Women go through menopause when they stop menstruating, which typically happens between ages 45 and 55. As the ovaries curb production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone in the years leading up to menopause and afterwards, women can experience symptoms ranging from vaginal dryness to mood swings, joint pain, memory trouble and insomnia. Menopause symptoms have the biggest impact on quality of life for women in their early-to-mid-50s, a small U.S. study suggests.
Women age 60 or older had better overall quality of life scores and fewer complaints about memory problems and physical symptoms, researchers report in Maturitas, but they still had issues like sexual dysfunction, fatigue and mood swings.
If you are experience any of these symptoms and they are decreasing your quality of life, please start a discuss with your provide at your next appointment.