For many women approaching middle-age menopause is a scary thought. One of the most difficult aspects is not knowing what to expect.

Some of the symptoms like hot flashes and changes in menstruation are commonly discussed. But, what do you know about the changes in your body’s estrogen?

At the onset of menopause, a woman’s estrogen level tends to drop, affecting the body in a number of ways. The decrease in estrogen may lead to an increased risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, urinary tract or bladder infections and problems associated with extreme vaginal dryness.

Heart disease

Studies confirm that estrogen reduces the risk of heart disease by 40 to 60 percent. It does so by lowering what is known as "bad" cholesterol, and raising "good" cholesterol.

How do you maintain your cardiovascular health when your body is losing estrogen? Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight will help. Treat high blood pressure, control your cholesterol, eat a healthy diet and don’t smoke.

Osteoporosis

Lower estrogen levels can cause your bones to lose mass rapidly, increasing your risk of developing osteoporosis. This results in a loss of height and an increased risk of bone fractures primarily in the spine, hips and wrists. Osteoporosis affects 20 million women in the U.S. alone and is responsible for 1.3 million fractures per year. These fractures can occur even during normal daily activities.

Getting plenty of calcium is the key to protecting the health of your bones. Also, take vitamin D, it helps your body absorb calcium. Weight-bearing exercises like walking, racket sports or dancing force your bones to work against gravity, thus strengthening your bones. Don’t smoke. Smoking increases bone loss.

Urinary tract problems

Your body’s decrease in estrogen levels causes the lining of the bladder, urethra and vagina to weaken, leaving tissues thin, dry and more vulnerable to inflammation and bacteria. Infection or irritation of the urinary tract or bladder may also become more frequent.

If you experience urinary irritation drink plenty of water. It will help to clean your bladder. Bathe with mild soap in warm water. Hot water can be drying. Avoid douches, sprays and rough or scented toilet tissue and wear cotton underwear.

Along with drying of the bladder, estrogen loss will cause drying of the vaginal area, which is already prone to dryness because it is wiped and dried with toilet tissue frequently. Vaginal dryness can lead to inflammation or painful intercourse.

For relief, use soft tissue products that are free of dyes and perfumes. If inflammation occurs avoid toilet tissue. Instead, fill a small spray bottle with warm water and squirt the inflamed area after urinating. Then, pat dry with a clean, soft towel. Ask your doctor about estrogen creams which are applied directly to the labia.

Hormone
replacement therapy

Many of menopause’s health risks can be prevented by replacing your body’s estrogen supply with estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Estrogen is available in pills, vaginal creams and skin patches. There are also alternatives to estrogen available. Speak with your physician and determine which is the best option for maintaining your good health.

Dr. Pimienta is an OB/GYN practicing at Deering Hospital, located at 9333 SW 152 St. Deering offers a variety of educational activities for the community. For more information on the hospital or any of its programs, call 305-256-5151.

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