Reading Duration: 7 minutes

Embracing Your Menopause Journey

 

When it comes to menopause, there is no one-size-fits-all. Women begin and go through their menopause journey at different ages, and the experiences can vary widely. Understanding where you are in this phase of life is essential for making informed decisions about your health and well-being. At Agile Life Sciences, we are developing MenoGuide, a ground-breaking development designed to provide insights into your menopause Journey. MenoGuide will enable you and your healthcare professional to tailor a treatment plan that fits your specific needs.

 

Find out more about Agile Life Sciences and our commitment to women’s health here.

 

Understanding Menopause

 

What is Menopause?

 

menstrual period - menopause

 

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. It’s diagnosed after you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual period. Though menopause is a natural biological process, the physical symptoms – such as hot flashes, night sweats, and emotional symptoms – can disrupt sleep, sap your energy, and affect your emotional health. Understanding and managing these symptoms is important to navigating the menopause journey.

 

Learn more about the symptoms and stages of menopause according to the NHS here.

 

The Menopause Journey: Stages and Symptoms

 

stages of menopause - menopause stages

The menopause journey typically begins with peri-menopause, when the ovaries gradually begin to produce less oestrogen. It usually starts in a woman’s 40s but can begin in the 30s as well. Peri-menopause lasts up until menopause, the point when the ovaries stop releasing eggs.

After you’ve gone through 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, you’ve officially reached menopause. Post-menopause refers to the years after menopause has occurred. Every woman’s menopause journey is unique, and the duration and severity of symptoms can vary.

 

When Does Menopause Start?

 

 

Menopause time

 

Menopause usually occurs between ages 45 and 55, with the average age being 51 in the UK. However, early menopause can happen before age 40 for various reasons such as genetic factors, medical procedures, or health conditions.

Women must recognise the signs of menopause, especially if it’s occurring early, as it can have implications on bone health, cardiovascular health, and more.

 

Introducing MenoGuide: A New Era in Menopause Testing

 

Menoguide Test Kit - Menopause test kit

 

Agile Life Sciences is revolutionising the way women navigate their menopause Journey with MenoGuide. Our innovative menopause test, currently in development, will indicate where you are in your menopause journey, empowering you and your healthcare professional with critical information to develop an individualised treatment plan.

MenoGuide measures the vaginal microbiome from a urine sample, then using state-of-the-art next generation sequencing, evaluates the bacteria within the vaginal microbiome to species level. The ratio and abundance of the individual bacteria helps indicate where a woman is on her menopause journey.

Stay updated on Menoguide and be among the first to know when it launches!

 

Taking Control of Your Menopause Journey

 

Menopause diagnosis

 

Knowledge is power when it comes to your health. Understanding where you are in your menopause journey is invaluable for making informed decisions and collaborating with healthcare professionals.

When MenoGuide is available, it will be an essential tool for women looking to gain insights into their menopause journey. In the meantime, talking to your doctor and educating yourself about menopause is highly recommended.

 

Here are some tips you can take with you to your next appointment to discuss menopause with your healthcare professional.

 

Conclusion: Your Journey, Your Health

 

Menopause is a natural part of ageing, but it’s also a deeply individual experience. With MenoGuide, Agile Life Sciences is at the forefront of providing women with the tools they need to navigate their menopause journey with confidence and support. Your menopause journey is uniquely yours, and with the right information and care, you can make it a positive and empowering experience.

Stay tuned for the launch of MenoGuide, and take control of your menopause journey.

 

Woman's Journey

 

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