Many women do not like to think about menopause, but it is one of the most common health concerns women have. Menopause can be difficult in more ways than one because it is almost impossible to avoid thinking about it. After all, it is something that all women have to face one day.
So, What is Menopause?
Menopause is the time when your menstrual cycles come to an end. It is diagnosed after 12 months of not having a menstrual period. Menopause can occur in your forties or fifties.
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What are the Symptoms of Menopause?
You may experience the following signs and symptoms in the months or years preceding menopause (perimenopause):
- Periodic irregularities
- Dryness of the vagina
- Flashes of heat
- Chills
- Sweating at night
- Sleep issues
- Mood swings
- Gaining weight and slowing metabolism
- Hair loss and dry skin
- Breast fullness loss
Women’s signs and symptoms, including changes in menstruation, can differ. You will most likely have some irregularity in your periods before they end.
Period skipping is common and expected during perimenopause. Menstrual cycles frequently skip a month and then return, or skip several months and then restart monthly cycles for a few months. Periods also tend to occur on shorter cycles, bringing them closer together. Pregnancy is possible despite irregular periods. Consider a pregnancy test if you’ve missed a period but aren’t sure if you’ve begun the menopausal transition.
Stages of Menopause
Perimenopause or “menopause transition”
When the ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen, perimenopause can begin eight to ten years before menopause. It usually begins in your forties. Perimenopause lasts until menopause, when the ovaries stop producing eggs. The drop in oestrogen accelerates in the last one to two years of perimenopause.
Menopause
Menopause is the period of no longer having menstrual periods. At this point, your ovaries have stopped producing eggs and have produced the majority of their oestrogen.
Post-menopause
This is the term used to describe the period that follows a year without a period (the rest of your life). Many women may experience relief from menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, during this stage. However, some women continue to have menopausal symptoms for a decade or more after their period stops.
Menopause Treatment
Choosing whether and how to treat menopausal symptoms can be difficult and personal. Consult your doctor about your symptoms, family and medical history, and preferences. Whatever you decide, make an appointment with your doctor once a year to discuss your treatment plan and any changes you want to make.
Learn about options for dealing with hot flashes, sleep issues, and sex issues during the menopausal transition.
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Menopause Management Natural Alternative Healing Methods and Good Health
Controlled breathing
According to a study published in the journal Menopause, slow breathing really does help it also reduces fatigue and improves sleep and mood. To try it, slow your breathing to six breaths per minute (in to a count of five, out to a count of five) for 15 minutes, twice a day.
Acupuncture
Hot flashes and night sweats can both be reduced with acupuncture. The maximum benefit appears to be after eight treatments, with the effects lasting six months.
Yoga
Yoga could help you sleep better. It may also improve mindfulness and restore a sense of calm to your daily life.
Source and References: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland, Longdom,
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