Many women may have a strong resistance to the idea of menopause. However, menopause is a natural part of life that should not be viewed through the lens of illness. With proper management, every woman can maintain a healthy lifestyle and live gracefully during this phase.
Menopause is not easily identifiable by sight, and there is no specific day when it begins. After about 45 years old, if a woman goes an entire year without menstruation-while excluding conditions like pregnancy, or hyperthyroidism has entered menopause. Dr. TANG Hiu Tung Helen, a specialist in obstetrics and
gynaecology, points out that the duration of menopause varies from person to person, typically lasting anywhere from a few years to over a decade. The process can be divided into three stages:
Also known as the “transition to menopause”, this stage usually begins in a woman's 40s and lasts about 4 to 8 years. During this time, ovarian function gradually declines, leading to fluctuating estrogen levels. Many women may experience menopausal symptoms, but menstruation may still occur, and pregnancy remains possible.
After 12 consecutive months without a period, a woman officially enters menopause, with an average onset age of 51. At this stage, menopausal symptoms become more pronounced, including physical signs like hot flashes, palpitations, night sweats, vaginal dryness, skin dryness, osteoporosis, decreased libido, and weight gain. Psychologically, women may experience mood swings, anxiety, depression,
restlessness, and insomnia. If symptoms do not improve on their own and affect quality of life, it is advisable to consult a doctor. This is especially important if there is abnormal bleeding during menopause, as a medical evaluation is necessary to rule out conditions like endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, or cervical cancer.
After menopause, symptoms such as hot flashes and sweating may improve. However, due to lower estrogen levels, the risk of health issues such as osteoporosis and heart disease increases.
Dr. Tang shares that a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and regular exercise are essential for alleviating menopausal discomfort. Menopause does not equate to ageing; a woman's charm does not diminish with age. On this International Women's Day, Chiron Medical encourages all women to embrace this new stage of life with a positive attitude and face health challenges together.
Updated: 2025-03
Please note that all medical health articles featured on our website have been reviewed by Chiron Medical doctors. The articles are for general information only and are not medical opinions nor should the contents be used to replace the need for personal consultation with a qualified health professional on the reader's medical condition.
