Most symptoms of the change of life will eventually
disappear after the body has adjusted to the new low levels of hormones. But there are
other problems that may result from the long-term lack of oestrogen after the menopause
and which do not improve with time unless prevented by treatment.
Body and Bladder Changes
These persist long-term due to oestrogen
deficiency. After the menopause the vagina shortens,
narrows and loses its elasticity. The skin around it may get dry, thin and itchy. This can
frequently lead to painful intercourse which may be a cause of emotional stress in a
sexual relationship.
Because of the thining of the protective
lining of parts of the bladder and urethra some women are more likely to suffer bouts of
Cystitis.
Appearance
Much change is the inevitable result of
ageing, but the skin becomes particularly thin and dry and loses its suppleness, as a
result of the loss of hormones.
Bone changes
Oestrogen is particularly important in
keeping the bones strong, so after the menopause, bones
slowly become thinner and weaker (osteoporosis) owing
to the lack of this hormone. This is responsible for the "brittle bones" of many
elderly women, who develop fractures very easily. This explains why older women often
break their hips or wrists. Weakening of the spine causes the bent back so often seen in
old women – the "dowager’s hump". Bone and joint pains can also
result.
|
