Menopause, also known as the cessation (end) of menstruation
This marks a time when the menstrual cycle, which has been functioning for many years, stops. This is referred to as menopause.

Generally, by the age of 50, most women experience menopause. However, some women may experience menopause a few years earlier.

Before menopause occurs, hormonal changes take place over a period of one or two years. This period is called perimenopause.

Menopause is considered to have occurred when a woman has gone a full year without menstruating.

Symptoms during menopause:

* Hot flashes with sweating, high heart rate
* Changes in menstrual cycles (either excessive or reduced blood flow, irregular blood flow)
* Joint, limb and body aches
* Mental distress, easy agitation, depression, constant sadness
* Difficulty sleeping
* Apathy and difficulty in sexual relations
* In addition to these, during menopause, incontinence, frequent urination, and urinary tract infections may occur.

All of these can be treated. Seek guidance from a nearby healthcare provider.

Subfertility:

A couple who has not conceived after 12 months or more of consistent and regular unprotected sexual intercourse (3-4 times a week) is referred to as a subfertile couple.

A couple that has never conceived before is referred to as a primary subfertile couple, while a couple who had conceived previously is referred to as a secondary subfertile couple.

The causes of subfertility may occur at birth or later in life.

Subfertility can have various causes. Among them, there are reasons related to the male, reasons related to the female, as well as factors that cannot be traced to either party, where the cause remains unknown.

With technological advancement, there are successful treatment methods for subfertility, and it is essential to continue the treatment without interruption. If subfertility is suspected, it is advisable to seek guidance from a nearby healthcare provider.

Cervical Cancer

A type of cancer that occurs in the cervix, which is located at the end of the vagina below the uterus.

Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to genital warts and may cause cancer.

For example, HPV strains 6 and 11 are associated with genital warts, while strains 16 and 18 are linked to cancer and more severe health conditions.

There is no cure for the human papillomavirus (HPV).
There are vaccines available to prevent infection by the virus strains that cause the cancer. In Sri Lanka, through the national vaccination program, all female children starting from grade 6 are given this vaccine. Administering this vaccine before the first sexual encounter can effectively prevent cervical cancer.

Early detection of the human papillomavirus (HPV) can help prevent serious health conditions. Therefore, it is important for sexually active women to be referred for a Pap test. In Sri Lanka, sexually active women over the age of 35 can receive a Pap test for free at the nearest (Suwanari) Clinic of the Regional Health Medical Office

However, any sexually active woman of any age can undergo this test at the clinics of the Sri Lanka Family Planning Association or private clinics/hospitals.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. The muscle tissue in the breasts, when not functioning properly, causes the cancer cells to grow. If the cancer is not detected and treated, it can spread to other parts of the body. While breast cancer is more common in women, it can also develop in men.

The most common symptom of breast cancer is the appearance of lumps or swelling in the breasts. The method for performing a breast examination at home is shown below.

You can also get a breast examination at a nearby health center. Women over 35 years old should undergo clinical breast examinations.

For women over 40 years old, under medical advice, a mammogram (an X-ray of the breasts) can be done at private clinics.

Health conditions related to the menstrual cycle

Dysmenorrhea: Dysmenorrhea refers to severe menstrual pain and is a common condition. Primary dysmenorrhea is typical menstrual pain, while secondary dysmenorrhea can be caused by health issues such as endometriosis or fibroids. Pain relievers, applying heat, and changing lifestyle patterns can help manage dysmenorrhea.

Menorrhagia: Excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding is referred to as menorrhagia. This condition can lead to anemia and excessive fatigue. It can be caused by hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, or other conditions. Treatments for menorrhagia include medication, hormonal therapy, or surgery.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): PMS refers to the mood changes, bloating, breast pain, and irritability that can occur during the days leading up to menstruation. A variety of physical and emotional symptoms can occur during PMS. Changing lifestyle habits, choosing appropriate foods, and using medications can help alleviate PMS symptoms.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal-related health condition that can affect the menstrual cycle. It can lead to irregular periods, heavy bleeding, and fertility problems. Lifestyle changes and medication can help manage the symptoms of PCOS.

Endometriosis: Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the endometrium (lining of the uterus) grows outside of the uterus. It can cause severe pain, excessive bleeding, and fertility issues. Medications are available for treatment, and in some cases, surgery may also be required.

Amenorrhea: Amenorrhea refers to the cessation of menstruation due to factors such as excessive stress, intense exercise, low body weight, or hormonal imbalance. It has various causes, and treatment depends on the underlying cause.

Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): POI is the loss of ovarian function before the age of 40, which can lead to irregular or complete cessation of periods and infertility. Hormonal replacement therapy is typically used as a treatment for this condition.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): TSS is a bacterial infection caused by prolonged use of a tampon with high absorbency. It can lead to fever, rash, and failure of internal organ functions. Using tampons with proper absorbency and changing them regularly reduces the risk of TSS.

If severe or abnormal symptoms occur during menstruation or menopause, it is essential to seek medical advice. Regular checkups with healthcare providers help identify and manage complications related to menstruation and menopause, and understanding these health conditions and giving proper attention can ensure one’s own and others reproductive health and overall well-being. You do not have to suffer silently with issues related to menstruation .

These services can be obtained at any government hospital.