menopause managing
Menopause refers to the final menstrual period that a woman experiences, it is sometimes called “the change of life” meaning the end to a woman’s reproductive capacity. Menopause occurs naturally when a woman’s ovaries run out of functioning eggs.
At what age do women go through menopause?
What are the physical symptoms?
Most women become menopausal naturally between the ages of 45 and 55 years, with an average age of onset at around 50 years. Premature menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency may occur before the age of 40 due to natural ovarian function ceasing either due to surgical intervention as a result of cancer treatment eg. chemotherapy or radiotherapy or by spontaneous premature ovarian insufficiency which at times is unexplained. Other factors may be associated with smoking, not having children, hysterectomy, HIV infection, low body weight or a family history of early menopause. Menopausal transitioning is often referred to as peri-menopause. This is the time leading up to menopause when a woman may begin to experience changes to her menstrual cycle eg. irregular periods or change in flow, shorter or longer cycles. Some women can experience menopausal symptoms for 5-10 years until they experience their final menstrual period. Every woman is different and there is no way to predict when he symptoms will start and how long they will last.
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How to manage the symptoms > > > > > >
eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D achieve and maintain a healthy weight eat lots of fruit and vegetables exercise regularly drink plenty of water avoid caffeine, alcohol and foods that are sugary or spicy that trigger hot flushes
Menopause hormone therapy has been shown to help significantly to reduce menopausal symptoms for those experiencing extreme symptomatic menopausal symptoms. It replaces hormones that are at a lower level as you approach the menopause.
When to see a GP
It’s worth talking to a GP if you have menopausal symptoms that are troubling you or if you’re experiencing symptoms of menopause before 45 years of age. CLICK HERE to download menopause symptoms and how to manage it. Book a medical appointment
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Learn more about Menopause from Allison - Clinical Nurse at DPV Health
Make an appointment at one of DPV Health’s Medical Centres. To book call 1300 234 263 or CLICK HERE to book online.
