Menopause Outline

Menopause Outline

What is it?

Menopause is natural and unavoidable event. Menopause is defined as the permanent cessation of menstruation brought on by ovarian failure. Follicles in ovaries become less responsive to FSH, which stimulate follicles before ovulation. Menopause occurs after 1 full year of amenorrhea.

Risk Factors:

Include genetics, environmental factors such as smoking, surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, and aging.

Signs and Symptoms:

Hot flashes, night sweats, sweating, palpitations, insomnia, sleep disturbances, shivering, increase pulse, feeling faint, nausea, increased vaginal infections, painful sex from decreased lubrication and itching, decreased libido, dysuria, urinary frequency or urgency, nervousness, anxiety, mood changes, irritability, depression, forgetfulness, low self-esteem, fatigue, irregular or complete loss of period, skit itchy and crawling feel, joint pain and weight gain.

Long Term Effects:

High risks for cardiovascular diseases, rise in insulin resistance, osteoporosis, and increased cholesterol levels.

Treatment:

Menopause can be diagnosed by careful history and assessment. They may also do a blood test for FSH levels to diagnose the absence of period.

Lifestyle changes to lower symptoms:

Exercise, lowering weight, avoiding stress, lower caffeine and alcohol intake, and stop smoking.

Complimentary treatments:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) which provides supplemental estrogen and progestogen. May also give antihypertensive to reduce symptoms like hot flashes. Access to counseling, support, and education with help psychologically for this time period.

Nursing Care:

Monitor blood pressure, BMI, and blood sugar. Provide support and education.

Nursing Teachings:

Avoid trigger foods like hot drinks or spicy foods to prevent hot flashes. Discuss concerns, feelings and perceptions about menopause with patient. Avoid daytime naps or take a warm bath before bedtime to reduce insomnia. Wear layers of light clothing to manage hot flashes. Use moisturizers to manage dryness and itching skin or vagina. Keep cool pack or spray at bedside for night sweats.

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