menopause transition

menopause transition

, menopausal transitionThe time in most women's lives just before their monthly periods cease and when they begin to experience irregular menstrual cycles, abnormal vaginal bleeding, hot flashes, disturbed sleep, atrophy of vaginal tissues, and decreased vaginal lubrication.

Patient care

Fluctuating hormone levels are responsible for these changes. Educating women about the transition and treating individual symptoms are typically advocated. Menopausal hormone replacement therapy is controversial: its risks and benefits should be thoroughly examined and discussed. Alternatives include dietary modification, exercise, and nonhormone drug therapy. Patients should be advised to report any abnormal vaginal bleeding.

 See: perimenopause