Insights on Menopause

Menopause is an overwhelming phase of a woman’s life that marks the end of her reproductive years when ovarian follicles deplete due to ageing. However, it may be induced by certain surgeries, radiation exposure, chemotherapy, and other health problems. It brings a wide range of physical, emotional, and mental changes as our body goes through a notable transformation, accompanied by symptoms such as night sweats, hot flushes, restlessness, depression, and anxiety. As you get closer to menopause, the production of ‘female’ hormones (estrogen and progesterone) by the ovaries tends to decrease. Hormone levels start to fluctuate, and there may be some deviations in your menstrual cycle, such as:

• Longer, shorter, or irregular period cycles

• Lighter menstrual bleeding

• Heavier and unpredictable bleeding at times

Most of the changes that come with menopause and ageing aren’t avoidable, but you may find menopause a new beginning that can be lived with good overall health. Having an idea of what’s a typical experience may help ease your concerns and help you to prepare for what’s to come.

The following suggestions would be helpful to cope with all that you undergo during this stage of your life.

No surprise here. One of the best ways to maintain health is engaging yourself in physical activities. For anyone experiencing menopause, exercise can prevent memory loss, promote weight loss, and help minimize mood swings.

Many menopause sufferers report hot flashes and night sweats spoiling their sleep, and sleep is undeniably crucial to combat memory loss and mood swings. Get your night’s sleep by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet and, make sure that you rest at least eight hours a day.

Incorporating a variety of food items such as dairy products, healthy fats, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and rich sources of protein into your diet may help relieve some menopause symptoms. Also, monitor what you eat so that you can avoid all the wrong foodstuffs on your plate.

Your stress levels can be reduced by doing something that you enjoy and relax, be it watching a movie, sipping a cup of tea, listening to music, or any other hobby. Consult your doctor if you’re still feeling anxious, depressed, or worried.

Despite all your best efforts, the symptoms of menopause can still be bothering some of you. If you think that your symptoms are severe or interfering with your daily life, make an appointment with your gynaecologist to talk to them about alternative treatments, including medication or hormone therapy.