If you are menstruating, there comes a time when your hormones, namely estrogen and progesterone, will decrease. This usually happens after 40, but it can happen earlier or later, depending on the woman's health.
This period is called menopause and it is not a disease, but a normal part of life. But, there are some signs or question marks about menopause that are still misunderstood, and doctors say that from today you shouldn't believe them anymore.
Myth: Only severe menopausal symptoms require treatment
When your ovaries produce less estrogen, you may experience a variety of symptoms such as night sweats, trouble sleeping, and vaginal dryness. These symptoms can be mild for some women, but completely debilitating for others. Despite the problems, many women have various menopausal symptoms and do not treat them. Doctors say that you should rely on drug therapy to ease the condition of women during menopause.
Myth: Hormone replacement therapy is dangerous
Many doctors say the most common misconceptions about menopause are related to hormone replacement therapy, a type of medication that replaces estrogen and progesterone. In fact, this therapy can be a safe and effective way to improve the quality of life during menopause.
Myth: Hormones are the only treatment option
In addition to hormone replacement therapy, women should know that there are other treatment options available in menopause. Antidepressants or medications that affect estrogen receptors can be introduced here, which improves hot flashes, fights insomnia, blood pressure problems, etc.
Myth: "Natural" hormone therapy is superior
According to experts, there is a belief that hormones are safer or better than other therapies because they are seen as a more natural approach during menopause. But, this is not true! Hormone therapy is not 100% natural or herbal, as it is mixed with other medications. In fact, hormone therapy may be more dangerous than traditional therapy. That's because the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't oversee the purity of hormones, which is exactly what's in them.
Myth: Sex drive disappears once you enter menopause
Unfortunately, there is little truth to this part! Declining levels of estrogen and testosterone can affect libido. Lower estrogen levels, in particular, can cause vaginal dryness, which leads to uncomfortable or painful sex. This is a common symptom of menopause. There are solutions for this part as well, from lubrication to complementary hormones, a diet rich in nutritional value and that supports this phase of women's life, etc.
Myth: You can't get pregnant after you enter perimenopause
The transition to menopause is gradual. In the early years, estrogen levels begin to fluctuate and your menstrual cycle is no longer regular. During this time, it is normal to occasionally have shorter or longer periods, or to miss periods for several months. This irregularity does not mean that you cannot get pregnant again, as there is still ovulation. Therefore, if you do not want another pregnancy, contraception should be a priority during this period.
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Source: Well+ Good
