Menopause Flashcards
what is the menopause
end of a women’s periods
need to have no periods for >1 year to be in the menopause
what is the average menopause age
51 years
what is a late menopause
> 54 years
what is an early menopause
<45 years
what effects on the body does oestrogen have
secondary sexual characteristics hair distribution, body shape and fat distribution effect on collagen bone growth proliferated endometrium
how do you diagnose menopause
vasomotor symptoms
pattern of periods
blood tests
why does a single raised FSH and LH level not confirm menopause
because it can be raised by lots of things
- prior to ovulation
- stopping contraceptive pill
- breastfeeding or certain medications
or as its released in a pulsatile fashion it could have just been measured when it was naturally high
what are some physical symptoms of the menopause
hot flushes night whats palpitations insomnia joint aches headaches
characteristics of a hot flush in menopause
last 3-5 mins
average 2 years
10% last for 15 years
what psychological symptoms are there of the menopause
mood swings irritability anxiety difficulty concentrating forgetfulness
what are sexual symptoms of the menopause
vaginal dryness
libido
what are some later symptoms of menopause
frequency recurrent UTIs dysuria incontinence dry hair and skin atrophy of breast and genitals
what is perimenopausal dysfunctional uterine bleeding
irregular periods
inter-menstrual bleeding
post menopausal bleeding
what conservative management can be done for menopausal symptoms
diet weight loss exercise lifestyle caffeine CBT mindfulness
how do you treat menorrhagia (heavy period)
mefanamic acid (NSAID which decreases blood supply to the womb)
tranexamic acid (stops breaking down clots?)
progesterone
intra-uterine system
endometrial ablation (scar lining of the womb)
hysterectomy
