Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: I am 54 years old and have not had a menstrual period for three months. On the 14th of last month, it came again, and on November 4th, it came again. I went to the gynecology department of the district/county hospital for an examination, and after the color Doppler ultrasound, the doctor said the uterus is enlarged and recommended a D&C (dilation and curettage) for further diagnosis. Please advise on how I should be treated. Thank you.Doctor's answer:
The average age for modern women to experience menarche is 12.5 years old. The menopausal age typically falls between 45 and 55 years old, and its causes are related to various factors such as the aging of ovulation function and the reduction of estrogen secretion. Menopause is a universal process for every woman, during which both physiological and psychological changes occur. It is divided into three stages: premenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. The duration of menopause varies from person to person. So, at what age is menopause considered normal for women? Generally, it occurs around 40-45 years old, but this depends on individual circumstances.Although menopause is a clear marker of the menopausal transition, it is only one milestone and does not encompass the entire process. Before menopause, there is a phase of gradual ovarian decline, which lasts approximately 2 to 4 years, varying in length among individuals and is referred to as premenopause. After menopause, ovarian function becomes even weaker, but it does not disappear immediately. It typically takes 2 to 3 years, sometimes as long as 6 to 8 years, or even longer. Therefore, menopause is the sum of premenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.