MENOPAUSE

Menopause is the stage of life that follows the end of the menstrual cycles. Each person may experience menopause differently.Menopause is not a health problem but a natural transition. However, it can involve unwanted physical and mental changes.

Lifestyle tips

Tips for managing the challenges of menopause include:

• getting regular exercise

• practicing relaxation and deep breathing exercises

• having a healthful diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

• quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke

• limiting the intake of alcohol

• seeking counseling for anxiety, mood changes, and relationship concerns

• establishing good sleeping habits and getting plenty of rest

• doing Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor

• talking to friends and family about the experience of menopause

• exploring new ways of enjoying intimacy with a partner

• joining a club, volunteering, or taking up a new hobby

Post Menopause

After menopause you will no longer be able to get pregnant and you will no longer get a period. If you have any type of vaginal bleeding after menopause, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Vaginal bleeding after menopause is not normal and can mean that you have a serious health problem.

You may experience any of the following after menopause:

Low hormone levels With menopause, your ovaries make very little of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Because of changing hormone levels, you may develop certain health risks, including osteoporosis, heart disease, and stroke.

Menopause symptoms instead of period problems. After menopause, most women get relief from period problems or menopause symptoms. However, you may still experience symptoms such as hot flashes because of changing estrogen levels. One recent study found that hot flashes can continue for up to 14 years after menopause.

Vaginal dryness Vaginal dryness may be more common post-menopause.