Menopause - What you need to know

Menopause - What you need to know

World Menopause Day is held each year on October 18th, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about menopause, especially in the workplace. With around 25 million women experiencing menopause each year, and approximately a quarter of them facing severe symptoms that can have a serious impact on their life.It’s crucial to have an open discussion about this topic. Some women may also experience early menopause, with symptoms starting as early as age 40. Understanding menopause and its effects can help women feel more comfortable managing their symptoms.

Menopause is defined as the time when women stop having periods, usually occurring between the ages of 50 and 54. This transition is primarily due to lower hormone levels, but it can also result from surgical procedures like the removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy), cancer treatments like chemotherapy, or even genetic factors. In some cases, the reason for menopause remains unknown and is spontaneous.

Symptoms of menopause can include hot flushes, night sweats, joint pain or increased weight gain. These kinds of symptoms can sometimes have a significant impact on daily life. However, there are some things you can change to help maintain a good lifestyle, such as:

Rest- Getting plenty of rest is essential for increasing the energy levels. Establishing a regular sleeping routine can be beneficial.

Talk- Chatting with others who are experiencing similar challenges might give you the reassurance you need, help you understand some things better or just help you get some things off your chest.

Exercise- Regular physical activity and a healthy diet will help you by boosting your energy and mood. Going on regular peaceful walks alone or with someone can really help reset your mood and make you feel better.

Menopause can be tough, it can cause you to lose sleep which can cause you to feel irritable and more anxious. If you’re struggling to sleep, try and create a relaxing environment to help your mind rest – speak with a medical professional like your GP if you feel like you are struggling with the symptoms.

The NHS has information and resources available on its website for further guidance and details of where you can get support with medical professionals like menopause specialists or further advice to help you live with menopause with minimal disruption.

Menopause – NHS (www.nhs.uk)