Just when it feels like you’ve got life mostly figured out, menopause shows up. One day you’re cruising along, and the next you’re dealing with hot flashes, sleepless nights and unexpected changes that can leave you wondering what’s happening.
Menopause occurs when a person has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. This happens because ovaries stop making hormones needed for reproduction. It most commonly happens around ages 45 to 55, although it can happen earlier or later.
“One of the questions I hear most often is, ‘Is this menopause?'” says Dr. Janet Reynolds, Medical Director, Calgary Foothills PCN. “Symptoms often start during perimenopause, which can begin a couple of years before menopause, and they may continue for several years afterward. Every person’s experience is different, which is why treatment should be tailored to their symptoms and goals.”
The most common symptoms include:
Hormonal changes can also affect mood and emotional well-being. Many people experience increased stress, anxiety or low mood during menopause.
Aging, life changes and everyday stressors can also contribute to these symptoms.
While menopause is a natural stage of life, you don’t have to manage difficult symptoms on your own. The best place to start is with your family doctor or nurse practitioner. They can help you understand what’s happening, discuss your symptoms and recommend treatment options that may work best for you. In most cases, menopause is diagnosed based on your symptoms and menstrual history, so routine blood work or hormone testing isn’t needed.
Your provider may suggest:
Healthy lifestyle habits can help manage symptoms and support overall well-being during menopause and beyond. The basics like regular movement, nutritious meals, stress management and good sleep hygiene all contribute to improved health. You can also try reducing alcohol consumption, avoiding smoking and increasing protein and calcium intake. Small, sustainable steps make the biggest difference.
Menopause can bring challenges, but it doesn’t have to take you by surprise. Understanding what’s happening and knowing where to find support can help you navigate this stage of life with more confidence and a lot less guesswork.
Calgary Foothills PCN also offers free workshops that can help support overall health during menopause. Depending on your needs, you may benefit from workshops that focus on healthy eating, emotional well-being and behaviour change.
You can also find trusted information about menopause from the Canadian Menopause Society.
Alongside your family doctor or nurse practitioner, Calgary Foothills PCN can provide additional support through: