Demystifying Menopause

What Everyone Should Know

Every day, approximately 6,000 women in the United States reach menopause. That’s more than two million every year. Yet, for something so common and universal, many people don’t really know much about it.  

 

“Everyone probably knows someone going through menopause,” said Dr. Aimee Van Straaten, OB-GYN at Aspirus Health. “Understanding it more not only helps you support your mom, grandma, or friend, but it also prepares each woman for her own journey.”  

 

Medically, menopause is defined as one year without a menstrual period. That marks the point when the ovaries decrease their production of estrogen and progesterone, and ovulation has ceased. For most women, this transition happens between ages 45 and 55, with the average being around 51. 

 

Hot flashes are the most well-known symptom, affecting nearly 80 percent of women. Other common symptoms include:  

• Mood changes and irritability  
• Memory or attention issues 
• Joint pain 
• Hair loss 
• Vaginal dryness 
• Painful intercourse 
• Sleep disturbances 

These changes can disrupt daily life. However, women no longer have to just quietly endure them. “There have never been more options to manage menopause symptoms than there are today,” Dr. Van Straaten emphasized. “Honestly, it’s a great time to be an older woman.” 

 

Providers at Aspirus Health are continuing to advance their knowledge in this area. Many are completing additional education focused on menopause and midlife women’s health, helping ensure that patients receive the best, most up-to-date care available. 

 

The gold standard remains hormone therapy, which can relieve hot flashes and night sweats in about 85 percent of women who use it. Estrogen is the primary hormone, with progesterone added for women who still have a uterus. 

 

“There is still some fear around hormone therapy because of negative publicity from 15 to 20 years ago,” explained Dr. Van Straaten. “But women shouldn’t let that hold them back. Today, there are many safe and well-studied treatment options.” 

 

Advances like transdermal estradiol, absorbed through the skin, allow for more stable hormone levels with less risks than older oral medications. Non-hormonal options include fezolinetant, which targets the brain’s temperature-control center, and SSRIs, which help reduce hot flashes. 

 

For women who haven’t yet reached menopause, there are plenty of ways to prepare. “Focus on good sleep habits, exercise regularly, and maintain healthy weight,” Dr. Van Straaten said. “It’s also important to build strong bones. Get enough calcium and vitamin D, include resistance training in your routine, and if you’re over 40, add extra protein to your diet to help preserve muscle mass.” 

 

Understanding menopause is also key to supporting the women around you. Recognizing fatigue, irritability, or mood swings as symptoms can help you respond with patience and compassion instead of frustration. “It’s a major life transition, both physically and emotionally,” Dr. Van Straaten explained. “Your support will go a long way.” 

 

Ultimately, menopause is a milestone to celebrate. The symptoms can be challenging, but this phase marks the start of a new chapter, earned through years of growth, wisdom, and resilience. “Every woman who reaches menopause has lived a lot of life,” Dr. Van Straaten said. “We should treat it as a badge of honor.” 

 

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of menopause, talk to your primary care provider. Menopause is typically diagnosed based on a woman’s history and symptoms. Seeking medical guidance helps you face menopause informed, supported, and ready. 

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