The natural phase of life known as menopause brings many changes, and with those changes come questions. Experiencing menopause or approaching it can leave you wondering what to expect or feeling trepidation about what’s ahead, but understanding menopause will help you navigate this transition with confidence. We’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about menopause to provide you with sufficient clarity.
What Is Menopause?
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It is considered official when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. The transition into menopause, known as perimenopause, can last for several years. The process is often accompanied by various symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Menopause?
Menopause symptoms vary, but some of the most common include hot flashes and night sweats, mood swings and irritability, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, changes in metabolism, and weight gain.
As estrogen levels decline, bone density may decrease, increasing the risk of fractures. Joint stiffness and discomfort are also common complaints among menopausal women. Maintaining an active lifestyle and incorporating weight-bearing exercises can help support bone health. Movement and exercise are key to maintaining overall health during and after menopause, but high-impact workouts may not be ideal for all women. For those who prefer a low-impact way to support their joint comfort and mobility, Juvent’s Micro-Impact Platform® provides gentle frequencies tailored to your body through this FDA-registered class I medical device. You can feel more energized and ready to embrace this phase of life.
Women have reported that using the platform as part of their daily routine, while watching their favorite show from home, helps them stay active with greater ease.
How Long Is Menopause?
Perimenopause, the transition phase leading up to menopause, can last anywhere from four to ten years; it just depends on the woman. Once menopause occurs and a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period, post-menopause begins and lasts for the rest of a woman’s life. Some menopause symptoms, like hot flashes, may gradually subside over time, while others, such as a decrease in bone density, require long-term management.
Can You Get Pregnant After Menopause?
Once a woman has reached menopause and is no longer ovulating, natural pregnancy is no longer possible. In rare cases, medical interventions such as egg donation and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) can result in pregnancy after menopause. During perimenopause, there is still a chance of pregnancy.
Why Does Menopause Cause Weight Gain?
Weight gain is a common concern during menopause due to hormonal changes, a slower metabolism, and shifts in fat distribution. Many women wonder how to lose weight during menopause when it seems to be impossible. It is not easy, but weight management is possible with the right approach:
- Focus on a Balanced Diet: Prioritize whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich vegetables.
- Exercise Regularly: Strength training, cardio, and low-impact activities can help maintain muscle mass and metabolism.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports digestion and energy levels.
- Manage Stress: High cortisol levels can contribute to weight gain, so mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation can be beneficial.
- Prioritize Sleep: Poor sleep can disrupt hunger hormones and lead to weight gain.
Approach Menopause With Confidence
As with anything, knowing the answer to most menopause questions and making lifestyle adjustments are key. Adopting strategies to support overall health gives you the power to navigate this phase while balancing every other facet of life. Menopause is not just manageable; it’s a chance for you to thrive!
FDA Disclosure
In the US, the Juvent device is considered investigational for the treatment of osteoporosis or improvement/maintenance of bone mineral density and our claims have not been reviewed or cleared by the FDA to treat any disease or condition. (2) Calculated over the 20+ year expected life of a Juvent. The JUVENT® Micro-Impact Platform® is Registered as a Class I medical device for exercise and rehabilitation. JUVENT products are covered by the following issued patents, pending patents and their foreign equivalents: 6,843,776 6,884,2277,094211 7,207,954 7,207,955 7,985,191 8,114,036 11/369,611 11/486,538. Juvent, Dynamic Motion Therapy, Micro-Impact Platform, and the symbol are Registered trademarks of Regenerative Technologies Corporation.
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