Menopause and osteoporosis
At menopause periods stop and oestrogen levels fall. This fall affects metabolism and the heart, which is why follow-up continues.
What changes in the body
With the fall in oestrogen, total and 'bad' LDL cholesterol rise while 'good' HDL falls. Fluid retention and blood pressure increase, as does total body fat, mainly around the abdomen, which is linked to cardiovascular disease.
Carbohydrate metabolism is also disturbed: insulin resistance increases and glucose tolerance worsens, conditions that predispose to metabolic syndrome. Blood coagulability also rises, which increases the risk of embolism.
The role of diet
A large American study from Brown University, in post-menopausal women aged 50 to 79 followed for more than ten years, found that higher dietary magnesium intake was associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease and sudden cardiac death.
Diet is therefore one of the topics we discuss with you at menopause, alongside lipids, blood pressure and blood sugar.
Follow-up after menopause
The annual gynaecological check-up does not stop at menopause. The Pap test, colposcopy, transvaginal ultrasound of the womb and ovaries and breast examination continue every year. Bleeding after menopause needs investigation; do not ignore it.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I still need an annual check-up after menopause?
Yes. The annual check-up with Pap test, colposcopy, ultrasound and breast examination continues. In addition, because lipids, blood pressure and sugar metabolism change, it makes sense to monitor them. Discuss this at your next visit.
Why does cardiovascular risk rise at menopause?
The fall in oestrogen raises LDL cholesterol, lowers HDL, increases blood pressure, abdominal fat and blood coagulability, and worsens insulin resistance. All of these put a strain on the heart and blood vessels. If you have a family history, mention it at your visit.
Does diet help?
A study of post-menopausal women linked higher dietary magnesium intake with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. Diet is one of the topics worth discussing at your visit, together with lipids and blood sugar.
I have bleeding after menopause. What should I do?
Bleeding after menopause needs investigation, since finding the cause of such bleeding is one of the indications for hysteroscopy. Contact the practice so we can arrange a visit soon.