October is Menopause Month, and it’s time to let go of the shame, stigma, and secrecy surrounding menopause. It can be a confusing phase of life for women, and navigating medical terms, treatment options, and symptoms can feel overwhelming. Menopause is a natural transition, and through support and open discussion, you can learn to thrive in your midlife. This week on Fox17, Dr. Bitner breaks down common menopause terms, helping women understand the different phases of ovarian function and empowering them to take charge of their midlife.

Fact #1

Knowing what certain medical terms mean can empower you to speak up. Understanding your phase of ovarian function can help you to better understand your risk for a number of health conditions, including heart disease and stroke, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, and mood changes. It can also help guide questions to ask your doctor for improved symptom management, and empower you to seek resources to better understand your body.

• The reproductive phase is when your periods are regular and predictable. As you get older, symptoms before your period become more common, such as headaches, mood changes, or night sweats. 
• Perimenopause happens after 35 for most women and is when there are noticeable changes in your menstrual cycles, with periods arriving more than 7 days earlier or later than usual. Associated menopause symptoms become more frequent. 
• Late perimenopause occurs when cycles change by more than 60 days, such as skipping a whole month. Cycles may return to normal temporarily and then become irregular again. Associated menopause symptoms continue to increase in frequency, such as hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, mood changes, and sleep issues. 
• Menopause is when you do not have a period for 12 months. Some women enter early menopause after chemotherapy or have their ovaries surgically removed. If you had a hysterectomy, an ablation, or IUD, menopause can be detected by persistent symptoms and blood work changes. 

Fact #2

The years leading up to menopause can be confusing. Perimenopause is accompanied by unpredictable symptoms, leaving many women frustrated with navigating their body changes. Without understanding your phase of ovarian function and access to solutions, women can suffer from mental health issues, develop a poor self-image, and lack motivation. There are solutions, and it all starts with knowledge. 

Fact #3

Everyone’s menopause journey looks different.Studies have shown women of color tend to get symptoms earlier and worse, and women of Asian descent tend to have mood changes and fewer hot flashes. Some women may enter menopause early due to cancer treatment, whereas others will naturally enter it. Understanding your ovarian function and talking to your doctor about your individual risks can help you have a better understanding of what to expect and how to minimize symptoms. 

Fact #4

The whole body is connected. The menopause journey is not isolated to menopause issues; rather, our ovarian function can indicate other areas of our health we should check up on, such as cholesterol, blood sugar, and muscle mass. As we age, it is important that we take proactive steps to foster a healthy future; have regular doctor visits, get early detection testing, preventive care and practice healthy habits. During phase transitions, you may not have obvious symptoms other than a changing period, but know there are still changes going on underneath. 

Patient Story:

Jane, 38, wondered if her symptoms were caused by perimenopause. Her periods were closer together and a little bit heavier, she had symptoms of breast tenderness, night sweats, and irritability. Jane saw changes in her body and food cravings, and she began feeling frustrated. 

Jane told her doctor she went 60 days without a period and explained her symptoms. Her doctor was able to diagnose Jane with late perimenopause. Jane’s doctor outlined her options and additional steps to help manage her symptoms. 

Jane began drinking more water and got a Mirena IUD and an estrogen patch to help during the week of her cycle, where she experienced low estrogen-related symptoms. Her doctor recommended that she get tests done, which indicated Jane’s A1C blood sugar was high, so she got a CGM to monitor her blood sugar and make adjustments to her eating habits. Within 3 months, Jane had no more periods, and when she experienced symptoms, she had the resources and support to find relief. 

Takeaway Tip:

To celebrate World Menopause Day, find out your phase of ovarian function, ask your doctor what you can do to manage your symptoms, and begin taking steps to age well. Knowledge is the power women need to tackle the changes that come with this phase of life.⠀ 

Watch the full segment here.