Menopause

Women who are entering menopause may experience various conditions that may cause physical and emotional distress.  Apart from hot flashes, irritability and other physical changes a woman may experience during menopause, her hormone levels will also start to decline.  The decline in the production of her hormones - estrogen and progesterone - can lead to various health problems.  The drop in the levels of bone-protecting estrogen is one of the main causes of osteoporosis.  Osteoporosis which means "porous bones" is a condition wherein the bones become less dense and more brittle.  This usually affects people over the age of 70 and women after menopause.  Osteoporosis can result into broken bones and spinal problems.  Low hormone levels during menopause can also cause a rise in cholesterol levels thus increasing a woman's risk of heart disease

A woman's declining hormone levels during and after menopause is often the reason why many doctors prescribe hormone replacement therapy.  This type of treatment has its accompanying health risks and a thorough discussion with your physician is necessary before you undergo treatment.   

Although menopause has accompanying health conditions that can be frustrating and pose problems for some women, others view this phase with a positive attitude.  They welcome this as a new chapter in their lives full of new and exciting adventures ahead.  Menopause could mean a woman's freedom from menstruation, birth control and child bearing.  However, some may also find this period, a time of loss and sadness.  A woman experiencing menopause may also find that her parents are also approaching old age and the realization that they may soon die will send her into emotional struggle.  This can also be aggravated by the fact that she and her partner are also facing their own aging.  During menopause, a woman may find it very difficult to cope when children start to leave home and live by themselves or build their own lives and families.  These types of situations are usually intensified by the fact that a woman who enters menopause loses her capacity to bear a child and her fertile years have already come to an end.   

Experts suggest that you do the following if you are a woman experiencing menopause:

1. Look for a support group.  You can ask your local hospital for any recommendations.  Your family and friends can be your support group as well.  Talk to them and inform them about the changes you are going through and how these affect your emotions. 

2. Even if your periods get irregular, you may still be releasing eggs and may still get pregnant.  If you are not planning to have a baby, don't stop using birth control pills.  Keep using these for a year or two or until your menstruation completely stops. 

3. Women who are taking birth control pills may still be experiencing menstrual periods even after menopause.  Inquire from your doctor about FSH test.  An FHS test can tell when is the right time to stop taking birth control pills, especially if you are near 50 and still taking pills.   

4. Hot flashes and night sweats usually make you uncomfortable and may hinder proper rest.  Try to wear cotton clothes if you experience these episodes often.  You can take day rests or naps to make up for sleep lost at night.   

5. Drink plenty of water at least 8 glasses a day. 

6. If you are experiencing vaginal dryness, the use of a lubricant can be helpful.   

7. Try to reduce stress by engaging yourself in worthwhile activities and relaxation techniques like yoga. 

8. Try to lose weight if you are over the desired weight.  This will help reduce your risk of heart disease. 

9. You should take calcium supplements to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis.  It is recommended that about 1,200 mg to 1,500 mg of calcium a day should be added to your diet.  Engage yourself in a regular exercise routine like walking, dancing and lifting weights.  These weight bearing exercises will also guard you against osteoporosis. 

10. Minimize your alcohol and caffeine intake. 

Menopause should not be a reason why a woman should cease to enjoy life.  A positive attitude and a good support group can make a woman experience menopause with fewer complications.