Menopause: When to Seek Medical Advice for Your Mother

About menopause?

Hello, I would like to ask about my mother, who is currently 55 years old and has not yet reached menopause.
Should I take her to the hospital for an examination? Her menstrual cycles are regular, occurring every month and lasting about two to three days.
Recently, a health worker from our local clinic visited our home and was quite surprised that my mother has not yet gone through menopause at her age.
She mentioned that women who have not yet reached menopause may have poor health, but my mother does not experience any discomfort.
She also stated that postmenopausal women tend to be in better health than those who have not yet reached menopause.
Is this statement accurate? It is even more surprising that my mother's health seems to be better than that of postmenopausal women.
What should I do, doctor? I look forward to your response.
Thank you.

maymay, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/10/31

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Due to the generally good nutritional status of the population, the onset of menopause has been delayed.
Typically, menopause occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, but some women may not experience it until ages 55 to 59.
A later onset of menopause may indicate a stronger influence of female hormones on the endometrium, which could increase the risk of uterine pathologies.
Therefore, if menstruation has not ceased by age 55 or if menstrual flow has not decreased, it is advisable to follow up with a gynecologist to check for conditions such as uterine fibroids or endometrial hyperplasia.
However, there is no need for excessive concern, as most examinations tend to be normal.

Reply Date: 2000/10/31

More Info

Menopause is a significant transition in a woman's life, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55, marking the end of her reproductive years. It is characterized by the cessation of menstrual periods and a decline in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone. Your mother, at 55 years old and still experiencing regular menstrual cycles, is likely in the perimenopausal stage, which can last several years before menopause officially occurs.
The fact that your mother is still menstruating regularly is not unusual for her age, and many women experience this phase differently. Some may have symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, or sleep disturbances, while others may not experience any discomfort at all. It is essential to understand that every woman's experience with menopause is unique, and some may feel healthier and more vibrant during this time than they did in their younger years.

Regarding the comments made by the health worker about women who have not yet reached menopause having poorer health, this is a generalization that does not apply to everyone. Many factors influence a woman's health, including genetics, lifestyle, diet, and existing medical conditions. If your mother feels well and is not experiencing any significant discomfort, there may be no immediate cause for concern. However, it is always a good idea to monitor her health and be aware of any changes.

Here are some considerations for when to seek medical advice for your mother regarding menopause:
1. Symptoms: If your mother begins to experience bothersome symptoms such as severe hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, or sleep disturbances, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider. They can offer guidance on managing these symptoms, which may include lifestyle changes, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or other medications.

2. Menstrual Changes: If her menstrual cycles become irregular, significantly heavier, or if she experiences prolonged bleeding, it is essential to seek medical advice. These changes could indicate other underlying health issues that need to be addressed.

3. Bone Health: Post-menopausal women are at an increased risk for osteoporosis due to decreased estrogen levels. If your mother has risk factors for osteoporosis (such as a family history, low body weight, or a sedentary lifestyle), it may be beneficial for her to have a bone density test.

4. Cardiovascular Health: Menopause is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Regular check-ups that include monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other cardiovascular risk factors are essential.

5. Mental Health: Changes in hormone levels can affect mood and mental health. If your mother experiences anxiety, depression, or significant mood swings, it is crucial to seek help from a mental health professional.

6. General Health Check-ups: Regular health screenings, including mammograms, Pap smears, and other age-appropriate tests, should continue as she ages, regardless of her menopausal status.

In conclusion, while your mother may currently be in good health and not experiencing any discomfort, it is essential to maintain regular check-ups with her healthcare provider. This will ensure that any potential issues can be addressed early on. If you have concerns about her health or menopause, discussing these with a healthcare professional can provide clarity and reassurance. It is also beneficial to encourage open communication with your mother about her health and any changes she may experience as she approaches menopause.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Menopause: When to Seek Help from a Specialist

Doctor, my mother's medical history shows that she underwent surgery in 2006 for endometriosis, after which she received an injection to suppress menstruation for six months. In 2008, my mother mentioned that she is experiencing menopause. She hasn't had her period for ...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. Please visit the obstetrics and gynecology department for a consultation. 2. As for how to proceed, the physician will provide recommendations after the examination. Wishing you peace and good health.

How to Help Your Mom Thrive During Menopause: Nutrition Tips

Hello, nutritionist. My mother is currently going through menopause and often seems low on energy. Sometimes she takes walks outside, but when she's at home, she either sits in a chair resting (not much energy) or goes back to her room to rest in bed. How can I help her quic...

Dr. Huang Shuli reply Nutrition
Hello! Here are the dietary recommendations for nutritional health during menopause: maintain an ideal weight, ensure a balanced and diverse intake of nutrients, and do not overlook the importance of calcium, magnesium, and B vitamins, as they can help alleviate fatigue and reduc...

Which Medical Specialist Should We Consult for Mom's Health Issues?

Hello Doctor: My mother is 58 years old and feels very fatigued and weak every day. When the weather gets hot, she experiences dizziness, neck and back pain, and often complains of feeling like she is suffocating. She also has episodes of fainting, night sweats, and her blood pre...

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Family Medicine
Night sweats, sensitivity to cold, and shivering at your mother's age may be symptoms of menopause syndrome. Additionally, elevated blood pressure could indicate hypertension. Therefore, 1. A comprehensive adult health check-up should be conducted to identify any abnormaliti...

Is It Menopause? Understanding Symptoms and Support for Your Mother

To: Dear Doctor, My mother is 52 years old and has been feeling unwell recently. She has seen many doctors, but there has been no improvement. Her symptoms include insomnia and a sensation of fullness in her ears, accompanied by a buzzing sound. While she can still hear, it is ...

Dr. Liang Yinpan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear daughter, I understand your concerns! The main issue your mother is facing is related to insomnia. Please take her to a hospital that has a specialized sleep clinic (such as the Changhua, Fengyuan, or Taichung hospitals under the Department of Health) for treatment; it will ...