Hysterectomy

The development of symptoms varies in each woman. Some women experience a period of peri-menopause where they may exhibit menopausal symptoms as much ten years prior to the actual end of ovarian function.

Symptoms include: hot flashes, vaginal dryness, sleep problems, fatigue due to sleep deprivation, and skin changes. Some women after a long period of loss of ovarian function, start having problems with control of their urine. Pain with intercourse may also result due to the shrinkage of the vaginal opening and loss of lubrication. During this time, women who still have their uterus may experience menstrual abnormalities with frequent bleeding until their periods finally stop. Hot flashes, which are commonly associated with menopause, do not occur in every woman. Menopausal and peri-menopausal symptoms can usually be controlled with hormone therapy.

Unseen changes which occur after menopause include bone loss (osteoporosis) and an increased risk of heart disease. Hormone therapy has been proven to decrease the risk of these health concerns.

See also Hormone Replacement Therapy