Understanding Menopause: A Complete Guide for Women’s Health
Menopause is a natural and inevitable phase in a woman’s life—but for many, it arrives with a mix of questions, concerns, and physical changes that can feel overwhelming. At Cardinal Care Hospital Abuja, we believe that with the right knowledge, care, and support, every woman can navigate menopause with confidence and maintain her quality of life.
What is menopause?
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period. It typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, but the timing can vary. The transition toward menopause—called perimenopause—can start several years earlier as hormone levels begin to fluctuate.
Common Symptoms of Menopause
Menopause affects each woman differently. Some experience only mild symptoms, while others face significant changes that impact daily life. Common symptoms include:
- Hot flashes and night sweats – sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating.
- Irregular periods – changes in cycle length, flow, or skipped months before periods stop entirely.
- Mood changes – increased irritability, anxiety, or sadness due to hormonal shifts.
- Sleep disturbances – difficulty falling or staying asleep.
- Vaginal dryness – leading to discomfort during intimacy.
- Weight changes – often due to a slower metabolism and hormonal changes.
- Bone loss – increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
Health Risks Associated with Menopause
The drop in estrogen levels during menopause can affect more than just reproductive health. Women may face:
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Loss of bone density (osteoporosis)
- Changes in cholesterol levels
- Higher risk of urinary incontinence
This makes regular check-ups and preventive care essential during and after menopause.
How to Manage Menopause Symptoms
While menopause is a natural process, you can take steps to ease symptoms and protect long-term health:
1. Healthy Lifestyle Habits
- Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and lean protein.
- Stay physically active with weight-bearing exercises to support bone health.
- Avoid triggers like caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol if they worsen hot flashes.
2. Medical Support & Therapies
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – may help with severe symptoms, but should be discussed with a doctor to weigh benefits and risks.
- Non-hormonal treatments – such as certain medications and supplements for mood, bone health, and sleep.
- Topical estrogen – for vaginal dryness.
3. Emotional & Mental Health Care
- Stress management through yoga, meditation, or counseling.
- Support groups to share experiences with other women going through the same stage.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical advice if you:
- Have unusually heavy bleeding.
- Experience symptoms that interfere with daily life.
- Notice sudden mood swings, severe depression, or anxiety.
- Develop persistent pain or unusual changes in weight, skin, or hair.
At Cardinal Care Hospital Abuja, our Women’s Health specialists offer personalized menopause care, from symptom relief to preventive screenings for heart and bone health.
Final Thoughts
Menopause is not the end of vitality—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. With the right care, you can protect your health, maintain your energy, and embrace this stage of life with strength and confidence.
Your health is our priority.
Book your Women’s Health consultation today at Cardinal Care Hospital Abuja and let us guide you through every step of your wellness journey.