Menopause Matters

One of many reasons the menopause tends not to be welcome with open arms is that it's frequently accompanied by difficult symptoms, triggered by the sudden drop in your body's oestrogen levels as the womb releases its last few eggs.
Hot flushes, mood swings, memory loss, weight gain, disturbed sleep, plummeting libido. But there is a good thing here and you can take steps to lighten all these symptoms.

If you're suffering roughly from one-or more-of the probable menopausal symptoms, have a talk with your doctor about the choice of treatments that are now offered.

Hormone Replacement Therapy, which tops up your natural supply of rapidly-diminishing oestrogen, can be a successful way of treating a number of menopausal symptoms and also helps decrease the risk of osteoporosis.
However, HRT has been linked to a very slightly increased risk of certain conditions, including breast cancer, coronary heart disease and stroke.

If you're taking into consideration taking HRT, learn as much as possible about it and have a long talk with your doctor before making your mind up.
Many women find that hot flushes (and their bedtime equivalent, night sweats) are the most annoying symptoms of the menopause.
There's no wonder-remedy for either hot flushes or night sweats, but avoiding caffeine, alcohol and spicy food can occasionally help.

In addition, a recent study by Bioforce found that taking the herbal remedy sage can reduce hot flushes by 56%, while many menopause specialists suggest, such as Novogen Red Clover isoflavones.

If you're suffering from vaginal problems such as dryness or discomfort, your doctor might recommend that you try a low-dose vaginal oestrogen cream or, if you'd prefer a non-hormonal alternative, you could try a vaginal lubricant or moisturiser, which are both obtainable at any pharmacy near you.

Exercise not only helps bring your feelings back into balance after a mood swing-and helps fight against those menopausal extra inches around the waist-getting out and about should also help you sleep better.
There are also other lifestyle changes that can make a difference to your symptoms and your overall heath, including making sure your diet is as healthy and balanced as possible, stopping smoking and drinking only moderated amounts of alcohol.

Without doubt, menopause is a rough time of life but with the appropriate treatment, support, and guidance, it does not have to be.