Once you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual period, you’re officially in menopause. The average age for American women is 51, but the process can start in your 40s. Menopause can also result from a hysterectomy or cancer treatment.
Because you’re no longer actively reproductive, your body’s estrogen level drops dramatically, resulting in a wide range of symptoms that may affect you. Every woman is different. Some have few symptoms while others have only minor versions that don’t interfere with their lives. There are those, though, who suffer upheavals due to the intensity of the symptoms they experience.
When all else fails, consult with Alpha Internal Medicine to get menopause under control. They’re women’s health specialists, well-placed to help you find the right solutions for your personal take on this phase of your life. In the meantime, here are five tips to help you manage your menopause symptoms naturally.
Hot flashes are one of the most common of all menopause symptoms. They’re not always spontaneous though. You can bring on a hot flash simply by entering a warm room. Worrying about the monthly bills or some other common stressor can be a trigger. Sadly, caffeine and chocolate, dear friends of many, can also betray you by setting off a hot flash. Keep a hot flash diary to recognize your patterns and possible triggers.
Exercise has a way of helping the body reset and regulate itself. Adding to your activity level as little as three hours per week may show benefits such as better sleep, increased energy, stress control, and of course, exercise can help you to lose and control your weight. This can make managing menopause easier, along with all the other health benefits it brings.
Menopause is essentially a chemical issue in your body. Adding lots of fresh fruits and vegetables stacks the chemical game in your favor. As part of a healthy diet, these foods help you to feel full without adding excess calories, and they contribute nutritional building blocks for your body. Your diet is another contributor to healthy weight
Dryness is a natural consequence of reduced estrogen. To some extent, you can counter this with an intake of 8 to 10 glasses of water daily. It helps with weight management and it can reduce some of the bloating that often occurs with hormonal balance changes.
Human sexuality requires a balance between physical and emotional aspects. For some women, menopausal changes make physical arousal more difficult. Make a conscious effort to maintain or even increase intimate time with your partner. Use sexual lubricants to ease any discomfort. If you still have issues, then it’s time to discuss it with your doctor.
Sometimes, even the most focused self-care menopause management won’t produce enough improvement. Your days will still be affected by your symptoms and keep you from living life on your terms. Don’t worry, there are plenty of medical approaches that can boost your efforts.
Contact Alpha Internal Medicine in Fayetteville, Georgia, by phone or online to book a consultation to discuss your symptoms and potential treatments. There is a way to get your post-menopausal life on track. Book your appointment now.
