THE WELLNESS WIRE
Menopause: a journey for everyone
In this edition, we delve into a topic that affects half of our population directly and practically everyone indirectly at some stage in their lives: menopause. Menopause is a natural biological process, but it can often come with a range of physical and emotional challenges. Our goal today is to provide insights into menopause, its symptoms, and ways to manage these changes to maintain a healthy and fulfilling life.
Understanding Menopause
Menopause marks the end of menstrual cycles and is diagnosed after you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual period. It’s a natural biological process, typically occurring in the late 40s or early 50s, but it can also be brought on by surgery, treatment of a disease, or an illness.
Men’s Journey: Although men don’t experience menopause the same way as women, they are indirectly affected. Men may witness changes in their partners, friends, or loved ones during this time, making it essential for them to support and understand the menopausal experience. Men also experience “Andropause, which is often referred to as ‘male menopause’, characterises the decrease in testosterone levels in cisgender males due to ageing. This condition manifests through various symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and can also impact fertility.”
Nurturing Well-Being During Menopause
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can alleviate some menopausal symptoms.
- Stress Management: Practices like yoga, meditation, or mindfulness can help manage mood swings and stress.
- Seek Support: Connecting with other women going through menopause can provide comfort and advice.
- Hormone Therapy and Other Treatments: For some women, hormone therapy can be effective in treating menopause symptoms. Other non-hormonal medications and treatments may also be helpful.
- Regular Health Check-ups: Regular visits to your healthcare provider can help manage menopausal symptoms and monitor for any health changes.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about menopause. Understanding what’s happening in your body can help you feel more in control.
CREATING A CARE PLAN
A care plan is simply a list of things that improve how you’re feeling in any given moment. It can be hobbies, writing things down, talking to someone, calling an organisation – Whatever works for you! Write down what gives you a boost and keep it somewhere handy.