A Practical Approach is the Best Preparation for Menopause

Faced with the prospective of having to go through menopause, many women experience anxiety, apprehension and fear. So many rumors abound about symptoms, emotional and physical turmoil, and the dangers of HRT and other treatments, it’s no wonder misconceptions abound. As with most things in life, when it comes to menopause knowledge truly is power. Counter the misconceptions by preparing yourself for what’s to come. Use information that can truly make a difference proactively, and prepare to cruise through the transition known as menopause at an even keel.

Will The Sky Fall?

The physical changes women experience during menopause center around the natural cessation of their monthly menstrual cycle. This is a process that occurs gradually as eggs stop being released from the ovaries and production of reproductive hormones diminishes. Physical and emotional side effects often result as estrogen and progesterone are depleted. Some of the most common include:

• Fatigue


• Hot Flashes


• Moodiness or Irritability


• Insomnia


• Vaginal Dryness


• Decreased Sex Drive

All women experience varying types and degrees of physical and emotional symptoms both prior to, during and after menopause. Some may be disturbing or uncomfortable, but rarely are they completely overwhelming or unbearable. Should you begin to experience extreme symptoms, there is plenty of help available in a wide variety of treatment options. The best approach is to avoid worrying about what might happen, and try to react proactively to what eventually does.

Keep in mind that although some degree of negative side effects are likely to result from the onset of menopause, there may be some surprising perks, too. Many women find the cessation of menstruation a tremendous relief. Spontaneity and a new found sense of freedom are common reactions to the eventual impossibility of an unplanned pregnancy.

How Do I Prepare?

Researching treatment options and creating a plan for how you will handle symptoms as they arise is time well spent. Find out about osteoporosis and the risks of cancer and heart conditions that increase as hormonal levels are depleted. Never confuse seeking out information on menopause with imagining worst case scenarios!

If your lifestyle isn’t the healthiest, make it a priority to develop some positive habits now that can help reduce symptoms later. Increase your energy, fortitude and self-esteem by:

• Exercising 30 minutes, 3 times a week


• Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables


• Take a multivitamin daily


• Get at least 8 hours of sleep every night

Make it a goal to sail through menopause by developing the emotional and physical fortitude you’ve enjoyed at various peak points throughout your life. Stay focused on the positive, and remember that menopause it nothing more than a transitional period for your body as it prepares for what could well be the best years of your life.