Understanding Menopause: Brain and Body Transitions Explained by Dr. Maria Tulpan

Understanding Menopause: Brain and Body Transitions Explained by Dr. Maria Tulpan

“Menopause does not only mean the end of fertility, but also a period of transition – both for the brain and for the whole body” draws attention endocrinologist Dr. Maria Tulpan.

” We endocrinologists call it a neuroendocrine transition period because estrogen has a huge influence on the brain and many other organs in our body. This “reset” involves a reorganization of the brain and metabolism during perimenopause and menopause,” Dr. Tulpan explained in the dedicated webinar World Menopause Day.

The webinar organized on October 18 by Caspa.ro – Community of Patient Associations with the support of the partner Vitavea Sante it festively marked the international day dedicated to menopause and was the moment of open discussion between patients and specialists and clarification of all the unknowns regarding menopause.

What changes in menopause

Dr. Maria Tulpan explained what are the main changes in the body during menopause: “During perimenopause, before the end of the menstrual cycle, a drastic decrease in progesterone and estrogen is observed. Progesterone is the first hormone to decline during this period, and many women begin to notice, around the age of 40, that the menstrual cycle shortens. It also appears one of the first symptoms: insomnia. In addition, estrogen levels fluctuate, sometimes even higher than premenopausal, which can worsen symptoms.”

Many of the symptoms of menopause are neurological in naturetherefore, many women first go to a neurologist, ENT specialist or cardiologist, before consulting a gynecologist or endocrinologist.

Common symptoms include:

  • insomnia,
  • vasomotor hot flashes,
  • night sweats,
  • anxiety,
  • depression and
  • panic attacks.

All these symptoms are caused by the decrease in estrogen levels.

Dr. Tulpan points out that “it is important to know that during this period the foundations of chronic diseases are laid, such as osteoporosis, sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass), obesity, type II diabetes, atherosclerosis and hypertension.”

A healthy lifestyle should be adopted at any age, but this transitional period is critical for a woman’s health, as all negative factors are accentuated and evolve more rapidly. Therefore, periodic check-ups and discussion with the doctor are very important, and they can significantly contribute to improving the health of any menopausal woman.

” We need to know ourselves and the metabolic risks, because during this period the foundations of our future health are laid. It’s a shame not to live as beautifully and healthily as possible!” said Dr. Maria Tulpan at the end of her intervention in the webinar.

About World Menopause Day and Manhae Menopause

The webinar I scored World Menopause Day it’s a project Manhae Menopause by Vitavea Santeimplemented by People and Companies through the platforms Caspa.ro – Community of Patient Associations and EventsMax.ro.

The Manhaé range of natural supplements is manufactured in France by Havea Group. With 350 million euros in turnover and over 200,000 products sold every day, in over 70 countries, Havea is the European leader in the production of natural food supplements. In Romania, the Manhaé range can be found in the main physical and online pharmacy chains, as well as on its own website, www.vitavea.ro.

The Dynamic Shift of Menopause: Not the End but a New Beginning!

Ah, menopause! That magical time in a woman’s life when menstruation decides to pack its bags and leave, much like your last ex, but without any fireworks. Seriously though, menopause isn’t just about saying goodbye to fertility—it’s a grand reorganization of your internal ecosystem! As highlighted by Dr. Maria Tulpan, an endocrinologist, it’s what she aptly calls a “neuroendocrine transition period.” Doesn’t that sound fancy? I can just hear the brain saying: “Excuse me, hormones, can we have a little chat?”

The Great Hormonal Conspiracy

Dr. Tulpan sheds light on the pivotal changes women experience, which can sometimes feel like a bad plot twist in a soap opera. One moment you’re cycling with your mates, and the next, progesterone and estrogen decide to make a hasty exit from the party—leaving behind a bunch of confused neurons. Many women start noticing this shift around the age of 40. You say, “What’s up with this shorter menstrual cycle?” And then, BAM—insomnia crashes the party like a bouncer who doesn’t want you in after midnight!

Let’s talk about those delightful symptoms, shall we? Here’s a brief but important list that’s sure to keep the laughter (or tears) flowing:

  • Insomnia (oh, the sweet, sweet irony!),
  • Vasomotor hot flashes (the body’s version of spontaneous combustion),
  • Night sweats (looking like you just ran a marathon—at 3 a.m.),
  • Anxiety (a slight uptick in nerves, akin to waiting for a cab that won’t arrive),
  • Depression (like finding out the last donut was a fake), and
  • Panic attacks (the kind you weren’t expecting, like your in-laws showing up unannounced).

All these symptoms stem from the sneaky drop in estrogen levels. Yes, estrogen, the hormone that was having a lovely time holding everything together, is now taking an extended vacation, leaving behind chaos and confusion!

The Foundation of Future Health

Dr. Tulpan doesn’t just stop at the *oh-so-glamorous symptoms*; she warns about the serious business: “During this period, the foundations of chronic diseases are laid.” What does that mean? Think of chronic conditions like osteoporosis and type II diabetes gearing up for a not-so-pleasant surprise party in the future. All the negative factors are accelerated, which is as exciting as it sounds. Do you feel like you’re on the fast track to a healthcare episode of ‘Survivor’? I thought so!

So, what’s the takeaway? Dr. Tulpan emphasizes the importance of periodic check-ups and discussions with your doctor. Health isn’t a one-size-fits-all but rather a custom-fit dress—not always flattering but always necessary. It’s a critical period for a woman’s health. After all, you don’t want to end up like a forgotten book on the shelf, gathering dust, do you?

World Menopause Day: A Celebration of Knowledge

Let’s not forget that this isn’t just a doom-and-gloom scenario! Recent discussions during the World Menopause Day showed how vital conversations are during this time. Thanks to organizations like Caspa.ro and partners such as Vitavea Sante, women had a space to discuss their experiences openly. It’s like a support group but with less crying and more “I feel you, sister!” moments.

With ranges like Manhae Menopause, tailored supplements manufactured in France by Havea Group, women no longer have to navigate this transitional phase alone. You can now equip yourself for this “reset” period in style!

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, menopause is not the end but rather a resilient metamorphosis. So let’s face it head-on—with some humor, a sprinkle of sass, and a good dose of self-care. Remember what Dr. Tulpan wisely says, “It’s a shame not to live as beautifully and healthily as possible!” If that’s not an inspirational mantra for navigating menopause, I don’t know what is!

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