Dear MHI reader

In today’s newsletter, we want to help you find your way around by introducing you to the most important terms relating to the menopause. From menopause and premenopause to specific symptoms such as hot flushes and sleep disorders – we explain which terms you need to know in order to feel well informed and prepared.

Menopause (climacteric)
Menopause refers to the natural hormonal change in women at the end of their fertile phase. It is a transitional period that can last several years, usually between the ages of 40 and 65. According to studies, the average duration of the menopause is around 7.4 years. The term ‘menopause’ comes from the German word ‘Wechsel’, which refers to the change from one state to another. A common synonym is ‘climacteric’.

Menopause
The menopause is the time of the last menstruation, after which there is no more ovarian-triggered bleeding for at least twelve months. On average, this occurs at the age of 51. The term comes from the Greek: ‘menos’ (month) and ‘pausis’ (end). The menopause marks the end of the fertile years and the beginning of a new phase of life. The term menopause is often incorrectly used to refer to the entire menopause phase.

Premenopause
This phase often begins around the age of 40 and is characterised by the start of a decline in hormone production, particularly progesterone. Changes in the menstrual cycle such as shorter or longer cycles and heavier or lighter bleeding can occur. Other symptoms include a feeling of tension in the breasts, headaches, water retention and increased irritability. The term is made up of the prefix ‘pre-’ (before) and ‘menopause’.

Perimenopause
The perimenopause comprises the years before and the year after the menopause. During this time, natural hormonal fluctuations occur that can last several years. The menstrual cycle becomes more irregular and months may go by without menstruation. Symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings, sleep disorders, anxiety, tiredness and weight gain are common. The term comes from the Greek ‘peri-’ (around).

Postmenopause
The postmenopause begins one year after the last menstrual period and ends with the onset of senility. The hormonal balance slowly comes to rest, which often leads to an improvement in typical symptoms such as hot flushes. However, new symptoms such as dry mucous membranes, sleep disorders and an increased risk of osteoporosis can occur. The term is made up of the prefix ‘post-’ (after) and ‘menopause’.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Hormone replacement therapy is a treatment to alleviate menopausal symptoms by supplying oestrogen and/or progesterone. Modern preparations often use bioidentical hormones, which chemically resemble the body’s own hormones.

Bioidentical hormones
The term ‘bioidentical’ means ‘biologically identical’. Bioidentical hormones are artificially produced hormones that are used by the body like the body’s own hormones. These hormones are structurally identical to the body’s own hormones and are also referred to as ‘nature-identical’ or ‘body-identical’. They are usually obtained from plant sources such as yams or soya beans and then chemically modified to achieve the exact structure of human hormones. In general, oestrogens such as 17-beta-oestradiol or oestriol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, melatonin and thyroid hormones can be prescribed as bioidentical hormones – in other words, almost all hormones that occur in a healthy body.

Phytoestrogens
Phytoestrogens are plant compounds that have an oestrogen-like effect. They are found in foods such as soya, linseed and red clover and can help to alleviate menopausal symptoms. The term is made up of ‘phyto-’ (plant) and ‘oestrogens’.

Hot flushes
Hot flushes are sudden, intense feelings of warmth, often accompanied by sweating and palpitations. They affect around 75% of women during the menopause and can be very distressing.

Sleep disorders
Sleep problems, often caused by hot flushes at night, are common during the menopause. They can lead to increased tiredness, irritability and concentration problems.

Mood swings
Hormonal changes during the menopause can cause emotional instability. Stress management and a healthy lifestyle can be helpful, sometimes medication is also necessary.

Vaginal dryness (atrophy)
This refers to the thinning and dryness of the vaginal mucosa due to falling oestrogen levels. Symptoms include pain during sexual intercourse, frequent infections and itching.

Osteoporosis
The drop in oestrogen levels during the menopause can lead to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Prevention includes calcium and vitamin D intake as well as regular exercise.

Weight gain
Many women notice an increase in body weight, especially in the abdominal area. This may be due to hormonal changes and a slower metabolism. A balanced diet and regular exercise are important.

Self-care
The menopause is a time when it is particularly important to look after yourself. Measures such as a healthy diet, adequate sleep, regular exercise and stress management techniques can significantly improve wellbeing.

Understanding the different concepts that characterise this phase of life is a first step towards better managing the changes. It is important that you listen to your body and seek medical advice if necessary. There are many ways to improve your quality of life during the menopause, be it through lifestyle changes, alternative therapies or, if necessary, medication support.

If you want to get an overview of the possible symptoms, visit our Meno wiki.

Overview of possible symptoms
In our Wiki Meno you will find an overview of the possible symptoms as well as detailed explanations.

You can try out the symptom checker here
We have created an online menopause symptom checker with 20 simple questions followed by personalised health recommendations based on your symptoms.

Alternatively, you can download our Menopause Symptom Checker. You can use this to document your symptoms and then discuss them with your doctor.