1. What is Menopause?
When women reach their 40s and beyond, ovarian function slows down. Some may experience irregular menstruation, which may initially become more frequent and then gradually become less frequent until it stops completely. When the ovaries permanently stop producing hormones, menstruation ceases, which usually occurs between the ages of 40-55.
2. Why is the age 40+ called “Golden Age”?
When women reach their 40s, most have stable careers, families, and social lives. It is considered an age of life success, which is why this period is often called the “Golden Age.”
3. What are the symptoms of the Golden Age?
At first, menstruation becomes irregular and may be accompanied by symptoms that disrupt daily life, such as insomnia, mood swings, body and joint aches, fatigue, and general disinterest. Some may develop osteoporosis and high blood cholesterol.
4. Is it possible to enter the Golden Age at a young age?
Women who have had their uterus and ovaries completely removed, as well as those who have undergone radiation or chemotherapy for treatment, often experience premature hormone loss. They usually have symptoms similar to menopausal women but with greater severity due to sudden hormone deficiency and younger age.
5. Do all women have similar symptoms during the Golden Age?
It depends on genetics and behavior. Women who have had both ovaries removed at a young age tend to experience faster decline than those who go through natural menopause. However, obese women often have fewer symptoms because they have more hormone reserves stored in their bodies compared to thin women.
6. Can women still have children after entering the Golden Age?
Most young and older women entering the Golden Age, usually after age 40, find it difficult to conceive because the ovaries begin to malfunction and hormone production fluctuates. Ovulation occurs infrequently, and menstruation becomes irregular, reducing the chances of pregnancy.
7. Where do sex hormones come from?
During youth, the ovaries produce sex hormones, or estrogen, which promote the development of female characteristics and affect various organs such as bones, blood lipids, brain, mood, mind, and reproductive organs. The ovaries also produce progesterone, which supports pregnancy. When not pregnant, this hormone causes the uterine lining to shed as menstruation.
8. What is hot flash during the Golden Age?
It is a sudden feeling of heat on the skin of the head or chest, often followed by excessive sweating, chills, fatigue, and dizziness. Some experience it at night. This symptom usually occurs in the first 2-3 years after menopause.
9. Burning sensation during sexual intercourse
When entering menopause, estrogen levels in the body are very low, which may cause burning sensations. This is due to dryness and loss of elasticity in the vaginal walls and lining. The vagina becomes narrower and shorter, producing less lubrication both normally and during intercourse, causing pain.
10. Urinary leakage and inability to hold urine
Estrogen deficiency causes tissues and blood vessels around the bladder to atrophy, making it difficult to hold urine. Coughing, sneezing, or laughing hard may cause urine leakage. Estrogen deficiency also thins the lining of the urinary tract, making infections more likely. Some may develop cystitis, resulting in frequent urination and burning pain near the end of urination.
Dr. Siriorn Sumalnop
Specialist in Gynecology and Menopause
Women’s Health Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
