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Despite representing half of the world’s population, women face disproportionate challenges in accessing adequate healthcare. This disparity is evident throughout a woman’s lifespan, from the onset of menstruation to the transition through menopause. These crucial stages in a woman’s life are often shrouded in silence with limited medical skills, a lack of data and societal stigma hindering their ability to navigate these transitions effectively.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Surbhi Singh, Cosmetic Gynaecologist, Beau Monde clinic, GK 1 explained the health issues that a woman faces from her menarche to menopause.

Health Issues From Menarche To Menopause

A woman’s health journey begins with menstruation, a biological milestone marking the entry into womanhood. Although natural, menstruation is often accompanied by discomfort, pain and cultural stigma. Severe cramps, heavy flow and hormonal fluctuations can lead to debilitating physical and emotional symptoms such as headaches, mood swings, acne and even exacerbation of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.

As women transition into their reproductive years, new challenges arise including family planning, pregnancy and childbirth. Disparities in access to quality prenatal care contribute to alarmingly high maternal mortality rates in many parts of the world. Women also face conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fibroids which can cause debilitating pain and emotional distress.

As women age, they encounter yet another major transition i.e. menopause. In India, the average onset of menopause occurs around the age of 46.6, and approximately 14.66% of women experience menopause at or around this age. Menopause brings its own set of challenges with hormonal fluctuations causing hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood swings and an increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.

Several factors can affect the onset of menopause including the age of menarche (first menstrual period), the number of pregnancies, lifestyle choices like smoking and alcohol use, socioeconomic status and overall health. While natural menopause typically occurs after 12 consecutive months without menstruation, some women may experience early menopause due to medical interventions such as chemotherapy or the surgical removal of the ovaries.

One of the most common treatments for menopause-related symptoms is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT supplements the body with estrogen, either alone or in combination with progesterone, and helps to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Studies also suggest that early use of HRT can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, as well as offer potential cardiovascular benefits. For women experiencing severe menopausal symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life, HRT can offer substantial improvements in well-being and daily functioning.

There are two main types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) i.e. estrogen therapy and combination therapy. Estrogen therapy involves taking estrogen alone, which is typically prescribed in a low dose and can be administered through various forms such as pills, patches, gels, vaginal rings, creams, or sprays. This option is usually recommended for women who have had a hysterectomy. On the other hand, combination therapy, also known as estrogen-progesterone therapy (EPT), includes both estrogen and progesterone (or a progestin) and is necessary for women who still have a uterus, as progestins help reduce the risk of uterine cancer. Combination therapy is available in pills, patches, and sometimes in IUDs.

Talking about the treatment, the doctor said one of the most common treatments for menopause-related symptoms is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT supplements the body with estrogen either alone or in combination with progesterone and helps to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. Studies also suggest that early use of HRT can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures as well as offer potential cardiovascular benefits.

There are two main types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) i.e. estrogen therapy and combination therapy. Estrogen therapy involves taking estrogen alone which is typically prescribed in a low dose and can be administered through various forms such as pills, patches, gels, vaginal rings, creams or sprays. This option is usually recommended for women who have had a hysterectomy. On the other hand, combination therapy also known as estrogen-progesterone therapy (EPT) includes both estrogen and progesterone (or a progestin) and is necessary for women who still have a uterus as progestins help reduce the risk of uterine cancer. Combination therapy is available in pills, patches and sometimes in IUDs.

Further, she said navigating menopause requires a holistic approach. Women can manage symptoms by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, dressing in layers to stay cool, using lubricants for vaginal dryness and considering alternative therapies like selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) or low-dose antidepressants for mood-related symptoms.

In conclusion, knowledge and awareness from authentic sources along with self-prioritisation are vital for women as they navigate the various stages of their health journey. Empowering women to take charge of their health will not only improve their quality of life but also foster a culture where women’s health is given the attention and respect it deserves.

ALSO READ: How Menopause Affects Eyes? Expert Lists Tips To Manage Eye Health

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