Dealing with Menopause

Menopause is a process that every woman will eventually go through. It is the time when women's ovaries will stop functioning as a reproductive organ. It is the time when the monthly menstrual cycles come to a grinding halt and the ovaries stop producing eggs and the female hormones that are normally flooding out of the ovaries slow down dramatically. It is a phase after which a woman can not get pregnant anymore, at least naturally.

The issue with menopause is that it is challenging to say the least and completely overwhelming in some instances. If you, or your loved ones are going through or approaching menopause, here are a few tips to help you move through it as smoothly as possible.

Stresses of menopause

Most women in the USA hit menopause between the age of 47 and 55, surprisingly, smokers reach menopause far sooner than non smokers. The most common symptoms of menopause are:

• Hot flashes
  
  
• Mood swings
  
  
• Mental fogginess
  
  
• Loss of libido
  
  
• Vaginal dryness
  
  
• Depression, anxiety
  
  

Dealing with them can be quite challenging as they lead to loss of motivation and women who are going through it, might give up ultimately. Here are a few tips that can help you manage them.

Keep a record

Hot flashes, anxiety and many other things on that list have a trigger. Every time you experience either of them, make a note. It can be alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, or a particular incident, memory, in some cases even food. Try and avoid them and see if that helps in any way. For some women, they are a regular thing, so schedule it, so that you can be prepared.

Light on the clothing

Wear comfortable clothes, keep yourself aired and cool all the time. If you feel that your sleep is disturbed by the symptoms, wear light pyjamas, keep a fan on the bed side, use thin blankets and sleep on the cold side of the pillow.

Exercise

Exercise is a way of getting around with most physical problems. It also prompts good sleep which is required for you to be in good shape and get back with your regular life the next day. Choose some light exercises like tai chi, yoga, and practice meditation.

Reward your body

A loss of libido, dryness and the general condition of your body can make sex both unappealing and in some cases, painful. There are a number of products that you can use, which will enhance the sensations. Intimate contact with your partner will keep you feeling close and comforted.

Menopause need not be a confusing, painful or a depressing time always. In fact many women are encouraged to look forward to life after menopause, where there are no worries about pregnancy and the monthly stresses of periods are a thing of the past. If you need help, advice, or medical support in getting through your menopausal stages, drop in to one of our centers. At Phoenix family clinics, we have extensive experience and have handled patients at all stages of their lives, we would be happy to help.

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