Understanding some of the things our bodies go through as we travel through these three phases of Menopause: Perimenopause, Menopause, and Postmenopause, helps us feel good about who we are and our future. Let us take a look at what Menopause...The Kaiser Permanente Guidebook for Women says.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the time when a woman's body decreases production of the hormones estrogen and progestin. Many women start this process in their mid-40s but some can start as early as 35. Here is a list of some of the symptoms one could experience during this time.
- Hot flashes
- Urinary problems
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings
- Sleeplessness
- Anxiety
- Forgetfulness
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Heart palpitations
- Breast discomfort
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Decreased sex drive
- Irritability
- Bloating
- Difficulty concentrating
- Menstrual cycles patterns unpredictable
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) may occur
- Symptoms can occur for two to eight years
What is Menopause?
Menopause is the time when menstruation ends. This means the end to the childbearing years. This often occurs between the ages of 45 and 51. The body at this time starts to produce less and less estrogen. Menopause systems might increase. To know for sure if you have reached menopause you have to look back over the past year or so and realize you no longer have menstrual periods. This is just one more transition in a women's life and it can be a full, happy, and healthy one.
What is Postmenopausal?
This period after the end of the menstrual cycle is called the postmenopausal period. Women are usually in their mid-50s and older. PMS symptoms may continue or begin to decrease. Mood swings may also continue. Kaiser's guidebook also mentions that as women age they are at a greater risk for certain diseases. These three are important for women to learn about and understand.
- Heart disease
- Osteoporosis
- Breast cancer
How Can We Take Care of Ourselves During Menopause?
Just like any time in our lives we need to do certain preventative measures to keep and stay healthy. Here the guidebook recommends both screening tests and self-care tips.
What Screening Tests Are Recommended?
- Mammograms for breast cancer starting at age 40.
- Pap test to screen for cervical cancer every 2 to 3 years.
- Sigmoidoscopy for colon cancer. Starting at 50 to 55.
- Cholesterol test for heart disease every five years.
What Self-Care Recommendations?
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Exercise regularly
- Do not smoke
- Limit alcohol or have none at all
- Make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D
- Reduce stress
- Ask your doctor about hormone therapy
For related information on aging and health you might be interested in the article Aging and Health: Book Review of Healthy Aging for Dummies.
Source:
The Permanente Medical Group. Menopause...A Kaiser Permanente Guidebook for Women. (2003).
Mary Moustakas - Working on Masters in Clinical Psyc. Have a son on the autism spectrum so, I hope to pursue a Ph.D in neuropsychology.
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