Questions about Menopause?

Hi. This may be a very odd questions for someone my age to ask. I am 24 years old and a mother of two. But this is something that I never asked my own mother and never really asked anyone untill now.

I know that menopause is when your period stops and you stop ovulating. But is there anything besides those 2 things that happen? And does it last years?

Also my mother went through menopause at 43 years old and she became very, very depressed and anxious. To the point where she almost had a nervous break down. After menopause was over her nerves got better. She blames menopause for her sudden mental status. Do you believe that is what caused it?

If so why? What are all of the symptoms of menopause and how long does it last? And 1 other question. Can you still have orgasm's after you go through menopause?

Thank you for your answers!

I'm 47 and started going through it about 3 years ago. It seems that everyone is different, most will agree on the hot flashes though. My own mother had a really tough time going through this phase. She had a mental breakdown and screamed at us alot, then would cry. Everyone is different, and they handle the symptoms differently. Mostly mine is the hot flashes. You feel like stripping every inch of clothes off to try and cool down. As fast as it comes, it goes. I am a very high spirited person. Though a few days I might feel depressed, I usually bounce right back. There are some that can not do this though. I'm in to the herbal teas and supplements, which seem to help, but remember your vitamins. I don't care for the side effects of the hormonal therpy. And don't let a doctor tell you that you can't get preg. at this time. I skip maybe 5-6 periods before I have one. Sometimes heavy and others I spot. My family doctor said after 6 mths had went passed, I probaby wouldn't get preg. and most likely wouldn't have another period. WRONG. If I had listened, I probably would have baby now as I got my period about a month after he said this. My baby is now 18 and to start over isn't what I want. My husband & I are enjoying our grandchildren right now. I think as long as you get a period within a years time, you are considered pre-menopause and this can last quite a few years. We joke with my mom that her's lasted my whole childhood and teenage years. It all comes down to your body and personality. I am the baby girl of our family. My sister 8 years older than I just started this year. So everything varies. As for your last question..... I think sex, emotions, and companionship gets better. Mine still works, and with no kids around, we are more carefree. It's terrific!

Every woman has a different experience. Some have depression, anxiety, hot flashes. Crazy hormones can make you feel like your mind is no longer your own. Some women have to get help. The doctor can test for hormone levels. A B-Complex vitamin can help a LOT with the hormonal "crazies." Some women experience NOTHING.

seems like years AND years. Hot flashes the biggest and really only thing i noticed. One minute your freezing and turning up the heat, then you have to open the window and get naked to cool off, lol. as for your last question...........mine still works.

I've been reading up a lot on menopause and hormones.

our hormones can become so out of whack, I'm not surprised at your mother's reaction.

fortunately, there are lots of things you and your mother can do. read up on bio-identical, NATURAL hormone replacement. There are numerous books on the subject. Then find a forward-thinking practitioner near you for help.

Do NOT let your doctor put you on synthetic hormones! Be proactive in your health care!

Hi, I am 42 and have started Menopause a little early. There are a number of symptoms besides the moodiness. There are lovely hot flashes! Fortunately mine are mild right now. I feel like my skin is on fire and I have to cool down or feel like I might pass out but I don't have a fever and for me there is very little persperation. Then my periods aren't very regular anymore. I am experiencing breast tenderness more than usual around my period and for a longer time. Sometimes they are soft and hurt and other times as hard as a rock and hurt. I am not trying to scare you because it's all about being prepared...in other words, if someone thinks they are going into menopause, I would advise dressing in layers for making cooling off easier, and since you cannot predict when your period is going to start, be prepared for that. Buying a good support bra that isn't too tight but firm enough to keep breasts from sagging will relieve some of the pain. Whatever you normally take for pain for your period, keep on hand. Keeping tissues on hand for times that crying seems to wash over you helps too. I keep chocolate around more now for raising my endorphines and I exercise more which is one of the best ways to combat symptoms. There are medications and horomone therapy available for more severe symptoms. Also, you can have sex and orgasm just as before, although the moodiness, depression, and times of pain can make sex less than appealing. I recommend seeing a doctor about any concerns and medications for the depression and such. My doctor, a female, said that she has read that menopausal symptoms can last as long as 10 years. Always talk to an d be open with your doctor about any concerns.