What Is Menopause, and What Are Its Symptoms and Treatment Options?

Question

I’ve started to notice changes in my body as I approach my late 40s, and I think I might be experiencing the early stages of menopause. Now I’m wondering—what exactly is menopause, and what are its symptoms and treatment options?

From what I understand, menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life when menstruation stops, and hormone levels decrease. But what are the most common symptoms of menopause—does it primarily cause hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and irregular periods? Are there other signs that I should be aware of as I approach this stage of life?

I also read that menopause can affect bone health, skin elasticity, and even mental health. What are the treatment options available—should I rely on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or are there natural methods, like diet changes and herbal supplements, that can help manage symptoms?

Since I prefer natural remedies, I looked into Ayurveda’s approach to menopause. Are there Ayurvedic herbs, foods, or lifestyle practices that can help ease the transition and support hormonal balance? I found that Shatavari, Ashwagandha, and regular meditation are often recommended—do these actually help in managing menopause symptoms and improving overall well-being during this phase?

For those who have gone through menopause, what treatments or lifestyle changes worked best for you? Did HRT, natural remedies, or dietary adjustments provide the most relief? I’d love to hear real experiences on managing menopause effectively.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life when menstruation stops, typically occurring in your late 40s or early 50s, marking the end of reproductive years. It’s accompanied by hormonal changes that can cause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irregular periods, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness. Other effects may include changes in bone density, skin elasticity, and mental health. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common treatment to manage symptoms, natural methods such as dietary changes (including phytoestrogen-rich foods like flaxseeds), herbal supplements like Shatavari (supports hormonal balance), Ashwagandha (helps with stress and vitality), and regular meditation can also be effective in easing the transition. Ayurveda emphasizes balancing mind, body, and spirit to support the menopausal process, and practices like yoga, stress reduction, and a balanced diet can contribute to overall well-being. Many women find that a combination of lifestyle changes, natural remedies, and sometimes HRT provides the best relief, helping them navigate menopause with greater ease and balance.

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