Episode 2 - Phases of Menopause

Embrace the Change - a Menopause Journey

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🌟 New Episode: What is Menopause? 🌟

I am thrilled to invite you to the second episode of my podcast, "Embrace the Change: A Menopause Journey"!

Episode 2: Definition of Menopause

In this episode, we delve deep into the definition of menopause, exploring the various phases and possible symptoms in each stage. Why is it so important to track your cycle and symptoms? Tune in as I discuss what happens in your body, how to learn to read your symptoms, and where to find support.

Key Points:

1. Variation in Experience:
   
   • Length, timing, and symptoms of menopause vary widely.
   • 30% experience no symptoms.
   • 30% experience slight symptoms.
   • 30% experience severe symptoms, impacting daily life.
2. Prevalence:

• Worldwide, 1 billion women in some phase of menopause.

Symptoms by Phase:

Perimenopause:

• Symptoms: hot flashes, insomnia, brain fog.

Postmenopause:

• Symptoms: increased cholesterol, blood sugar, and risk of osteoporosis.
• These are often silent symptoms, not felt directly.

Phases of Menopause:
Premenopause:

• Before perimenopause, usually very regular cycle and therefore fertile. Now some cycles can be anovulatory meaning without ovulation
• Possible irregular cycle – phase can begin around 30
• Length: 2 – 7 years

Perimenopause:

• Hormonal fluctuations of estrogen, progesteron and testosteron (also other hormones)
• Irregular bleeding and various symptoms.
• Beginning around 40
• 4 to 10 years

Menopause:

• Defined as no menstruation for 12 consecutive months.

Postmenopause:

• From menopause until end of life.
• Silent symptoms like cholesterol changes.

Impact on the Body:
Most organs have estrogen receptors.
Three major forms of estrogen:

• Estradiol (reproductive years).
• Estrone (menopause).
• Estriol (pregnancy).

Affects: thyroid, nervous system, immune system, lungs, brain.
Influences: blood pressure, cholesterol, moods, memory, bones, moisture binding, connective tissue.
Conclusion:

• Menopause is a complex and highly individual journey.
• Understanding and discussing these phases is crucial, especially for employed women experiencing symptoms.
• Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions and expert insights on this topic.

Outro:

• Thank you for joining me on Embrace the Change.
• Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with others who might benefit.

Books:

• The Wisdom of Menopause (Revised Edition): Creating Physical and Emotional Health During the Change – Christiane Northrup M.D / ISBN 978-0-553-38672-1
• Woman on Fire – Dr. med. Sheila de Liz / ISBN 978-3-499-00317-2

Arte Documantary: https://www.arte.tv/de/videos/108962-000-A/menopause-frauen-berichten/
Hormon test: https://www.verisana.com/hormone-tests/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6beVqc22hwMVtpWDBx3mrwDPEAAYAyAAEgLB5vD_BwE

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