Your Health After Menopause

The time of a woman's life following menopause is called postmenopause. During this time, many of the symptoms of menopause ease for most women. But as a result of several factors including a lower level of estrogen, postmenopausal women are at increased risk for a number of health conditions, such as osteoporosis and heart disease.

How Will I Know When I am Postmenopausal?

A woman is considered to be postmenopausal when she has not had her period for an entire year. Having your doctor measure your follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level is another way to determine if you are postmenopausal. FSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland (located at the base of the brain). Your FSH levels will dramatically rise as your ovaries begin to shut down; these levels are easily checked through one blood test.

What Changes Can I Expect During Postmenopause?

Once you hit the postmenopausal stage, you may regain your energy and feel emotionally normal once again, but you may also be at higher risk for certain conditions, such as osteoporosis and heart disease.

Medication and/or healthy lifestyle changes may reduce the risk of some of the conditions associated with menopause. Since every woman's risk is different, talk to your doctor to learn what steps you can take to reduce your individual risk.

Can I Get Pregnant Now That I am Postmenopausal?

The possibility of pregnancy usually disappears once you have been without your period for an entire year. But, continue using contraception until your doctor determines that you truly are postmenopausal, unless, of course, you are trying to get pregnant.

How Often Do I Need to See My Doctor?

Even if you are postmenopausal, getting regular check-ups and preventive screening tests such as pelvic exams, Pap smears and mammograms are among the most important things you can do for yourself. How often you need a check-up depends on your health history. Talk to your doctor to determine how often you should be seen.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Women's Health Center (2006).