Menopause, Just What Is It?
by Barbara
C. Phillips
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Simply stated, menopause is a biological event that marks the end of a
woman’s menses and hence her natural reproductive cycle. Perimenopause is
defined as the period beginning with the signs of approaching menopause
and ending about 12 months after “the menopause”.
Worldwide,
menopause has as a variety of meanings. Each and every woman’s experience
is based on her physical and emotional well being as well as her social
and cultural environments. While some view menopause as a decline in
status, others see it as a rite of passage. In other words, there are huge
physical, emotional and social influences involved in your experience of
menopause and aging.
That said, what you really want to know is –
“What will I experience”?
This is tricky, as the answer is
different for every woman. Some women barely notice a warm flush, while
others have an intense reaction. So as you read some of the more common
occurrences, please keep in mind – you will do you own thing.
- Power Surges, night sweats (they can be all day!) and chills
- Insomnia, and/or poor quality of sleep
- Urinary frequency, discomfort and sometimes leakiness
- Vaginal dryness, irritation and possibly discomfort with sexual
activity
- Moodiness. Perhaps some irritation, nervousness, anxiety and
depression.
- Diminished libido (sexual desire)
- Memory issues! Some women call this “the pause” (among other
things).
- Joint pain and stiffness
In case you think all the reactions are negative, take a look at some
of the more positive and more important changes that happen to women.
- Freedom
- Joy
- Greater sense of Creativity
- A sense of peace that has not been previously been present.
- Wisdom that only comes to those with time and conscious
living.
Just as there are many responses to the onset of menopause, there are
many approaches you can take to meet these changes. As with anything, you
must weigh any risk against the benefit (this is especially true when you
consider hormone therapy), your belief system, and finally, you must find
something that works for you.
Most approaches are common sense and
actions we need to take daily. Others are meant to challenge your thinking
and open your mind. Possible ways to approach menopause include:
- Healthy food and fluid intake.
- Nutriceuticals such as vitamins and herbal supplements
- Exercise at least 30 minutes daily.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine such has acupuncture, Chinese herbs, Qi
Gong and Tai Chi
- Adjust your attitude! Laugh and have fun. Hang out with your
girlfriends and delight in NOT being 25 again!
- Meditation, visualization and biofeedback
- Natural, Bio-identical and pharmaceutical grade hormone
therapy
This is a time of your life where you can count on change, and the
growth that comes from it. As the power surges through our bodies, we grow
into the women we are meant to be. We fulfill our goals and move on to
make new ones. While our focus is inward, our outward gaze sharpens and
our dreams are manifested for all to celebrate. It really is a magnificent
time.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
©2005 Barbara C. Phillips, MN, NP, a Nurse Practitioner with nearly
30 years experience is the Founder of OlderWiserWomen, LLC. She asks: Are
you living with Vibrant Intent? Do you want to experience the Joy, Magic,
and Wisdom of Successful Aging? You are invited to Celebrate with us as we
explore these issues and more. http://www.OlderWiserWomen.com
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