Prior to menopause, most women are primarily concerned about fat on the hips, thighs or buttocks. But, during the menopausal transition, fat redistributes itself and collects on the abdomen. This "beer-belly" look may make you feel self-conscious, especially if you are significantly overweight. It may also increase your risk for several long-term health problems. Consult your health care provider if you are concerned about your amount of abdominal fat after menopause.
Causes
During menopause, women experience a rapid reduction in levels of reproductive hormones, most notably estrogen and progesterone. These hormones help to govern fat distribution, particularly around the buttocks, belly, hips and breasts. Changes in midlife cause the fat to redistribute, often detracting from the breasts, thighs or hips and filling in the stomach area. Additionally, the body adjusts to a slower metabolism and requires fewer calories; this often leads to overall weight gain.
Health Risks
A slight change in body shape during menopause is completely normal, natural and ultimately harmless. However, excessive amounts of stomach fat are harmful at almost any age. According to MayoClinic.com, women with excessive fat around the abdomen are at an increased risk of developing heart disease, breast cancer, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, gallbladder disease, hypertension and colon cancer. MayoClinic.com associates these risks with any waist measurement of 33 inches or more, regardless of your age and life stage.
Treatments
The most effective method for preventing excessive abdominal fat involves overall weight loss. Despite claims from fad diets, promising to facilitate targeted weight loss in the abdomen, there is no evidence that any diet can specifically eliminate stomach fat. Daily, moderate exercise and a reduced-calorie diet are the cornerstone for enabling successful weight loss. MayoClinic.com acknowledges the use of hormone therapy for menopausal abdominal fat but notes that it has many risks and that there is no compelling evidence of its efficacy.
Considerations
Body image problems and mood disturbances are common during menopause. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, many menopausal women experience symptoms such as depression, irritability and emotional tension during the menopausal transition. Because of this, abdominal fat may seem much more upsetting and disfiguring than it is. Consider that many people regard curvy bellies as sexy and feminine. All women will experience menopause at some point, and the changes that occur with it are as natural a transition as puberty. Talk to a professional if you are preoccupied with your perceptions of your appearance.
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