If I’ve already gone through menopause, is there any medical evidence to show I can go through menopause again?

 

Answer:

 

There has been no research found to show that women can go through menopause a second time. The symptoms of menopause are caused by an imbalance of hormones being produced by the ovaries during menopause. The symptoms can come and go throughout the menopausal stage, but is defined as being over when menstruation has stopped for a period of 12 months or longer. Once this occurs, it isn’t possible to go through menopause again. Estrogen hormones will remain low but balance out again after menopause and the symptoms cease.

 

However, sometimes other things can cause menopausal-like symptoms after menopause. Endometriosis is one condition that can cause unpleasant symptoms that last after menopause. Endometriosis occurs when a lining, similar to the lining of the uterus, builds up outside the uterus on the walls of the abdominal cavity, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, and other organs in close proximity. Similar to menstruation, this lining also sheds once a month, but instead of exiting through the vagina, it collects in the body. Endometriosis is fed by estrogen hormones, but even after menopause, the ovaries continue to produce a small amount of estrogen which can make these symptoms continue past the change.

 

The symptoms caused by endometriosis include bad abdominal cramps, pain during sexual intercourse, and gastrointestinal problems. This disorder typically develops before menopause. If you’ve never been diagnosed with this condition your symptoms probably have another source of origin.

 

Sometimes women who are on hormone replacement therapy post menopause may still experience some symptoms if their hormone levels are still imbalanced. Essentially, all symptoms related to menopause should stop when menopause is over. Some women experience other health problems that are related to the low amount of estrogen hormone found after menopause. Two of the most common postmenopausal health problems are osteoporosis and an elevated risk of heart disease. Note that menopause itself does not pose any health risks.

 

If you have any serious concerns make sure you see your doctor or a gynecologist. They should be able to address your concerns. If you’re experiencing any postmenopausal bleeding you should see a doctor.