“...Medical menopause should include specialist input from both medical, psychological teams, a plan regarding managing the menopause should be in place, even before the surgery/ cancer treatment happens, which is something that doesn't happen right now every time. Early diagnosis, not dismissing symptoms, quick referral to healthcare is really key to avoiding any delay, issues, or a drop in the quality of life. HRT is recommended for early menopause until 50 years of age. Thereafter, it's again the individual’s choice to stay on it or come off. And the biggest thing is we still need to understand more for the non-Caucasian population. There's plenty of research needed for Southeast Asian, African, and other ethnic women and other socioeconomic backgrounds. There's plenty more to know about their symptomatology, transition and which forms of treatments these women respond better to.” - Dr Vikram Talaulikar MBBS MD FRCOG PhD MICOG (in an interview with Miyara Health)
[Menopause specialist @ Menopause Clinic, London; Specialist in Reproductive Medicine at University College London Hospital; Hon. Associate Professor in Women’s Health at University College London]
This article is intended to create much-needed awareness regarding medically induced menopause so that women undergoing said treatments can have relevant discussions with their medical team and make informed decisions.
What is Medical Menopause?
Menopause is a natural biological process of hormonal changes, particularly a decline in estrogen, that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. This phase can span many years and most women will undergo this transition gradually. However, for some women, medical interventions or underlying health conditions can cause premature and abrupt menopause to occur. This is termed as medical menopause.
Depending on individual cases, the menopausal phase can be temporary, that is, the ovaries start producing hormones normally when the situation is resolved. In other cases, permanent menopause is induced earlier than it would naturally occur in that person. In either case, it can be a debilitating experience, but you can manage it more readily by being prepared for it.
Why Does It Occur?
Medical menopause is the cessation of estrogen and progesterone production before the natural age of menopause (typically around age 50). The ovaries are the major production sites of these hormones. Therefore, any procedure/health condition that affects the ovaries has the potential to cause medical menopause. Some reasons are:
Surgical removal of both ovaries (oophorectomy): This is usually done to treat/ prevent cancer (more particularly in those with genetic risk of hormone-sensitive breast or ovarian cancer), endometriosis, or other reproductive health conditions.
Chemotherapy or radiation therapy: This can cause damage to the ovaries thereby hampering hormone production and leading to premature menopause.
Arterial embolization: In rare cases, when the blood supply is cut off to arrest fibroid growth, blood vessels that supply the ovaries can be damaged during the procedure, leading to premature menopause.
Use of certain medications: Some medications, such as those used for breast cancer treatment, can also suppress estrogen production.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms?
They are similar to those experienced during natural menopause, as the symptoms are mostly brought on by changing hormonal levels and declining estrogen.
They include:
The main difference in medical (vs natural) menopause is that, very often, the transition is abrupt and there is no time for the body to adjust. Therefore, the symptoms can be more acute and severe than they normally would occur.
Does it need to be Treated?
Just like natural menopause, this cannot be reversed, but it can be managed with a host of options.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, these strategies are likely to be effective:
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Replacing oestrogen and progesterone, especially in women who are well below the natural menopausal age can be beneficial. For premenopausal women who have had a hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy, the benefits of estrogen therapy far outweigh risks and treatment can be life-preserving, and in some cases life-saving. The recommendation is to continue treatment until the age of natural menopause.
Non-hormonal medications: These may include over-the-counter medications for hot flashes, lubricants for vaginal dryness or prescription medications for mood or sleep disorders.
Over-the-counter supplements: Phytoestrogen/isoflavone supplements are known to be effective. However, their effectiveness may vary on a case-to-case basis. Though some people seem to find symptomatic relief with certain herbal remedies and complementary medicines, convincing scientific evidence of their safety and effectiveness is lacking.
Alternative therapies: Some women may find relief through practices such as acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and similar treatments.
Of these, the most effective and widely researched strategy, especially for hot flashes and sleep disorders, is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This involves altering mental perspective and distraction techniques for symptom management.
Do Lifestyle Changes Help?
Yes, absolutely! Regardless of your choice of treatment, lifestyle changes can be helpful to a large extent. Some of these include:
Consuming adequate nutrients: Calcium, vitamin D and omega-3 fats are of particular importance. But overall a diet balanced in whole grains, animal or plant proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, probiotics and prebiotics is needed. Regular consumption of soybeans and soy products, as well as a plant-based diet, can help manage the symptoms.
Being physically active: The most beneficial way is to practice progressive muscle strengthening, which will also help maintain bone and muscle health. Exercise can positively impact psychological symptoms, hot flashes, sleep and sexual health. Moreover, regular participation in sporting activities, walking, gardening, etc. will help too.
Creating a sound sleep routine: Sleep issues arise for many. However, a good sleep routine, which includes dimming the lights, a quiet environment, and a comfortable ambient temperature, can help you feel well-rested.
Adopting stress-relieving techniques: Meditation and deep breathing are techniques of choice in this respect. But activities that make you feel happy and relaxed, such as painting, singing or crocheting, work too.
Keeping a watchful eye: Since estrogen functions like fuel to a woman’s body and plays multifaceted protective roles, the body can be vulnerable to health risks unless supplemented adequately. While dosage adjustments will be made to best suit individual needs, it may take time and some trials to find the optimum combo or dose. Regardless, it is best to be in tune with your body cues, and record and report any abnormalities. Further, it is essential to do periodic health checks as necessary because you are the best judge of your (physical) well-being.
What Emotional Challenges Can Be Expected?
Medical menopause can significantly affect your physical and emotional well-being. But coping with challenges is easier when you are adequately prepared to face them. Some of the emotional changes include:
Loss of confidence, usually associated with early aging
Relationship challenges, especially with your significant other
Feelings of loneliness or depression linked to infertility
How To Prepare To Handle Medical Menopause?
Discuss your treatment plan ahead and the possibility of medical menopause with your healthcare provider: This is a crucial step as it prepares you mentally for the road ahead. Take counseling services if offered or ask for one if you feel overwhelmed.
Know Your Symptoms Thoroughly: Educate yourself about the ins and outs of medical menopause and keep a journal to track your symptoms in detail. Identifying the problem is the first step to devising a solution.
Seek Medical Advice When Necessary: Be regular with your check ups and doctor appointments. Also, research all treatment options available to you. Make a note of your questions beforehand and be sure to discuss any health concerns you may have.
Start With Smaller Changes: Rome wasn’t built in a day. If you have a lot of lifestyle changes to make, start with the smaller, easier ones such as walking 1000 additional steps or eating 1 fruit a day. Even small wins can help boost your confidence.
Rely On Your Support System: Be open with your loved ones about your feelings and experiences and make them a part of your journey to prepare for this phase of life. Connecting with online communities or support groups can help provide a forum to share experiences with others going through similar situations.
Engage in Self-Care: Make time for yourself and what gives you happiness. Along with lifestyle changes and a good hair and skin routine, it is important to nourish your inner self too ( Try some of Miyara's programs)
Medical menopause can significantly affect a woman's life, especially due to its sudden and impactful nature. While it may be challenging to adjust and adapt, if you are mentally prepared to face it, effective management strategies are available to maintain a good quality of life.
Disclaimer: Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed belong solely to the content provider. Miyara Women does not undertake any financial/reputational/legal/misrepresentational impact or other obligations/ liabilities that may arise from the content.
Become a Miyara member and gain access to all programs, click here
To check out our women's health products, click here.
About the author
Kanchana is a Lifestyle Consultant & Weight Management Specialist. After a Masters degree in Molecular Biology from the USA, she ventured into the field of Nutrition and is certified in General Nutrition, Sports Nutrition, and Weight Management. Her own successful weight loss journey inspired her to help people of all age groups and health conditions via Calorie Culture, which she founded in 2012. She is also an avid dancer, mini marathoner, and sports enthusiast. She strongly advocates sustainable lifestyle changes as a means to long-term health benefits and optimal weight.
Comments