Menopause – When our life begins to ‘BLOOM’

The key to a successful transition through this stage in a woman’s life (menopause) is to have the willingness to learn and accept the changes unfolding before us. Articles on Male Menopause are available.

This time in a woman’s life brings many changes (hence the term “change of life”) however if we are positive and embrace them, we can shine through and celebrate our womanhood.

Menopause is simply the stopping of the monthly menses (period). This usually occurs when women are between the ages of 45 and 55, however it does affect some in their 30’s. The ovaries have stopped releasing eggs and the levels of female sex hormones, oestrogen and progesterone have gradually reduced. Periods usually become irregular before finally ceasing. This cessation of menstruation heralds the end of a female’s reproductive life.

As the level of oestrogen is reduced, women pass through the menopausal transition stage, often suffering headaches, hot flushes and irritability. This may last up to four years before the final period.

It is now a known fact that oestrogen affects many other parts of the female body other than just the ovaries, uterus, vagina and breasts. The glands, bones, arteries, nerves, heart muscles, liver, brain and skin all rely on oestrogen to function correctly. Thus, unpleasant symptoms endured during this menopause stage may include such things as:

Psychological symptoms:Irritability, tearfulness, depression, anxiety, insomnia, lower energy levels, loss of confidence and self esteem, short-term memory loss, poor concentration,

Wow, now wonder it is called the change! And no wonder the people around us sometimes suffer!

However, many women are fortunate and don’t suffer any symptoms.

The most effective treatment for relief of menopausal symptoms is HRT, or the replacement of the lacking hormones. There are pros and cons for this therapy but you should seek your doctor’s advice on the best treatment for you. Complementary treatments may also assist with the relief of symptoms: Naturopathy, nutritional therapy, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, meditation and relaxation techniques such as yoga, tái chi, and of course herbal or homeopathic remedies. St John’s wort is known to be helpful for mild to moderate depression, valerian for sleep problems, vervain for stress, and remedies such as black cohosh, sage, wild yam or chaste tree for hormonal irregularity. Natural progesterone creams may assist with hot flushes, and soy supplements containing phytoestrogens with hormonal properties have also been touted to be beneficial to ease menopausal symptoms.

Women are confronted with many challenges during this time of menopause, with the changes occurring in her body and also the many changes occurring in life around her. This is often the time when children become adults, leave the nest and embark on their own lives, partners may retire etc.

Don’t deny your maturity, but instead be proud of it. Re-evaluate your life, and make plans for the future so that you can enjoy the rest of your life, fulfilling your hopes and dreams.

Do not resist the changes as they occur, but go with the flow and treat yourself to what your body is craving – rest to rejuvenate, exercise and a nutritionally balanced diet. Rediscover your sexuality now that you don’t have periods to contend with. In short, accept the changes and know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel – a bright, glaring light. You have been given a new lease on life, so make the most of it.

For more fabat40.com articles on coping and blooming our way through mid-life and menopause, see:

For articles on MALE MENOPAUSE or ANDROPAUSE, see:

Testosterone and the Male Menopause

Male Menopause Really Does Exist

Male Menopause Enlarged

Maximise Your Manhood and Beat Male Menopause

RECOMMENDED SITES:

Menopause Naturally Most women better than 40 dread 'the change'. The fact is though, that menopause is a simple transition into a better, wiser, more stable stage of life.

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