Navigating menopause

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It is essential to acknowledge the significant milestones in a woman’s life, one of which is menopause.

“According to the National Institute on Aging, menopause is a natural part of life that signals the end of a woman’s reproductive year,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.

“Menopause usually occurs in women in their late 40s to early 50s; however, it may begin earlier for some. The transition can be challenging because of the different symptoms that come with each stage of menopause.”

Menopause is classified into three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause.

1. Perimenopause: this is the period leading up to menopause. It can start several years before the final menstrual period and is marked by irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings. Women may also experience changes in their menstrual flow, with periods becoming lighter or heavier.

2. Menopause: this stage is marked by a woman not having a menstrual period for 12 months. At this point, the ovaries have significantly reduced their production of hormones like oestrogen and progesterone, essential for regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining pregnancy, and supporting reproductive and bone health.

3. Post-menopause: this is the phase after menopause. Many of the symptoms of perimenopause may subside during post-menopause. However, the risk of certain health conditions rises due to persistent low oestrogen levels.

Symptoms of Menopause

The symptoms of menopause can differ in how severe they are and how long they last. Common symptoms include hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood changes, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, weight gain, memory and concentration Issues and loss of bone density.

Navigate menopause with these easy steps: keep your bones strong and exercise regularly.

Conclusion

Menopause is a natural phase of life that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. By taking proactive steps towards maintaining your health and well-being, you can navigate menopause with confidence. Remember, every woman’s experience with menopause is unique. What works for one person may not work for another, so finding a personalised approach that suits your needs is essential. IB