Important Things to Know About Menopause and Care

Important Things to Know About Menopause and Care

Menopause is a natural phenomenon in women’s bodies. If you’re worried because you don’t know what to expect or have general concerns regarding Women's Health, Dr. Deana Al-Khateeb of Ridgeview Internal Medicine in Woodbridge, VA can help.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a biological occurrence among women, in which their menstrual cycle ends. This means that the ovaries are no longer producing egg cells, further indicating the end of a woman’s fertility.

It usually occurs at around 50 years old, although there are some who experience it a bit earlier in their mid to late 40s. Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 straight months of menstrual absence. 

Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause is neither a disease nor a disorder. There are, however, a variety of symptoms that can be uncomfortable. Some of the more common ones are hot flashes, lower energy, and disruption of sleep. Apart from these physical symptoms, it can also affect one’s emotional health. Mood swings are also usually observed in those experiencing menopause. 

It may seem alarming at first, especially if you do not understand what is going on with your body. That is why it is important to visit a healthcare practice such as Ridgeview Internal Medicine in Woodbrook, VA. 

Before Menopause

Menopause does not occur overnight. It can take months, even years, before the menstrual cycle comes to a full stop. During this period, otherwise known as perimenopause, you may experience some more telling signs. 

Among the more common symptoms of perimenopause include irregular periods, chills, hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, metabolism changes, hair thinning, dry skin, and vaginal dryness.

Every woman’s body is different, and so these may not necessarily occur exactly the same for everyone. At the very least, however, you can rest assured that what your body is going through is normal. 

Menopausal Care

There are a variety of care tips that women can do in order to reduce the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause. 

Take Calcium and Vitamin D

Hormonal changes brought about by menopause can cause bones to weaken, making menopausal women more susceptible to developing osteoporosis. 

Calcium and Vitamin D can help mitigate these risk factors. Calcium-rich food such as dairy products and leafy greens can be easily incorporated into one’s diet, while Vitamin D is usually present in oily fish and eggs. The easiest way to get the recommended amount of Calcium and Vitamin D, however, is to take supplements for each. 

Cut Back on Refined Sugar

Those who have a sweet tooth might want to find alternative sweeteners as they approach menopause. Refined sugar, as well as processed food in general, have been found to impact mood swings. It’s said to even possibly increase the risk for depression. 

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Weight gain is common during menopause, but it would still be good to maintain a healthy weight as this can affect the severity of symptoms experienced during this period. Plus, it’s just good for your overall health. 

If you need further assistance in dealing with menopause, don’t hesitate to seek help from Dr. Al-Khateeb of Ridgeview Internal Medicine at Woodbrook, VA. Call (703) 494-4116 today.


This website includes materials that are protected by copyright, or other proprietary rights. Transmission or reproduction of protected items beyond that allowed by fair use, as defined in the copyright laws, requires the written permission of the copyright owners.

Contact Us


2000 Opitz Blvd Woodbridge, VA 22191