Menopause is a natural biological progression affecting women between the ages of 45 and 55.

In the United States, the average age to experience menopause is 51, although technically menopause does not begin until one year after a woman’s last menstrual period.

During the course of menopause, a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs, less estrogen and progesterone are produced, and menstruation slows and eventually stops.

For many women, menopause is an avoided topic of conversation. Physical changes during this transition caused by a woman’s changing hormones can leave women sad and emotional.

“Menopause isn’t an illness. However, some women experience severe symptoms as their body changes, and these should be treated," MTMC Hospitalist Dr. Sally Bullock said.

Hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia are some of the most commonly experienced symptoms of menopause. Other symptoms can include decreased interest in sex, headaches, mood swings, vaginal dryness and infection, and joint pain.

“Hormone treatment can be used in cases of severe symptoms,” adds Dr. Bullock. “You should discuss your options with your doctor and find a treatment plan that is best for you.”

Your doctor can perform blood and urine tests to measure changes in hormone levels that could suggest menopause is close, occurring or has already occurred.

Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life and cannot be prevented. However, in order to avoid some long term complications that can occur during the process, such as osteoporosis and heart disease, women should monitor blood pressure and cholesterol, avoid smoking, exercise regularly, eat a low-fat diet, and take calcium and vitamin D.

Menopause is not the end of life for women. In fact, many feel a sense of liberation following the process.

On Tuesday, May 17 from 7:30-8:30 a.m., Dr. Bullock, along with Dr. Mary Moss, MTMC obstetric and gynecologic physician and Dr. Gena Kluwe, MTMC Hospitalist, will host a panel discussion on menopause and pelvic health as part of MTMC’s Her Health Women’s Health Series.  The session is at MTMC and breakfast will be provided.  To RSVP, call 615-396-5557.