Postmenopause occurs after menopause and is the last stage of biological transformation that concludes with a complete ending of a woman’s monthly cycle.
While perhaps not as challenging as menopause, postmenopause can still cause many symptoms that affect a woman’s day-to-day life. In this blog post, we’ll explore the signs and symptoms of postmenopause as well as healthy habits and wellness therapies that can help you navigate this challenging phase of life.
What is Postmenopausal?
Postmenopause is the period of time after menopause that is marked by the complete end of a woman’s menstrual cycle for 12 months.
Postmenopausal Symptoms
Like perimenopause and menopause, there are many symptoms associated with postmenopause, including:
- Fluctuating weight
- Vaginal discharge and dryness
- Hot flashes
- Trouble sleeping
- Infertility
- No menstrual cycle
When Does Postmenopausal Start?
Postmenopause begins when a woman no longer has a monthly period and hasn’t had one in the last 12 months.
How Long Does Postmenopausal Last?
Once a woman completes menopause, she will be considered postmenopausal for the rest of her life.
Postmenopausal Bleeding & Spotting
According to Medical News Today, 4-11% of women experience bleeding after menopause. Postmenopausal bleeding and spotting can happen for various reasons, including:
- Problems with the ovaries
- Problems with a part of the reproductive system
- Endometrial or vaginal atrophy (the most common cause)
- Endometrial hyperplasia
- Cancer (ovarian, vaginal, colorectal, or bladder)
- Polyps
- Fibroids
- Infection (cervix, lining of the uterus, bladder)
- Thyroid disorder
- Clotting issues
- Hormonal medications
Since postmenopause marks the cessation of a woman’s menstrual cycle, bleeding of any type should not occur, and you should contact your medical doctor if you notice any.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits
It’s essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle to possibly reduce postmenopausal symptoms and increase overall well-being. Consider the following diet, exercise and wellness modalities.
Nutrition
A balanced and healthy diet is essential to ensure well-being in every stage of life, including postmenopause. For bone health, get adequate calcium and vitamin D, either through supplements or foods such as milk, soy, cheese and tofu.
Regular Exercise
Regular physical exercise such as aerobic exercise and strength training is important for overall bone health to maintain muscle mass and reduce the risk of diseases, such as osteoporosis.
Science-Backed Therapies
Our science-backed therapies are available at 225+ locations nationwide and may help manage symptoms, decrease pain and support your overall health during postmenopause.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves exposing the entire body to sub-zero temperatures for up to 3 minutes, which triggers a response that redirects blood and increases oxygen levels, which may help relieve pain, promote healing and improve your energy levels and sleep. Specifically for postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome, Cryotherapy has been associated with decreased body fat mass, particularly abdominal fat. It may also promote a reduction in glucose, insulin resistance and chronic inflammation.
Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas heat the body through light waves and by increasing the temperature of the ambient air inside the sauna, which has a variety of benefits, like promoting perspiration and the flushing of toxins from the system, pain relief, and improved heart health and immunity. Studies have also found they can help alleviate postmenopausal symptoms.
Compression
Compression therapy involves applying controlled, dynamic pressure to extremities like the arms, legs and hips to help improve blood flow, boost recovery and help healing. It’s also been shown to play a positive role in the prevention of osteoporosis, which is a very important concern in postmenopausal women.
IV Drip Therapy
One way to ensure you’re meeting your unique needs at every stage in life is through IV Drip Therapy, which allows you to customize a blend of nutrients, amino acids and vitamins specific to your postmenopausal needs, like vitamin D and magnesium, which play a vital role in bone health and hormone regulation. Because this therapy involves administering the drip directly into your bloodstream, your body may be able to absorb it more rapidly and completely.
By understanding the symptoms and signs of postmenopause, you can create a wellness strategy to help manage the physical and emotional side effects.
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