Postmenopause: What It Means and Why It Matters 

by: Dr. Mary Knudsen ND, MSCP

When most women think of menopause, they’re actually talking about postmenopause—the stage after your final period. Technically, menopause is just one day: the 12-month anniversary of your last menstrual cycle. The day after that? You’re officially in postmenopause—and will be for the rest of your life. 

So what does that mean for your health, your hormones, and your long-term health?  

 
The Hormone Landscape After Menopause 

By the time you reach postmenopause, your ovaries no longer produce estrogen and progesterone. This isn’t just about hot flashes and night sweats—though those may still linger for some. These hormones have ripple effects throughout the body: 

• Bone health – Lower estrogen speeds up bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. 

• Cardiovascular health – Estrogen once offered some protection against heart disease. After menopause, that risk rises. 

• Brain and mood – Some women notice ongoing changes in memory, focus, or mood linked to the long-term hormonal shifts. 

• Vaginal and urinary health – Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is one of the most under-recognized issues after menopause. It affects up to 85% of women, yet only about 10% receive treatment. Unlike hot flashes, which usually improve with time, vaginal and urinary symptoms often get progressively worse without treatment. 

 
Common Questions About Postmenopause 

“Will my symptoms ever end?” 
For many women, vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats) ease over time. But GSM—vaginal dryness, pain with intimacy, or urinary changes—tends to worsen if left untreated. And despite how common these issues are, only a small fraction of women (about 1 in 10) ever get treatment. That means most are silently struggling when they don’t have to. The silver lining? There are effective, safe, and accessible solutions—from vaginal moisturizers and lubricants to local vaginal estrogen and other therapies. 

“Can I still benefit from hormone therapy?” 
Yes—depending on your age, time since menopause, and your health history. Hormone therapy isn’t just about symptom relief; it can also help protect bones and improve quality of life for many women. It’s always a personal decision, made with a trusted healthcare provider. 

 
Thriving Beyond Menopause 

Here’s the truth: postmenopause is not the end of your story—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. You’ve got decades ahead to live strong, vibrant, and connected to your body. With the right support, this phase can be about power, clarity, and freedom. 

 
Take-Home Tips for Postmenopause 

• Strength-train to protect your bones and muscles. 

• Prioritize protein and fiber to keep metabolism and digestion on track. 

• Support your vaginal health—don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Moisturizers, lubricants, or vaginal estrogen can make all the difference. 

• Check your heart health—know your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. 

• Find your community—because thriving is easier (and way more fun) when you’re not doing it alone.