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HIV and Menopause

HIV AND
MENOPAUSE


Menopause refers to twelve (12) consecutive months without experiencing a period, and usually occurs in women between the ages of 45 and 55.

Menopause is caused by the changes in two major hormones:

   Oestrogen;
   Progesterone.

THE FACTS ABOUT HIV AND MENOPAUSE

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Symptoms Of Menopause

The transition into menopause is known as perimenopause. Perimenopause is commonly known to entail symptoms such as hot flashes and mood disturbances. Some other symptoms include:

  • Chills

  • Night sweats

  • Slower metabolism

  • Sleeping problems

  • Weight gain

HIV And Menopause

Women living with HIV are more likely to experience perimenopause symptoms than women who do not have HIV. Those living with HIV may even experience earlier onset of menopause. Some research has also indicated that lower CD4 counts will be found in women with menopause.

Treatment

If you are experiencing perimenopause, here are a few methods you should use to take care of yourself:

  • Seek counseling support

  • Exercise

  • Stop smoking

  • Reduction in caffeinated drinks and alcohol

Please also take a look at the videos below. The first one explains menopause (Alila Medical Media, 2019) while the second examines the relationships between HIV and menopause.