Find out what to expect when you’re 55 or older
You are considered post-menopausal when you’ve gone two years without a period. It’s the stage that follows from perimenopause and includes all the years beyond menopause. Many women don’t know what to expect post-menopause, though. We’ve put this article together to help you better understand what to expect.
The phase is also when hormones will start to level off, and your body will learn to manage lower levels of hormones. Hurrah!
This is also an optimal time to reassess their health for many women.
Here, KeyForHer has answered three of your most common questions about post-menopause.
Will I continue to get hot flashes?
It is possible. Women can experience hot flashes several years before and after menopause, while some women never experience hot flashes at all.
Hot flashes are characterised by intense heat, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. The cause of hot flashes is linked with decreased oestrogen levels in the body due to menopause.
What changes might occur?
In post-menopause, the good news for women is that tiredness will fade, and your energy will begin to return. Many women say that afterwards, they feel as good – if not better! – than they did before menopause. That’s is because there are no longer hormonal ups and downs.
Are there any other health considerations?
Yes, women in the post-menopause stage are at risk for health conditions including:
- Heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease. When your estrogen levels decline, your risk of cardiovascular disease increases, heart disease is the leading cause of death in women and men. So, it's essential to get regular exercise, eat a healthy diet, and maintain an average weight. Ask your doctor for advice on how to reduce your cholesterol or blood pressure if it's too high.
- Osteoporosis. This condition causes bones to become brittle and weak, leading to an increased risk of fractures. During the first few years after menopause, you may lose bone density rapidly, increasing your risk.
Remember that women who smoke, drink excess caffeine and alcohol, and consume too much salt and/or sugar are at higher risk for these conditions.
We hope this helps you on what to expect post-menopause, and if you want to know more about menopausal health be sure to read our other articles.
