Hormonal Journey
Hormones are a chemical substance which control different activities throughout the body. A women’s cycle is influenced by a number of different hormones during her life. Menopause is triggered by changes in these hormones, but this is a completely normal stage of a women’s life.
Menopause may seem scary to some women, but having a good understanding of what to expect during this phase of your life can help you to accept and manage these changes.
Karen has developed an online workshop “Embrace the Change” to help support women (and their families) during this time of transition. This workshop aims to take away the fear of menopause, educate people and help women to accept and manage this stage of life in a more natural way.
STAGES OF MENOPAUSE EXPLAINED
Menopause is the term given to women when they have not menstruated (had a period) for one year, the average age being 51 years old.
Peri-Menopause is the stage prior to Menopause where women may feel forgetful, anxious, experience broken sleep & hot flushes These symptoms may occur for up to 5 years
Early Menopause: a woman reaches menopause between the ages of 40 -45 years old.
Premature Menopause is where a woman goes into menopause under the age of forty. Usually, premature may be a result of the ovaries being removed surgically or where there may be other health issues.
Pre-Menopause: a woman has no physical or emotional symptoms but menstruation ceases.
Exercise is very important at this stage of a woman’s life especially weight bearing exercise such as – Pilates, Yoga, regularly walking, cycling, swimming or going to the gym. These forms of exercise can be beneficial in controlling these symptoms.
So why do some women experience issues earlier and some later?
The body is an interesting phenomenon, especially as the average length of menstruating is 35 years.
Example: A female who commences puberty at 13 years old should realistically cease menstruation at 48 years old, but as we know, life is not that simple! Women can start menstruating as young as 10 years old and still have their period into their early fifties.
Although the process of menopause cant be stopped perhaps being aware of what may happen prior to reaching menopause can prepare you to take action!
TIPS FOR PARTNERS
My Partner is only in her early 40’s and seems extremely forgetful, moody, stressed & anxious– why is this happening?
A: She could be experiencing early symptoms of Perimenopause. This is the stage prior to Menopause where a woman can experience heavy or in frequent periods. This may occur for 1- 4 years. The reason for this happening is the reduction in oestrogen which is one of the female hormones.
Q: My partner is gaining weight
A: Again, this can be very common in Pre & Post menopause. This can be due to an imbalance of hormones. Be sympathetic towards her.
Q: How can I help her?
A: Suggest going to her doctor to have a blood test which may indicate changes in her hormones.
Q: Should she go on HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
A: Suggest visiting the doctor together and find out if they are suggesting alternatives or if HRT is necessary at this stage. If recommended by the doctor, ask how long should she be on HRT and if there are alternative options?
Q: Should she look at other dietary options?
A: It is always a good idea to look at healthy alternatives. Lifestyle is a big factor during menopause. reducing red meat intake, eating more vegetables & supplements. (A nutritionist of Naturopath can help with options.
Alcohol and Caffeine can also really affect a woman at this stage in her life. It is a very good idea to reduce consumption as this will help reduce hot flushes and other symptoms.
Q: Other therapies to look at?
A: Reflexology can really reduce the symptoms and help balance the hormones during this time. 4 -6 sessions weekly or fortnightly and then regular monthly sessions can assist women to feel more balanced. .
For further information regarding treatments or workshops to assist, or to find out how you can take better ownership of your health contact Karen at feelgoodtherapiesperth@gmail.com