Advances in health technology and techniques continue to move forward, and this is good news for women who are currently experiencing menopause – and for those who will be soon travelling down that path. The past few decades have seen great advancements and attention paid to women’s health and this offers some comfort, both physically and emotionally, for what can be a challenging transition.
Regardless of the severity of menopausal symptoms, it’s important for all women to know about the options available, like hormone replacement therapy, and other helpful lifestyle changes, to ease the experience.
After not experiencing a period for twelve months, and if a woman is neither sick nor pregnant, this normal stage is known as menopause. On average, women experience this in their 40s and 50s, but it can happen earlier or later. Those who have undergone major medical procedures like surgery on their uterus or ovaries may experience it earlier. Female sex hormone levels drop and ovaries stop producing eggs, hence the cessation of periods. Females are no longer able to get pregnant.
With the onset of menopause, some symptoms might include:
- Irregular periods
- Mood changes and forgetfulness
- Troubles falling and staying asleep
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Changes in sexual desire (increased or decreased)
- Plus, other physical changes with hair, skin, and weight
Pain could increase in the muscles and joints, and the ratios of fat and muscles may change. Where fat tends to accumulate and sit on the body may also occur, i.e., fat collecting around the midsection.
A quality, attentive, independent pharmacy like Medspharmacy.ca provides supplements that are specifically designed to suit one’s unique physiology. Biologically identical supplements that are part of hormone replacement therapy can be created specifically for your needs. Every woman experiences menopause in their own way, and different treatment plans are necessary to reduce side effects and overall medications needed.
These hormones are naturally-derived from plant sources and perfectly match your body’s own decreasing hormones. Meds Pharmacy can work alongside your doctor to customize these supplements to relieve your menopausal symptoms and potentially slow other age-related conditions and effects.
Lifestyle changes are also important to make during menopause. Support from other women, whether it be spending time with friends and loved ones who are going through, or who have experienced the same phase in their lives, can be an enormous comfort. You’re never alone in your age group with the availability of support groups online or possibly in your community. Joining fitness classes is a great way to meet people in your peer group if you are lacking these connections.
Plus, regular exercise can help ease menopausal symptoms. A great choice is swimming classes or free swims because the cool temperature of the water can help with overheating, especially during hot flashes. Remember to drink plenty of water for proper hydration, circulation, and cooling mechanisms in your body.
A diet that is rich in calcium, vitamin D, and iron is important for menopausal women and women in any stage of life. Menopause puts women at an increased risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and weight gain. So, a diet with a lot of whole, plant-based foods, nutrients, and one that is low in saturated fats, is best.