How to Manage Symptoms of Menopause

What is Menopause?

Menopause marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles, occurring when her ovaries produce fewer female hormones. A woman is considered to have entered menopause once she has gone a full year without a period. It typically occurs between the ages of 44 and 52, though in some cases, it can happen abruptly due to surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus.

While many women experience no symptoms, others may face a range of bothersome signs, including:

Hot Flashes and Cold Sweats

These are often triggered by stress, excitement, or anxiety and may occur several times a day or night. The sensation of heat rises to the face, lasting anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes, sometimes followed by a rapid heartbeat and chills. Nausea and fatigue are also common.

How to Manage

To manage hot flashes, try drinking a cold beverage at the onset of a flush. Taking a cool shower before bed can help reduce night sweats. Opt for cotton sheets and undergarments to absorb perspiration. Avoid triggers like stress, intense physical activity, spicy foods, and heat exposure. Deep breathing exercises and meditation can also help alleviate symptoms.

Vaginal Dryness

After menopause, the vaginal lining thins, leading to reduced lubrication, which can cause dryness, discomfort, itching, and pain during intercourse. Increased urination, burning sensations, and frequent urinary tract infections may also occur. The vagina becomes less resilient to infections.

How to Manage

Use water-based lubricants during intercourse to alleviate dryness. Consult a doctor about local applications of female hormones, which can help keep the vagina moist and flexible, thus reducing discomfort. To manage urinary leakage, consider doing Kegel exercises or using prescribed medications under medical supervision. In some cases, surgical options may be recommended.

Psychological Symptoms

Mood swings, fatigue, nervousness, headaches, depression, crying spells, and difficulty sleeping are common psychological symptoms during menopause.

How to Manage

Combat these symptoms by exploring new hobbies, engaging in social activities, and minimizing stress. Incorporating yoga and meditation into your routine can be very beneficial for mental well-being.

Postmenopausal Bleeding

Any bleeding after menopause, even if light, should not be ignored as it may be indicative of cancer or pre-cancerous conditions in the genital tract.

How to Manage

Visit your doctor for tests such as a pap smear, cervical biopsy, D&C, or hysteroscopy to identify the cause of the bleeding. Bleeding after intercourse may indicate cervical cancer, which requires immediate attention. It could also be caused by less serious issues such as vaginal atrophy, polyps, or infections. It is important to consult with your doctor as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis.

Final Takeaway

To manage menopause symptoms, focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, a well-balanced diet, and effective stress management. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, both hormonal and non-hormonal treatments can provide relief. For a tailored approach, consult your healthcare provider to create a personalized plan that best addresses your needs.