Understanding menopause — diagnosis, symptom management and treatment options for SA women.
Menopause is defined as 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, marking the end of reproductive years. The average age in South Africa is 51, though it can occur naturally between 45–55. Surgical menopause (after ovary removal) can happen at any age.
Hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep disruption, weight gain, thinning hair, dry skin, and loss of breast fullness. Long-term effects include increased risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease due to declining oestrogen.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is the most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms. Non-hormonal options include certain antidepressants (SSRIs), gabapentin for hot flushes, and vaginal oestrogen for local symptoms. Lifestyle modifications help all women.
Consult your doctor if symptoms interfere with daily life, you experience heavy or prolonged bleeding, you're considering HRT, or you have a family history of breast cancer, blood clots or heart disease that may affect treatment choices.