Women’s health after 40: changes and prevention

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Women’s health after 40: changes and prevention

I. Physiological changes after 40 years:

After 40 years, the female body comes in a period characterized by gradual, but significant physiological changes. These changes are due to a decrease in the production of sex hormones, in particular estrogen and progesterone, which is a natural stage of reproductive aging. However, the understanding of these processes and the adoption of appropriate preventive measures allow you to maintain health and quality of life.

A. Hormonal changes:

  • Reduced estrogen levels: Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining bone health, cardiovascular system, skin and mucous membranes. Reducing its level leads to a number of changes:
    • Menstrual cycle disorders: The cycle becomes irregular, menstruation can be more plentiful or scarce, the interval between them increases. Ultimately, a menopause occurs – a complete cessation of menstruation.
    • Vasomotor symptoms: “Tucks” heat, night sweating, chills. These symptoms are associated with the instability of vascular tone and can significantly affect the quality of life.
    • Changes in the urogenital tract: A decrease in the elasticity and moisture of the vagina, which leads to dryness, itching, discomfort during intercourse (dyspareunia) and increased susceptibility to urinary tract infections.
    • Reduced bone density (osteoporosis): Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining bone strength. Its deficiency increases the risk of osteoporosis and, as a result, fractures.
    • Mood changes and cognitive functions: Irritability, anxiety, depression, worsening memory and concentration of attention. The role of estrogen in the regulation of neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine) can explain these changes.
    • Changes in the skin and hair: Reducing the elasticity of the skin, the appearance of wrinkles, dryness, thinning and hair loss.
  • Reducing the level of progesterone: Progesterone plays an important role in the preparation of the endometrium (uterine mucous membrane) for implantation of the embryo and maintaining pregnancy. Reducing its level also promotes menstrual violations.
  • Changing the level of androgens: Despite the fact that estrogen and progesterone are reduced, the level of androgens (male sex hormones) produced by the adrenal glands may remain relatively stable or even slightly increased. This can lead to the appearance of symptoms such as the growth of hair on the face (hirsutism) and acne.

B. Changes in the cardiovascular system:

A decrease in estrogen levels has a negative effect on the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (SVD).

  • Improving cholesterol levels: The level of “good” cholesterol (HDL) is reduced and the level of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) increases, which contributes to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the vessels.
  • Improving blood pressure: Estrogen contributes to the expansion of blood vessels and maintaining normal blood pressure. Its deficiency can lead to an increase in blood pressure (hypertension).
  • Increasing the risk of developing coronary heart disease (IBS) and stroke: Atherosclerosis, hypertension and other risk factors of the SSZ related to estrogen deficiency increase the likelihood of the development of coronary heart disease (angina pectoris, myocardial infarction) and stroke.

C. Changes in the musculoskeletal system:

  • Reduced bone density (osteoporosis): As already mentioned, estrogen deficiency leads to a decrease in calcium content in the bones and a decrease in their strength, increasing the risk of fractures, especially vertebrae, hips and forearms.
  • Reducing muscle mass (sarcopenia): With age, natural loss of muscle mass and strength occurs. This process can be accelerated by estrogen deficiency and a sedentary lifestyle.
  • Joint pain (arthralgia): Hormonal changes can contribute to the development of inflammatory processes in the joints, causing pain and stiffness.

D. Changes in metabolism:

  • Slow down metabolism: With age, the metabolic rate decreases, which makes it difficult to maintain normal weight.
  • Weight gain and redistribution of adipose tissue: A decrease in estrogen levels can lead to weight gain, especially in the abdomen (abdominal obesity). Abdominal obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
  • Sensitivity to insulin: The risk of developing insulin resistance increases, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.

E. Psychological and emotional changes:

  • Mood changes: Irritability, anxiety, depression, mood swings.
  • Sleep problems: Insomnia, frequent night awakening.
  • Libido decrease: Decrease in sex drive.
  • Memory deterioration and concentration: Forgetfulness, distraction.

II. Risk factors for women’s health after 40 years:

In addition to natural physiological changes, there are risk factors that can negatively affect women’s health after 40 years. The elimination or minimization of these risk factors can significantly improve the quality of life and prevent the development of many diseases.

A. Factors associated with the way of life:

  • Inal meals: Deficiency of vitamins and minerals, excess fat, sugar and processed products.
  • Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity.
  • Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, osteoporosis and other diseases.
  • Alcohol abuse: Excessive drinking of alcohol can lead to diseases of the liver, heart and increases the risk of breast cancer.
  • Chronic stress: Stress can have a negative impact on the immune system, cardiovascular system and mental health.
  • Lack of sleep: Insufficient sleep can lead to metabolic disorders, mood worsening and reducing immunity.

B. Medical factors:

  • Heredity: Family history of cardiovascular diseases, breast cancer, osteoporosis and other diseases.
  • Passed diseases: Some diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension and autoimmune diseases, increase the risk of other diseases.
  • Taking drugs: Long -term intake of certain drugs can have a negative effect on health.
  • Lack of regular medical examinations: Insufficient attention to preventive examinations and screening.

III. Prevention of diseases and maintaining health after 40 years:

Prevention of diseases and maintaining health after 40 years is a comprehensive process, including a change in lifestyle, regular medical examinations and, if necessary, drug therapy.

A. Change in lifestyle:

  • Balanced nutrition:
    • Increase in fruits and vegetable consumptions: At least 5 servings per day. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber.
    • The choice of whole grain products: Whole grain bread, pasta, brown rice. All -grain products contain more fiber than refined products.
    • The use of low -fat sources of protein: Chicken, fish, legumes, tofu. Protein is necessary to maintain muscle mass and bone health.
    • Limiting the consumption of saturated and trans fats: Frying products, fast food, processed products. Saturated and trans fats increase the level of “bad” cholesterol.
    • Limiting sugar and salt consumption: Sweet drinks, sweets, pastries, salty snacks. Excess sugar and salt can lead to weight gain, increase blood pressure and other health problems.
    • Sufficient consumption of calcium and vitamin D: Calcium and vitamin D are necessary to maintain bone health. Good sources of calcium are dairy products, green leafy vegetables and enriched products. Vitamin D is produced in the skin under the influence of sunlight and is contained in some products, such as oily fish and egg yolks. In the cold season, it may be necessary to take vitamin D.
    • The use of enough water: At least 8 glasses of water per day. Water is necessary for the normal functioning of all organs and systems.
  • Regular physical activity:
    • Aerobic exercises: Walking, running, swimming, cycling. At least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of high intensity per week. Aerobic exercises improve the health of the cardiovascular system and help to control weight.
    • Power exercises: Lift weights, exercises with your own weight. At least 2 times a week. Power exercises help increase muscle mass and strength, as well as improve bone health.
    • Flexibility exercises: Stretching, yoga, Pilates. Flexibility exercises improve joint mobility and help prevent injuries.
  • Refusal of smoking and abuse of alcohol:
  • Stress management:
    • Regular classes of relaxation techniques: Meditation, yoga, tai-chi.
    • Conducting time in nature:
    • Communication with friends and family:
    • Hobbies and hobbies:
  • Sufficient sleep: 7-8 hours a day.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight: The body mass index (BMI) in the range of 18.5-24.9.

B. Regular medical examinations and screening:

  • Annual gynecological examination: Includes the examination of the mammary glands, the capture of the papanicolau smear (PAP test) to detect cervical cancer and examination for other diseases.
  • Mammography: Breast cancer screening. It is recommended to start from the age of 40, and then repeat every 1-2 years, depending on risk factors.
  • Colonoscopy: Screening for colon cancer. It is recommended to start from the age of 45 and repeat every 10 years, or more often, depending on risk factors.
  • Blood test for cholesterol: Regular measurement of cholesterol levels for assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Measurement of blood pressure: Regular measurement of blood pressure to detect hypertension.
  • Blood test for sugar: Type 2 diabetes screening.
  • Dencitometry: Measurement of bone density to detect osteoporosis. It is recommended that women over 65, as well as women in menopause with risk factors for the development of osteoporosis.
  • Dermatologist’s inspection: Regular skin examination to detect skin cancer.
  • Occupying okulist: Regular eye examination to identify glaucoma, cataracts and other eyes of the eyes.

C. Drug therapy:

In some cases, in addition to changing lifestyle, drug therapy may be required for the prevention and treatment of diseases.

  • Hormonal therapy (GT): GT can be used to alleviate the symptoms of menopause, such as flare, night sweating and dry vagina. However, GT has risks, and its application should be carefully discussed with a doctor. It is important to use the minimum effective dose and duration of treatment.
  • Calcium and vitamin D: For the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
  • Preparations for reduction of cholesterol (statins): To reduce cholesterol and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Preparations for reducing blood pressure (antihypertensive drugs): For the treatment of hypertension.
  • Antidepressants: For the treatment of depression and anxiety.
  • Vaginal lubricants and moisturizers: To relieve dry vagina.

IV. Specific aspects of women’s health after 40 years:

A. The health of the mammary glands:

  • Self -examination of the mammary glands: Regular self -examination of the mammary glands to detect seals, changes in shape or discharge from the nipples.
  • Mammography: Regular screening for breast cancer.
  • Ultrasound of the mammary glands: It can be used as an additional diagnostic method, especially in women with dense breast tissue.

B. Health of the reproductive system:

  • Contraception: Even after 40 years, if pregnancy is not planned, it is necessary to use contraception until a menopause occurs.
  • Uterine fibroids: Benign uterine tumors, which are often found in women after 40 years. Abundant menstruation, abdominal pain and other symptoms can cause. Treatment depends on the size and location of myoma, as well as on the symptoms.
  • Endometrios: A disease in which a tissue similar to the uterine mucosa (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. It can cause abdominal pain, infertility and other symptoms.
  • Cervical cancer: Regular screening (PAP test) to detect cervical cancer.
  • Endometry cancer: The risk of developing endometrial cancer increases after menopause.

C. Health of the urinary system:

  • Urinary tract infections (IMP): Dry vagina after menopause increases the risk of imp.
  • Urine incontinence: Involuntary urine selection. It can be caused by the weakness of the pelvic floor muscles, hormonal changes or other factors. Kegel exercises can help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor.

D. Mental Health:

  • Depression and anxiety: Hormonal changes and stress can contribute to the development of depression and anxiety. It is important to seek help from a specialist if you experience these symptoms.
  • Sleep problems: Insomnia and other sleep problems can be caused by hormonal changes, stress or other factors. It is important to observe sleep hygiene and, if necessary, seek help from a specialist.

V. Alternative and complementary treatment methods:

Some women use alternative and complementary treatment methods to facilitate the symptoms of menopause and maintain health. It is important to remember that the effectiveness and safety of these methods is not always proven, and before their use it is necessary to consult a doctor.

  • Phytoestrogens: Plant compounds that have an estrogen-like effect. Contained in soy, red clover and other products. They can help alleviate the ejes and other symptoms of menopause.
  • Acupuncture: The method of traditional Chinese medicine, in which thin needles are inserted into certain points on the body. It can help alleviate the ebels, headaches and other symptoms.
  • Yoga and meditation: They can help reduce stress and improve mood.
  • Homeopathy: The treatment system based on the principle of “like this treats this.”

VI. The importance of psychological support:

The period after 40 years can be difficult for women, both physically and emotionally. It is important to have support from the family, friends and specialists.

  • Communication with other women: Exchange of experience and support from other women experiencing similar changes.
  • Consultations with a psychologist or psychotherapist: Help in overcoming emotional difficulties and adaptation to changes.
  • Support groups: Participation in support groups for women in menopause.

VII. Final recommendations:

  • Remember that the changes taking place in your body after 40 years are a natural process.
  • Feel free to see a doctor if you are worried about any symptoms.
  • Take an active part in maintaining your health, follow the recommendations for a change in lifestyle and regularly undergo medical examinations.
  • Treat yourself with love and care, devote time to your hobbies and interests.
  • Do not forget about the importance of psychological support and communication with other women.

Following these recommendations, women after 40 years can maintain health, good health and high quality life for many years.

VIII. Detailed consideration of individual aspects:

A. more detailed about osteoporosis:

Osteoporosis is a systemic disease of the skeleton characterized by a decrease in bone mass and a violation of its microarchitectonics, which leads to increased fragility of bones and an increase in the risk of fractures. In women after 40 years, the risk of osteoporosis is significantly increased due to a decrease in estrogen levels.

  • Pathogenesis of osteoporosis: Estrogen plays an important role in the regulation of bone exchange. It stimulates the activity of osteoblasts (cells that form bone tissue) and inhibits the activity of osteoclasts (cells that destroy bone tissue). A decrease in estrogen levels leads to a violation of the balance between the formation and destruction of bone tissue, which leads to a decrease in its mass and strength.
  • Risk factors of osteoporosis:
    • Women’s floor: Women are more susceptible to osteoporosis than men, due to the lower mass of bone tissue and its faster decrease after menopause.
    • Age: The risk of osteoporosis increases with age.
    • Early menopause: The menopause, which has occurred up to 45 years, increases the risk of osteoporosis.
    • Heredity: Family history of osteoporosis.
    • Low body weight: People with a low body weight have a smaller mass of bone tissue.
    • Insufficient consumption of calcium and vitamin D: Calcium and vitamin D are necessary to maintain bone health.
    • Sedentary lifestyle: Physical activity stimulates the formation of bone tissue.
    • Smoking: Smoking reduces bone density.
    • Alcohol abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a decrease in bone density.
    • Taking some drugs: Corticosteroids, anticonvulsants and other drugs can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
    • Some diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease and other diseases can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
  • Diagnosis of osteoporosis:
    • Dencitometry: Measurement of bone density using x -ray absorption (DEXA). Dexa scan is the “gold standard” for the diagnosis of osteoporosis.
    • Risk assessment of fractures: Various scales and calculators (for example, Frax) are used to assess the risk of fractures based on various risk factors.
  • Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis:
    • Sufficient consumption of calcium and vitamin D: The recommended daily dose of calcium for women over 50 is 1200 mg, vitamin D is 800-1000 IU.
    • Regular physical activity: Exercises with weights and equilibrium exercises.
    • Refusal of smoking and abuse of alcohol:
    • Drug therapy:
      • Bisphosphonates: Preparations that slow down the destruction of bone tissue.
      • Denosumab: Monoclonal antibody, which also slows down the destruction of bone tissue.
      • Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SMER): Preparations that have an estrogen-like effect on the bone.
      • Paratyroid hormone (PTG): A drug that stimulates the formation of bone tissue.
      • Calcitonin: A drug that slows down the destruction of bone tissue.

B. Read more about cardiovascular diseases:

Cardiovascular diseases (SVD) are the main cause of the death of women around the world. A decrease in estrogen levels after menopause increases the risk of CVD.

  • SSZ risk factors:
    • Age: The risk of the SPA increases with age.
    • SSZ family history: The presence of SSZ in close relatives.
    • High blood pressure (hypertension):
    • High cholesterol level: The high level of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and the low level of “good” cholesterol (HDL).
    • Diabetes:
    • Smoking:
    • Obesity:
    • Sedentary lifestyle:
    • Stress:
    • Inflammation:
    • Menopause: A decrease in estrogen levels after menopause increases the risk of CVD.
  • SSZ prevention:
    • Control of blood pressure: Maintaining blood pressure at a level below 120/80 mm Hg. Art.
    • Cholesterol level control: Reducing the level of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and an increase in the level of “good” cholesterol (HDL).
    • Blood sugar control: Maintaining blood sugar levels within normal limits.
    • Refusal of smoking:
    • Maintaining a healthy weight:
    • Regular physical activity:
    • Healthy nutrition:
    • Stress management:
    • Drug therapy: In some cases, it may be required to take drugs to reduce blood pressure, cholesterol or blood sugar.

C. more detailed about breast cancer:

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. Early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer significantly increase the chances of recovery.

  • Breast cancer risk factors:
    • Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age.
    • Family history of breast cancer: The presence of breast cancer in close relatives.
    • Genetic mutations: Mutations in the genes of BRCA1 and BRCA2.
    • Early beginning of menstruation:
    • Late menopause:
    • Lack of pregnancy or late first pregnancy:
    • Hormone replacement therapy:
    • Obesity:
    • Alcohol abuse:
    • Radiation:
  • Breast cancer screening:
    • Self -examination of the mammary glands: Regular self -examination of the mammary glands to detect seals, changes in shape or discharge from the nipples.
    • Clinical examination of the mammary glands: Inspection of the mammary glands by a doctor.
    • Mammography: X -ray examination of the mammary glands.
    • Ultrasound of the mammary glands: It can be used as an additional diagnostic method, especially in women with dense breast tissue.
    • MRI of the mammary glands: It can be used to screening women with a high risk of breast cancer.
  • Breast cancer treatment:
    • Surgical treatment: Removing the tumor.
    • Radiation therapy: Using radiation to destroy cancer cells.
    • Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to destroy cancer cells.
    • Hormonal therapy: The use of drugs to block the action of hormones that stimulate the growth of cancer cells.
    • Target therapy: The use of drugs that are aimed at specific molecules involved in the growth of cancer cells.

IX. Detailed consideration of hormonal therapy (GT):

Hormonal therapy (GT) is the use of hormonal drugs to alleviate the symptoms of menopause, such as flare, night sweating, dry vagina and others. GT can also have a positive effect on bone health and cardiovascular system. However, GT has risks, and its application should be carefully discussed with a doctor.

  • Types of GT:
    • Estrogen-monotherapy: It is used only in women who have removed the uterus.
    • Combined GT (estrogen and progesterone): It is used in women whose uterus is not removed. Progesterone is necessary to protect the endometrium from cancer.
    • Local estrogens: Creams, vaginal rings or tablets containing estrogen. Used to treat dry vagina.
  • Advantages of GT:
    • Relief symptoms of menopause: Tucks, night sweating, dry vagina, sleep disturbances, mood swings.
    • Prevention of osteoporosis:
    • Reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases (at the beginning of menopause):
  • RISKS GT:
    • Endometry cancer: In women whose uterus is not removed, estrogen-monotherapy increases the risk of endometrial cancer. Combined GT (estrogen and progesterone) reduces this risk.
    • Breast cancer: Long -term use of GT (more than 5 years) can slightly increase the risk of breast cancer.
    • Thromboembolic complications (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary thromboembolism): The risk of thromboembolic complications slightly increases when taking GT, especially in the first years of treatment.
    • Stroke: The risk of stroke slightly increases when taking GT.
  • Who is not recommended by the GT:
    • Women with breast cancer in history:
    • Women with history of endometrial cancer:
    • Women with a history of thromboembolic complications:
    • Women with uncontrolled hypertension:
    • Women with liver diseases:
    • Women with vaginal bleeding of unclear etiology:
  • Recommendations for the use of GT:
    • Start GT as soon as possible after the start of menopause:
    • Use the minimum effective dose:
    • Take GT for the minimum time:
    • Regularly undergo medical examinations:
    • Discuss all the advantages and risks of GT with a doctor:

X. The importance of a healthy lifestyle for the prevention of diseases in postmenopause.

A healthy lifestyle plays a critical role in the prevention of diseases and maintaining the health of women in postmenopausa. Proper nutrition, regular physical activity, rejection of bad habits and stress management can significantly improve the quality of life and reduce the risk of developing many diseases.

  • The effect of nutrition on health in postmenopause:

    • Maintaining bone health: Sufficient consumption of calcium and vitamin D is a key factor in the prevention of osteoporosis. Dairy products, green leafy vegetables and enriched products are good calcium sources. Vitamin D is produced in the skin under the influence of sunlight and is contained in some products, such as oily fish and egg yolks.
    • Weight control: A decrease in the rate of metabolism in postmenopause can lead to weight gain. It is important to adhere to a balanced diet with calorie restrictions and a sufficient amount of protein, fiber and healthy fats.
    • Prevention of cardiovascular diseases: The restriction of the consumption of saturated and trans fats, salt and sugar, as well as an increase in fruits, vegetables and whole grain products can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
    • Improving mood: Some products, such as fish, rich omega-3 fatty acids, can have a positive effect on the mood and reduce the risk of depression.

  • The role of physical activity in maintaining health in postmenopause:

    • Strengthening bones: Exercises with weights, such as walking, running and lifting weights, stimulate the formation of bone tissue and help prevent osteoporosis.
    • Increase in muscle mass: Power training helps increase muscle mass and strength, which are reduced with age.
    • Weight control: Physical activity helps to burn calories and maintain healthy weight.
    • Improving the cardiovascular system: Aerobic exercises, such as walking, running, swimming and cycling, improve the health of the cardiovascular system and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
    • Improving mood: Physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, which have a positive effect on the mood and reduce the risk of depression.

  • The influence of bad habitation on health in postmenopause:

    • Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, osteoporosis and other diseases.
    • Alcohol abuse: Excessive drinking of alcohol can lead to diseases of the liver, heart and increases the risk of breast cancer.

  • Stress management and its effect on health in postmenopausa:

    • Regular classes of relaxation techniques: Meditation, yoga, tai-chi.
    • Conducting time in nature:
    • Communication with friends and family:
    • Hobbies and hobbies:
    • Sufficient sleep: Insufficient sleep can lead to metabolic disorders, mood worsening and reducing immunity.

XI. Detailed guide for proper nutrition after 40 years:

Proper nutrition after 40 years plays a key role in maintaining health, energy and well -being. With age, metabolism slows down, hormonal changes affect the appetite and absorption of nutrients, therefore it is important to adjust the diet and focus on certain products and nutrients.

A. The basic principles of proper nutrition after 40:

  • Variety: Include a wide range of products from all food groups in your diet to

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