Menopause

The end of menstrual cycles (periods) in a woman’s life is called Menopause. It is a natural process that represents the end of a woman’s reproductive capacity. The average age for menopause in Australia is 51 years but typically occurs between 45 and 55 years.

This time leading up to menopause is called “perimenopause”. This is when the levels of female hormones fluctuate and can affect women in many different ways. Some women experience little to no symptoms of the menopause transition. Others can experience severe symptoms that impact their quality of life.

For any women under the age of 40 whose periods stop it is important to seek menopausal advise to minimise the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease

Women can be seen by different professionals during this time without a clear diagnosis as and are frequently diagnosed with a psychiatric condition ( depression, anxiety and ADHD) or rheumatological disorder due to joint pain, when, their symptoms are due to the decline in their levls of oestrogen.

Could it be perimenopause or menopause?

Have you noticed (regardless of age)

  • changes in your menstrual cycle? (longer, shorter, erratic, lighter or heavier flow)

  • aches and pains

  • hot flushes, night sweats

  • headaches

  • brain fog

  • ack of self-esteem

  • reduced sex drive (libido)

  • tiredness, difficulty sleeping

  • urinary frequency

  • vaginal dryness and discomfort with sexual intercourse

  • weight gain

Risks of Menopause:

  • Severe symptoms can have a negative impact on all aspects of life

  • Weakening of the bones (osteoporosis) with a higher risk of fractures.

  • Greater risk of heart problems and stroke

  • Increased frequency of urinary tract infections (UTI’s) due to vaginal dryness

  • Relationship Breakdown

  • Loss of muscle mass and skin elasticity

What medical treatments are available for menopause?

Hormone replacement therapy in the form of patches, pills or gels/ creams. Or for women with contra-indications to hormone therapy or who don’t want hormone replacement therpay.other medicatons can be used including some antidepressants, epilepsy medication or migraine and blood pressure medications.

What lifestyle measures can I use to help manage my menopausal symptoms?

  • Regular exercise - at least 30 minutes each day of the week, including cardio and strength training.

  • Healthier balanced diet - e.g. Meditarranean diet, avoid processed foods, and limit saturated fat intake.

  • Stay hydrated with an increased calcium intake - dairy products, sardines, nuts & seeds, and green vegetables

  • Healthy caffeine and alcohol intake- drink no more than two standard glasses per day with at least two alcohol-free days each week.

  • Stop smoking or Vaping

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