MENOPAUSE & YOUR WELLBEING

The Menopause is one point in a continuum of life stages for women and marks the end of their reproductive years. Most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55 years as a natural part of their biological ageing. Menopause is caused by the loss of ovarian follicular function and a decline in circulating blood oestrogen levels.  In some cases early onset menopause is a consequence of surgical and medical procedures and treatment. It is important to realise that every organ system in a woman's body is affected by the menopause. This includes the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys. On the cellular level, menopause affects multiple areas within the body, therefore, it is a complex individual experience. In most cases the menopausal transition can be gradual, usually beginning with changes in the menstrual cycle which can also be linked to declining follicular reserve.

Every woman’s menopause is different. What is most important is to help women through this experience in a way that is specific to her needs and to offer best practice and evidence based information that will enhance her knowledge regarding her wellbeing and health during the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause.

Where to start 

Here are some healthy lifestyle changes that can help minimise the difficult symptoms and  experience of the menopause. Many women feel that this is a good time to review the way they live their life to become more self aware and reflect on their own health during their perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause experience. 

Chew over your diet  The fall in hormone levels namely, oestrogen that accompanies the menopause can increase the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis. A healthy diet is essential at this stage: keep it low in saturated fat and salt to reduce blood pressure, and rich in calcium and vitamin D to strengthen bones. Some women take dietary supplements to help get the balance right and remember the summer months when women can enjoy more daylight and increase their Vitamin D levels naturally.

Keep on your feet  Some women experience increased anxiety during the menopause. Regular exercise helps to convert stress into positive energy, while guarding against heart disease. 

Stop smoking   Smoking has been shown to lead to an earlier menopause and trigger hot flushes. If you smoke you also run a higher risk of developing osteoporosis and Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), which is the most common form of death in women. 

Drink within reason  The combination of excessive alcohol and hormonal instability is a risky one! Alcohol increases flushes and is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Try not to drink more than 2 units of alcohol per day, and keep at least one day a week alcohol-free. 

Stay calm and positive   Hormone imbalance during the menopause can result in added stress and even depression. Relaxation techniques, meditation and counselling can be very helpful in coping with anxiety and sleep deprivation.

Women experience menopause in widely varying ways. It may help to remember that it is not unusual to feel that your body is changing dramatically, or equally, that it has hardly changed at all. Some women breeze through a problem-free menopause, but most experience some symptoms ranging from mild to severe. If you feel that you are struggling, advice and support is widely available. The important thing is to be aware of any changes and to consult your GP for advice. Whatever the symptoms, help is available in a range of ways. Above all, bear in mind that your health is your responsibility and that you are in charge. This is a time when your body deserves some tender loving care.

Denise

ALAM Acupuncture