Post menopause is simply the final stage of menopause. It occurs once the menstrual cycles have completely stopped and the ovaries are producing little or no hormones. Post menopause generally takes place in a woman's late fifties. The symptoms are manageable and are often viewed as a relief after the emotional and physical havoc menopause has caused to the body.
Decline of Menopause Symptoms
One of the most tell-tale signs of post menopause is the overall decline of the typical menopause symptoms. According to Discovery Health, women will notice fewer hot flashes and mood swings, while night sweats may decline or cease completely. Memory improvement is also another sign of post menopause.
Vaginal Dryness
Due to the drop of hormones, many women complain about vaginal dryness at this stage. According to Discovery Health, vaginal dryness is a common symptom of post menopause.
Bone Fragility
During post menopause, the density of a woman's bones will drop significantly, leaving the bones fragile. Because of this, women are at greater risk for fractures, joint and bone pain. When the bones become weakened, many women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis.
Facial Hair Growth
According to the Healthcare Information Directory, women may begin to grow facial hair due to the drop in estrogen and increase of testosterone. The testosterone is what causes the sudden hair growth, particularly on the upper lip.
Incontinence
Incontinence of the bladder is a common post menopause symptom. Sudden physical activities such as coughing, sneezing or laughing can lead to the bladder releasing unexpectedly.
Sleep Changes
Once women enter post menopause, they may begin to suffer from insomnia, which is the inability to fall asleep, or they may have trouble staying asleep. According to Sleep Review, these changes in sleep patterns can leave women feeling restless and increase daytime sleepiness and fatigue.
Decreased Sexual Satisfaction
Women may begin to experience decreased satisfaction or sexual desire after menopause. The sudden decrease of hormones in the body makes it more difficult for women to achieve an orgasm.
Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are a post menopause symptom that many women experience anywhere from a few months to several years after menopause has ended. If the hot flashes are in correlation with symptoms such as dizziness, palpitation of the heart, headache and fatigue, a consultation with a doctor may be in order, as the symptoms may reflect a serious illnesses.
