MENOPAUSE
What is menopause?
Menopause is the time that marks the end of your menstrual cycles. It’s diagnosed after you’ve undergone 12 months without a menstrual period. It can happen in your 40s or 50s. Menopause is a natural biological process.
Let’s talk about stages as it is not a sudden process. A female experience through series of hormonal, physical and emotional changes/ transition in body before landing up into actual menopause.
STAGES OF MENOPAUSE:
Perimenopause –
- It is transition period leading up to menopause.
- Hormones become irregular in it.
- Estrogen hormone gets imbalanced causing Hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings etc.
- It begins in your 40’s and lasts for an average of 3-4 years Menopause –
- It marks the end of periods and reproductive years.
- Ovaries no longer releases eggs and hormones.
- It occurs between 40-55 years.
Post menopause – - It is menstrual free life with ease of symptoms..
- Estrogen level stabilizes.
- Begins at 50’s and last for rest of your life.
SYMPTOMS OF MENOPAUSE
Fatigue
Forgetfulness
Mood changes
Low libido
Dry skin and hair loss Heart palpitations
Trouble sleeping
Urinary challenges
Vaginal dryness
Weight gain
TREATMENT :
Treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are and how much are they affecting your day to day life.
- Calcium supplements : As we know that after menopause calcium decreases in our body drastically, hence it’s advisable to take calcium and vitamin D supplements from peri menopausal period only .
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Dietary Modification: Doctors recommend a high-protein and high-fiber diet during menopause. Include plenty of nuts, fresh fruits, and vegetables to ensure your diet is rich in antioxidants. A soya-rich diet is especially beneficial, as soya contains natural estrogen. Try to include soya in any form in your daily meals.
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Exercise: Engage in any form of physical activity—whether it’s yoga, a 30-minute walk, swimming, dancing, or jogging—to strengthen your muscles and bones.
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Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Consider HRT only if your menopause symptoms severely disrupt your daily life. Always consult your doctor before starting this therapy.
It is just like any other phase of life. Don’t be shy to discuss your emotional or physical issues at this age. Help is always there to bring your inner happiness back in your life.