The menopause is a natural and inevitable stage in every woman's life, marking the end of the fertile years. Far from being the beginning of a decline, it can be seen as a period of renewal and personal discovery. This chapter of life requires a thorough understanding if we are to live each moment with serenity and well-being.
The symptoms of the menopause
Every woman experiences the menopause in her own way, but some experiences are common to many. Hot flushes, often the most troublesome, are sudden sensations of heat in the upper body, which may be accompanied by redness and sweating. At night, these symptoms can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue during the day. Other common symptoms include mood swings and dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, particularly in the vaginal area, which can affect intimacy. It's essential to talk openly about these experiences to demystify them and find appropriate solutions.
Hormonal changes explained
The menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing significant quantities of oestrogen and progesterone, two key hormones in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and reproduction. This hormonal decline is at the root of most of the physical and emotional symptoms associated with this transition.
Strategies for a better quality of life:
Faced with these changes, a number of adjustments to daily life can be beneficial:
- Dietary adjustments: a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is recommended to maintain bone health. Including fruit, vegetables and whole grains also helps to regulate weight and improve general well-being.
- Regular physical activity: exercise helps to control symptoms, reduce stress and improve sleep. Gentle activities such as walking, yoga or swimming may be particularly suitable.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): discussed and prescribed by a doctor, HRT can help balance hormone levels and alleviate the most disturbing symptoms of the menopause.
- Alternative therapies: acupuncture or herbal medicine can offer natural alternatives for managing symptoms, although their effectiveness can vary from person to person.
Redefining yourself:
The menopause can also be a time of personal redefinition. Many women find time for forgotten passions or discover new interests. It's also a time to strengthen social and family ties and to engage in enriching activities that give new meaning to life.
The menopause is not an end, but a beginning, marking the transition to a stage full of potential. By approaching this period with an informed and proactive attitude, every woman can transform her experience of the menopause into a period of fulfilment and renewal.
True or false: let's demystify the menopause!
The menopause is often surrounded by myths and misunderstandings that can blur the reality of what women are really going through. Here are some common assertions about the menopause, and let's see if they are true or false:
1. The menopause always starts at 50.
False. The average age of menopause is 51, but every woman is different. The menopause can start earlier or later, generally between the ages of 45 and 55. Some women may also experience a premature or medically induced menopause.
2. Hot flushes are the only symptom of the menopause.
False. Although hot flushes are among the best-known and most frequent symptoms of the menopause, they are far from the only one. Other symptoms can include night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood swings and changes in libido. Vaginal dryness is also a common symptom that can affect intimate life.
3. The menopause can be delayed with hormone treatments.
True and False: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help manage the symptoms of the menopause and give the impression of delaying its arrival, but it does not actually prolong a woman's reproductive capacity. Instead, HRT aims to compensate for the drop in reproductive hormones and relieve symptoms.
4. The menopause inevitably leads to weight gain.
False. Many women gain weight during the menopause, but this is not inevitable. Hormonal changes can slow down the metabolism and alter the distribution of body fat, favouring accumulation around the abdomen. However, with a balanced diet and regular exercise, it is possible to maintain a healthy weight.
5. Food supplements can replace HRT.
False. Although certain supplements can help manage certain menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes or sleep problems, they are not a substitute for TRH prescribed by a doctor. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or dietary supplement.
6. After the menopause, the risk of certain diseases increases.
This is true. After the menopause, women are more likely to develop certain conditions such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. This is partly due to the reduction in oestrogen, which has a protective effect on the heart and bones.
By better understanding the menopause, women can be better prepared to navigate this phase of their lives with confidence and health.