Menopause Symptoms

Menopause — medically known as the climacteric — is a natural phase in every woman's life. It usually begins between the ages of 45 and 55 and involves hormonal changes that can cause physical and emotional symptoms.

Many women experience menopause very differently: while some have hardly any symptoms, others suffer significantly from hot flashes, sleep disturbances, or mood swings. These symptoms are real and should be taken seriously.

The good news: Menopausal symptoms are highly treatable. With individually tailored therapy, symptoms can often be significantly relieved — including after medical review through an online consultation.

Menopause describes the transition from the fertile phase to the final cessation of menstruation. The cause is the declining function of the ovaries and the associated decrease in female hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone.

The hormone deficiency affects numerous organ systems, including the cardiovascular system, bone metabolism, mucous membranes, and the nervous system.

The cause of menopausal symptoms lies in the declining hormone production of the ovaries.

Estrogen deficiency is the main factor for many typical symptoms such as hot flashes, sweating, and mucosal changes.

Hormonal fluctuations during the transition phase can cause cycle irregularities, breast tenderness, or mood swings.

Individual factors such as genetic predisposition, stress, lifestyle, and pre-existing conditions influence how strongly symptoms are perceived.

Surgical procedures, such as removal of the ovaries, can also lead to an abrupt onset of menopause.

Symptoms during menopause are varied and can manifest with different intensity.

Warning signs that should be medically evaluated include heavy bleeding, persistent depressive symptoms, or suddenly occurring complaints.

The diagnosis of menopause is based primarily on typical symptoms and the woman's age.

Hormone tests are not necessary in most cases but can be useful for unclear symptoms or very early onset. These include FSH and estrogen levels, among others.

A gynecological examination serves to rule out other causes of bleeding disorders or symptoms.

An online consultation can also be used to systematically record symptoms and discuss possible treatment options.

Treatment of menopausal symptoms depends on the type and severity of symptoms as well as individual risk factors.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most effective treatment for severe symptoms. It compensates for hormone deficiency and particularly alleviates hot flashes and sleep disturbances. Depending on the situation, estrogens alone or in combination with progestogens are used. Possible side effects include breast tenderness or light bleeding.

Local estrogens are used for vaginal dryness and act directly on site with low systemic burden.

Non-hormonal therapies include herbal preparations, low-dose antidepressants, or certain blood pressure medications that can reduce hot flashes.

The decision for or against hormone therapy should always be made individually with medical guidance.

Various prescription medications are available for treatment. Click on a medication to learn more about its effects, dosage and side effects.

Active

Estradiol 1 mg, Norethisteronacetat 0,5 mg

Effects & dosage

cyclo-Progynova

Estradiolvalerat, Norgestrel

Effects & dosage

Estramon conti

Estradiol 50 µg/24h, Norethisteronacetat 170 µg/24h

Effects & dosage

Estreva

Estradiol 0,1%

Effects & dosage

estring

Estradiol 2 mg (Freisetzung ca. 7,5 µg/Tag)

Effects & dosage

famenita

Progesteron (mikronisiert) 100 mg / 200 mg

Effects & dosage

A healthy lifestyle can positively influence menopausal symptoms.

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress reduction help reduce weight gain and mood swings. Quitting smoking also has a beneficial effect.

For osteoporosis prevention, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake as well as strength training are particularly important.