Menopause marks the end of menstruation and fertility for women. The menopause process begins with changes to the menstrual cycle and ovulation and results in a complete end to menstruation. Reduced levels of hormones in your body may cause symptoms, including hot flashes, irritability, irregular periods, insomnia and low libido. Changes to your gastrointestinal system may occur, as well.
GERD
You may be at increased risk of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease, GERD, after menopause due to hormonal changes, according to a study published in the May 2008 "Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners," which examined the prevalence and pattern of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in perimenopausal and menopausal women. GERD occurs when stomach acid regurgitates into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to stomach.Acid regurgitation is also known as heartburn. Heartburn causes a burning sensation behind the breastbone in the center of the chest. Heartburn that occurs more than twice per week may be indicative of GERD, states the Cleveland Clinic. Additional symptoms of GERD include a burning or raw sensation in the throat, feeling as if food becomes caught in the throat, hoarseness and a dry cough.
Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence, or the leakage of stool, is a common complaint during menopause, states the North American Menopause Society. Hormonal changes in menopause result in the relaxation of pelvic muscles responsible for bowel control. NAMS states that up to one-quarter of women suffer from fecal incontinence during menopause. Physical therapy may help strengthen the pelvic floor and rectal muscles for better elimination control.
Bloating and Gas
Intestinal gas may become problematic once you enter menopause, according to MenopauseRX.com. Gas forms in the intestines as a natural part of the food digestion process. Eating foods high in fiber, while beneficial for good health and digestion, may increase intestinal gas. Women in menopause may be more likely to follow a high fiber diet to optimize health, states MenopauseRx.com, which may lead to increased gas. Advancing age may also play a role. Abdominal bloating and distension may be experienced with increased gas. Consider using anti-gas tablets or adjusting your diet to help with gas, MenopauseRx.com suggests.
References
- Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: Menopause
- PubMed.gov: The Prevalence and Pattern of Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms in Perimenopausal and Menopausal Women
- American College of Gastroenterology: Common GI Problems in Women: Post Menopausal HRT
- North American Menopausal Society: The Changing Body
- MenopauseRx.com: Gas/Flatulance
