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Solutions to Menopausal Symptoms
Menopause, in general, is a natural and unavoidable stage in a woman's life. It is a period when a woman stops menstruating and indicates the end of a woman's reproductive years. Menopause often happens in the late 40s or early 50s, and women often experience hormonal imbalances and other side effects. Menopause may be a universal experience, but each woman will not go through the same journey.
Keep reading and learn about Menopause and how you can breeze through this phase in a woman’s life.
Causes of Menopause
During Menopause, the ovaries will stop releasing eggs, and the body will produce less estrogen and progesterone. When this happens, menstrual periods will occur less and eventually stop suddenly or over time. The Menopause period is complete when you have not had your menstruation for a year.
Menopause can also be caused by a surgical procedure, such as removing the ovaries, which will cause a drop in estrogen levels. In some cases, Menopause may happen because of drugs for chemotherapy or HT (hormone therapy) for breast cancer called ‘treatment-induced menopause’ or due to some forms of surgery, called ‘surgical menopause’. Surgical Menopause is when surgery, rather than the natural aging process, causes a woman to go through menopause. Surgical Menopause occurs after an oophorectomy, a surgery that removes the ovaries. The ovaries are the main source of estrogen production in the female body.
Symptoms of Menopause
The symptoms of Menopause generally vary from one person to another, and some would experience such symptoms for up to 5 years (or longer in some cases). Some women may experience minor symptoms or discomfort, while more than 40% may unfortunately undergo a challenging phase.
Check out the following usual Menopause symptoms:
- Changes in Bone Health
Lower estrogen levels can lead to bone density loss, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Physical changes can also happen, such as hair loss or change in hair texture, and some women can also experience very dry skin, which can be irritating. - Changes in Libido
You may experience changes in arousal or sexual desire because of the irregular hormone levels. Some women may not have the desire to engage in intercourse or experience changes in their sexual satisfaction. - Difficulty Concentrating
Some women have reported experiencing cognitive function, concentration, and memory challenges during their Menopause stage. In some cases, women can feel less energetic and may experience mood swings. - Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are the most common Menopause symptom, and about 75% of women will experience brief and sudden increases in their body temperature. Hot flashes are described as swift and intense feelings of heat, which can lead to facial and upper body flushing, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. - Irregular Periods
As you approach Menopause, you will most likely experience irregular menstruation wherein your periods may be heavier, lighter, longer, or shorter, and the time between your menses may also change. - Night Sweats
Night sweats can be pretty similar to having hot flashes, but the condition occurs during sleep, which can cause disrupted sleep patterns. In addition, hormonal imbalance can affect sleep regulation, leading to fatigue or stress. - Urinary Changes
The decrease in estrogen levels during Menopause, in general, can change the urinary tract, leading to incontinence or frequent urination. - Vaginal Dryness
Fluctuation of estrogen levels can affect the vaginal tissues, leading to discomfort during intercourse, dryness, burning, and itching.
Menopause should not be a miserable phase.
Managing Menopause’s General symptoms can be a rollercoaster for some women, while some may go through this phase like a breeze. As previously mentioned, each experience is unique, so finding the best treatment or remedy that works for you is best! Menopause is a very unique experience for each woman and requires remedies specific to your personal needs.
Check out these tips to help you sail through Menopause with ease:
- Get Adequate and Quality Sleep
Create an environment that is conducive to sleeping. Stick to a sleep schedule and put away electronics at least one hour before bedtime. You can also adjust your thermostat settings to minimize hot flashes or night sweats. You can also take over-the-counter supplements to help you get a good night's sleep. (Speak to a physician). - Engage in Regular Exercise
Try light exercises such as walking or yoga, which can help manage your weight and alleviate some symptoms of Menopause General . Exercise can also help improve your mood and also help manage your stress levels. - Go for a Healthy Diet
Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet and limit alcohol, caffeine, processed foods, and sugary snacks. Choose food that is rich in vitamin D and calcium, which can be great for your bone health. Also, don't forget to stay hydrated! - Try Herbal Remedies
Some herbal supplements can help manage symptoms of Menopause General . Consult your doctor and ask if they have any supplements they recommend. Do not take supplements without a healthcare provider's approval since they may interact with whatever medication you are taking. Your pharmacist is also a good choice for advice. - Use the Right Lubricants
It is normal to not feel yourself during menopause, especially regarding sex. However, this does not mean you must stop engaging in sexual activity. It is best to have sex often to improve blood flow, which can help keep your vagina healthy. Ask your doctor or a pharmacist for any recommendations on vaginal lubricants, moisturizers, or even prescription pills to help lessen pain during sex or decrease dryness in your vagina. Addressing this early in your Menopause journey is important as some effects will be long-lasting if not remedied at the beginning. - Get Connected
Join support groups of women who are going through the same phase. Stay socially active and read materials to help you learn about Menopause General . Join activities that can help improve your cognitive health, such as learning a new skill, reading, or even solving puzzles.
Final Notes
Menopause may mean the end of your reproductive years, but it does not mean the end of having a quality life. This new biological phase can start an exciting and fulfilling chapter in your life. Although Menopause, in general, may come with its challenges, remember that it is just a phase and will not last for the rest of your life.
Always consult your healthcare provider and follow their recommendations to better deal with what you must go through during Menopause. Just like any stage in your life, you can cope with Menopause General ly confidently and with ease with the help of your healthcare provider and some practical strategies.