Menopause: Understanding the Transition

Unlock the secrets of the menopause transition: discover the 3 stages, symptoms, and effective solutions. Explore menopause programs at Meraki Integrated Wellness for middle-aged women.

Menopause is the stage of a woman's life that marks the end of her reproductive years. This phase will bring about various changes in her body. This article will explain what menopause is and give you suggestions to help you through it.

What Is Menopause?

Most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, as a natural part of getting older. Once a woman is past perimenopause and in menopause (no menstruation for a full year) she can no longer become pregnant. This happens because her ovaries stop releasing eggs.

The menopausal transition can last several years. It can begin with strange symptoms like achy joints, sweat smelling different, itchy skin, or maybe there are changes in the menstrual cycle. This is perimenopause. During perimenopause, women may experience physical, emotional, mental, and social changes.

It's important to realize that every woman's experience is unique. If you understand menopause, you can make informed decisions and take care of your health. This will help you embrace this new phase of life with confidence.

What Happens During Menopause?

When women go through menopause, their bodies go through big changes. Hormones, which are communication pathways in our bodies that control how we grow and feel, start to change a lot. Think puberty, but in reverse!

The ovaries stop producing eggs every month. This changes estrogen and progesterone levels affects a woman's fertility, and causes inflammation throughout the body. This change in hormones can affect how our bodies feel and our emotions too.

Hormonal changes may cause some women to experience hot flashes, irregular periods, or trouble sleeping. Other symptoms include vaginal dryness, mood swings, and so much more. Menopause can also affect a woman's bone density and increase the risk of heart disease.

Menopause is a natural part of aging for women, and these changes are normal. Our bodies are adjusting to this new phase of life.

What Are The 3 Stages Of The Menopause Transition?

Menopause happens in three stages. The first stage is perimenopause. During menopause, a woman's periods become irregular. She may experience symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. Perimenopause can last for a few years (3-10) before the periods stop completely.

The second stage is menopause. This is when a woman hasn't had her period for 12 months in a row. This stage lasts one day! 12 months plus one day. During this stage, symptoms may continue, but they usually start to become less severe.

The final stage is postmenopause. At this stage, symptoms go down but risks for health conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, some cancers, and heart disease increase.

When you understand the phases of menopause and its effects, you can make informed health decisions by knowing what to expect and how to manage the symptoms.

What Helps With Menopause?

Several things can help women during the menopause transition. One important factor is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. To feel better and manage symptoms, it's important to eat clean and move your body regularly.

Staying cool can also be beneficial, as hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause. To be more comfortable, wear thin clothes, use fans or air conditioning, and avoid hot and spicy food. Small tweaks in our nutrition decrease hot flashes in a powerful way.

Don't keep the changes you're body is going through to yourself. Seek support and talk about the changes you're experiencing. Consider reaching out to your friends, support groups, or online communities. Connecting to others who understand will make you feel less alone.

Some women find relief by using natural remedies, like herbal supplements or acupuncture. We recommend you consult your healthcare professional before trying any new treatments. This will ensure they are safe and suitable for you.

Doctors and Naturopathic Doctors (ND) may recommend the use of hormone therapy for certain women. This involves taking medications or creams that support the balance of hormones during menopause. Before starting hormone therapy, it's important to understand the potential benefits and risks.

Every woman's experience with menopause is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. This is why it's very important to listen to your body to find the best strategies that work for you. Menopause is a normal part of life. With support, you can handle this change gracefully and feel like your amazing self during this transition.

Menopause Programs at Meraki Integrated Wellness

Understand and embrace this translation as being an empowering experience for a woman. We offer menopause support programs at Meraki Integrated Wellness. With the proper help and tools, you can thrive and embrace this new phase of life with energy and strength.

If you or someone you know is going through menopause, contact Meraki Integrated Wellness today. We can help you navigate this time of your life to ensure you are knowledgeable, empowered and confident.