Impact of Menopause on Women’s Health and Aging

Studies have determined that stroke risk increases every decade after the age of 55, and adding the decreasing levels of estrogen to this statistic may contribute to brain artery cholesterol buildup.

It has been found that lower estrogen levels in women leads to a faster decrease in bone mass, ultimately increasing the risk of osteoporosis onset. According to a recent study, women who experience vasomotor symptoms (VMS), more commonly known as menopausal hot flashes and/or night sweats, have an increased risk of bone loss and hip fracture. This correlation between VMS and fractures was determined to be a result of hormone fluctuations, specifically lower estradiol levels, as some longitudinal studies have found lower estradiol levels among women with more severe VMS.

Did you know that the bones accumulate lead? When the body is exposed to or consumes lead, most of the toxic chemical is stored in the bones. Furthermore, this skeletal lead can leach back into the bloodstream when bone density is compromised, either temporarily or permanently due to pregnancy, weight loss, menopause, or osteoporosis. As bone density breaks down following menopause, lead can enter the bloodstream easier and can increase women’s lead levels by 30 percent, thus increasing the risk for hypertension and atherosclerosis risk.

In addition, if not balanced or monitored, it can result in problems with kidney function, and dementia-like symptoms affecting memory and thinking.

Around half of women have urinary incontinence after menopause due to urethral weakness that occurs when hormones shift and a lack of estrogen occurs. Not only can this occurrence be inconvenient or embarrassing, urinary incontinence is also the main symptom of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), or low estrogen-specific conditions that causes external implications. Furthermore, it often affects about 50 percent of menopausal women and is often associated with sexual dysfunctions.

With declining estrogen levels, bones health is at risk, and bone loss of the jawbone is no exception. With this comes the risk for loose teeth, tooth loss and periodontal disease, which is why dental health and hygiene become a major concern as women age. Cavities and additional oral discomfort risks including dry mouth and sensation of painful mouth often occur during and after menopause as well.

Strive to exercise for 30 minutes a day. Exercise can help improve bone strength, heart health, and even boost your mood. Keeping it simple with regular walking or household chores can even be enough for improving health. Find out what activities suit you best and if you can incorporate them, aim for including moderate aerobic physical activity for two to three hours a week or vigorous aerobic activity for one hour a week, while also including strength-focused exercises.

For helpful Steps to Start New Fitness Habits Later in Life; According to Behavioral Science, click here.

Nutrition is just as important today as it was pre-menopause. While older women may require fewer calories, talk with your doctor to discuss calculating your necessary calorie needs based on your height, weight, and activity level, as well as any specific nutrient recommendations to accommodate any deficiencies.

In general, women over the age of 50 need specific levels of vitamin B6, B12, and calcium as they age. Vitamin D is also important and may not be at adequate levels from diet alone. Thus, have your doctor assess your needs for these nutrients and discuss finding the right menopausal and post-menopausal supplement regiment that meets your dietary needs.

Pregnancies are impossible after menopause, but sexually transmitted diseases are still possible. If with multiple partners or an open relationship, use condoms during sex to prevent STDs as symptoms can often be non-specific or may be misinterpreted as being due to the menopause. Additionally, due to menopause the vagina may become drier, resulting in small cuts or tears during sex. These tears can then increase the risk for infection.