Hey ladies! Touching the half century, you may have to be extra vigilant regarding your health issues. Live a quality life during the middle age. Few biological changes are natural to happen. Menopause is the most noticeable among all. It occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. 

Menopause

It is the end of menstruation which results due to consistent low levels of oestrogen produced by the body. The reproductive part in females that is ovaries stop producing hormones. After a confirmed menopause, a woman becomes infertile.

Factors determining the time of menopause

It depends on genetic and environmental factors. The women who smoke experience an earlier menopause. 

Symptoms

Depression, forgetfulness, mood changes, hot flashes, night sweats, disturbed sleep, vaginal dryness, urinary infection, irregular bleeding and pain during intercourse. Symptoms may start months or even years before periods stop.

After effects

After menopause oestrogen levels remain only about 10 per cent of what they were before and progesterone levels are nearly zero. It may increase the risk of uterine, cervical, ovarian and breast cancer. Those already suffering from migraines have to take extra care as they may worsen. The risk of weight gain rises. These extra pounds are not inevitable. It needs to work harder to be in shape. There is an increased risk of osteoporosis with decrease in oestrogen levels. The risk of heart diseases also rise.

Precautions

Keep yourself in the best of your health exercising regularly and having good nutrition.

Treatment

Every woman is affected by menopause in a different way. To start a treatment requires a joint discussion and mutual decision between the woman and her health expert. Besides exercise regime and nutrient-rich diet, anti-depressants and HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) are the possible treatments. HRT replaces the hormones that ovaries gradually stop producing. HRT can be done in the form of tablets that can be taken orally or inserted into the vagina, Transdermally by skin patch or gel or directly into the blood stream.

The selection depends on the woman’s choice and her doctor’s assessment regarding the most suitable treatment. HRT can be started even before the periods stop. It is a proven treatment for hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal discomfort. But, some mild side effects are also associated with it. These are usually settled down within a month but the major risks like breast cancer, deep venous blood clots and strokes have to be taken care of.

Some natural treatments like eating soy, black cohosh, flax seeds, applying vitamin oil, drinking lot of cold water, fruit juices with anti-oxidant vitamins, doing yoga, aerobics and breathing exercises may be effective in reducing menopausal symptoms. Though these natural cures are very common but research is still ongoing to determine their effectiveness. Dietary herbal supplements may also have side effects. Consult with your doctor before using them.

Menopause can bring many physical, mental and sexual changes. Learn about them and find the latest and best treatment for you. Live a vibrant life and look amazing.