Menopause
Dr Danie Schneider
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Somerset West

Menopause

Menopause is the time in your life when you naturally stop menstruating. All women eventually enter menopause, although some do sooner rather than later. The average age of onset is 51, but it can occur at any time between 40 and 60 years.

Did you know…?

  • Hormone therapy can help relieve some of the symptoms that affect women at menopause?
  • It is, however important to consider both the benefits and the risks for your individual situation: there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
  • In general, hormone therapy use should be limited to the treatment of menopausal symptoms at the lowest effective dose for the shortest amount of time. Continued use should be re-evaluated annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is perimenopause?

The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause.

Beginning in your 30s and 40s the amount of oestrogen produced by your ovaries begins to fluctuate. A common sign of perimenopause is a change in your menstrual cycle. Abnormal bleeding should be reported as this could be a sign of a problem.

How do I stay healthy during and after menopause?

A healthy lifestyle will help you make the best of the years during and after menopause.

Your diet should include enough calcium and vitamin D to help maintain strong bones. Regular exercise, too, slows down bone loss and it also improves your overall health. Annual well-women check-ups will help to detect problems early. During the consultation, Dr Schneider will advise you about any changes you might need to make following the examination, which should include screening for cancer, osteoporosis and heart disease and a conversation about sexual health if necessary.