis – A condition where bones become weak and brittle, more common after menopause due to lower estrogen levels. Bone density measurement tests (i.e., DEXA scan) can assess bone health.
 

Urogenital Atrophy – Thinning of the vaginal and urinary tissues, causing dryness, discomfort, and increased risk of infections.
 

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – Weakening of pelvic muscles that can lead to incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse.
 

Adrenal Fatigue – A controversial term referring to chronic stress-related hormone imbalances, though not officially recognized as a medical condition.
 

Phytoestrogens – Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen and may help relieve menopause symptoms; found in soy, flaxseeds, and legumes.
 

Menopausal Brain Fog – A temporary decline in memory, focus, and mental clarity during menopause due to hormonal changes.
 

Hysterectomy – A surgical procedure to remove the uterus; can lead to surgical menopause if the ovaries are also removed.