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Menopause
From about the age of 40 onwards the ovaries gradually cease to function. The supply of eggs decreases, and ovulation does not occur any more in every cycle. At the same time production of the sex hormones estrogen and progestin decreases continuously.
The practical consequence of these changes is that periods become irregular. This is a sign of the age-related decline in fertility.
The last menstrual period (menopause) occurs usually when a woman reaches her early fifties. This marks the end of the years of sexual maturity. Once she has had her very last period a woman can no longer become pregnant.
Many women around the age of 40 underestimate the possibility of becoming pregnant. But until she has definitely had her last period, some form of contraception must still be used if the woman and her partner do not want her to become pregnant.
The decrease in fertility is not the only feature of menopause. The hormonal changes can also lead to a number of other menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes, sweating, sleep disturbances and palpitations, and can contribute to the development of certain diseases, such as osteoporosis.
Women going through the menopause can speak to their doctor about their symptoms, and discuss available treatment options if required, such as hormone replacement therapy. A healthy lifestyle can also do a lot to preserve your physical and mental wellbeing during menopause.
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