Menopause is a normal part of a woman’s life. It marks the time when her monthly periods stop and she can no longer become pregnant naturally. Most women reach menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, though some experience it earlier or later.

What Happens During Menopause

Menopause happens when the ovaries stop releasing eggs and hormone levels, especially estrogen, decrease. This gradual change can cause different physical and emotional effects.

Some women notice only mild symptoms, while others experience more intense changes that can affect daily routines.

Common signs include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Irregular or missing periods
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex
• Trouble sleeping
• Mood swings, sadness, or anxiety

Every woman’s experience is unique. For some, symptoms fade quickly, while others may feel them for several years.

Health Effects After Menopause

Falling estrogen levels also affect other parts of the body. Bones become thinner, raising the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. The risk of heart disease can increase too. Pelvic muscles may weaken, leading to occasional leaks or a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic area.

To stay healthy, women are encouraged to have regular check-ups, eat balanced meals, and stay physically active.

Can Pregnancy Still Happen?

During perimenopause (the years before menopause), pregnancy is still possible. Women are advised to continue using contraception until 12 months after their last period to prevent unplanned pregnancy.

Even after menopause, safe sex is still important because sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can still be passed through unprotected contact. Thinner vaginal tissues after menopause may even increase the risk of small tears and infections.

Why Awareness Matters

Many women are not informed about what to expect during menopause. Some feel embarrassed to talk about their symptoms or think nothing can be done. Because of this, many live with discomfort in silence.

Health systems need to make menopause information, counseling, and treatment available to all women. Simple lifestyle changes, open conversations, and the right medical care can make a big difference.

The Philippine Perspective

In the Philippines, menopause is rarely discussed openly. Many women tend to ignore the symptoms or attribute them to stress or ageing. Access to menopause-related care can also be limited, especially in rural areas where women may not seek check-ups unless they feel sick.

Health professionals encourage open conversations about menopause during routine visits, such as family planning or maternal check-ups. Support from family and community health programs can help women manage symptoms and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Menopause education should be part of every woman’s lifelong health care from reproductive years to healthy ageing.

 A Positive Transition

Menopause is not a disease but a new chapter in a woman’s health journey. It can be a time to focus on well-being, fitness, and emotional balance. Understanding what happens in the body helps women embrace ageing with confidence and take charge of their long-term health.