MENOPAUSE is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It is a significant transition that affects physical, emotional, and mental health. Understanding menopause and its impact can empower women to navigate this stage of life with greater ease and confidence.
WHAT IS MENOPAUSE?
Menopause occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop releasing eggs, leading to a decline in estrogen and progesterone production. Officially, menopause is diagnosed when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. While the average age of menopause is 51, it can occur anywhere between the late 40s and early 50s, with some experiencing it earlier or later.
STAGES OF MENOPAUSE
PERIMENOPAUSE: This transitional phase can begin several years before menopause. Hormone levels fluctuate, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.
MENOPAUSE: This is marked by the cessation of menstruation for 12 months. Symptoms may intensify as hormone levels drop significantly.
POSTMENOPAUSE: The years following menopause, when symptoms often diminish, but the risk of health issues like osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease increases.
COMMON SYMPTOMS
Sudden feelings of heat are often accompanied by sweating and flushing. Difficulty falling or staying asleep, often due to night sweats or anxiety. Irritability, depression, or anxiety may occur due to hormonal shifts. Reduced estrogen can lead to thinning and dryness of vaginal tissues. Changes in hormone levels may affect sexual desire. Some women report memory lapses or difficulty concentrating.
MANAGING MENOPAUSE
While menopause is inevitable, its symptoms and associated risks can be managed effectively through lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and supportive care.
Emphasize calcium and vitamin D-rich foods to support bone health. Limit processed foods and sugar. Engage in weight-bearing and cardiovascular exercises to improve bone density and heart health. Practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help alleviate mood swings and anxiety.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can alleviate severe symptoms by supplementing estrogen and progesterone. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or other treatments may help manage specific symptoms.
Menopause is a natural life stage that can bring both challenges and opportunities for self-discovery. With the right tools and support, women can embrace this transition, prioritising their health and well-being.
