🌺 Men's Health

Menopause

After periods stop — managing the transition and beyond.

Menopause is confirmed when a woman has had no period for 12 consecutive months. In Nigeria, the average age is 48–50. Menopause is not a disease — it is a natural life stage — but its symptoms and long-term effects on bone, heart, and brain deserve proper medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms

✓ Hot flushes — may persist 5–10 years post-menopause in some women

✓ Night sweats disrupting sleep

✓ Vaginal dryness, itching, or pain with sex

✓ Urinary urgency, frequency, or recurrent UTIs

✓ Mood changes, irritability, or low mood

✓ Brain fog and memory difficulties

✓ Joint and muscle aches

✓ Changes in skin texture and hair thinning

✓ Weight gain, especially abdominal

✓ Reduced libido

Risk Factors

Age (average 48–50 in Nigeria)
Premature ovarian insufficiency (before age 40) — increases long-term health risks
Surgical menopause (oophorectomy) — abrupt and often more severe symptoms
Smoking — associated with earlier and more severe menopause
Cardiovascular disease risk increases post-menopause
Osteoporosis risk accelerates after oestrogen loss

When to Seek Help

SoonSymptoms significantly affecting quality of life — hot flushes, sleep disruption, vaginal dryness, mood changes. Effective treatments exist.

SoonAny vaginal bleeding after 12 months of amenorrhoea — must be investigated to rule out endometrial pathology.

RoutineBone density assessment, cardiovascular risk review, and general menopause health check — ideally within the first 2 years of menopause.

Tests & Diagnosis

🧪 Bone Density (DEXA Scan)

Baseline assessment recommended at menopause or within 2 years. Guides decisions on calcium, vitamin D, and bone-protective medication.

🧪 Fasting Lipid Profile

Cardiovascular risk increases after menopause. HDL falls; LDL and triglycerides rise. Annual monitoring recommended.

🧪 Fasting Blood Glucose / HbA1c

Insulin resistance increases post-menopause. Annual screening for diabetes risk.

🧪 Blood Pressure

Hypertension risk rises significantly. Check at every medical visit.

🧪 Mammogram & Cervical Smear

Breast cancer risk increases with age. Continue regular screening per guidelines.

Treatment Options

HRT — Hormone Replacement Therapy

The most effective treatment for hot flushes, sleep, mood, vaginal, and urinary symptoms. Also protects bone and has cardiovascular benefits when started early (within 10 years of menopause). Discuss risks individually.

Vaginal Oestrogen (Local)

Safe for vaginal and urinary symptoms even when systemic HRT is not suitable. Does not carry the same systemic risks. Can be continued long-term.

Bone Protection

Weight-bearing exercise, calcium (1200mg/day), vitamin D (800–1000 IU/day), and bisphosphonates if osteoporosis is confirmed.

Cardiovascular Risk Management

Mediterranean-style diet, exercise, blood pressure control, lipid management — menopause is an opportunity to address long-term cardiovascular health proactively.

Lifestyle Optimisation

Strength training preserves muscle and bone mass. Cognitive engagement supports brain health. Good sleep hygiene, alcohol reduction, and not smoking all reduce menopause-related health risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does menopause affect the heart?

Yes. Oestrogen is cardioprotective. After menopause, cardiovascular risk rises significantly. Women's heart disease risk equals men's by age 65. Post-menopause is a critical time for cardiovascular health assessment.

Is weight gain inevitable after menopause?

Weight gain is common but not inevitable. Hormonal changes shift fat distribution towards the abdomen. Regular strength training and a lower-refined-carbohydrate diet are the most effective preventive strategies.

How long should I take HRT?

There is no fixed limit for most women. The decision is individual and based on symptoms, risks, and benefits. Many women continue for 5+ years. Discuss the ongoing need with your doctor annually.

Are there alternatives to HRT?

Yes — for women who cannot or prefer not to take HRT. Certain antidepressants, clonidine, and gabapentin reduce hot flushes. Vaginal oestrogen addresses local symptoms. None are as comprehensively effective as systemic HRT.

Will my sex life improve after treatment?

Vaginal dryness and discomfort respond very well to vaginal oestrogen. Libido is more complex and may involve counselling alongside hormonal treatment.