This stage is all yours

Sleeplessness, trouble regulating temperature, sudden mood swings… can you guess if I’m talking about infancy, pregnancy or menopause? I’ll give you a hint, I think it’s the best life-stage of the three!

And the answer is…. menopause.

“But that has the worst rap” you say? Well we have some good news for you that will change your perspective, along with some of the dry facts that will help you have a better understanding of what menopause is.

Let’s start with the basics. Menopause normally occurs in women age 45 – 55, it’s a time in your life when your periods eventually stop and your body goes through changes that no longer allow you to get pregnant.

Since this usually occurs for women starting about the age of 45, you may not be thinking about it yet, but it’s never too early to prepare your body. So, whether you’re a woman who’s main concern at the moment is choosing a birth control method that’s right for you, a woman getting ready to start a family or a woman noticing the first signs of menopause, we hope that this post will shed some light on the subject and help you to embrace this natural chapter of your life.

Let’s start with the basics: the common signs and which include:

  • Hot flashes & Night Sweats
  • Insomnia
  • Headaches
  • Irregular or missed periods
  • Decreased bone density, potentially leading to osteoporosis
  • Mood changes
  • Anxiety
  • Forgetfulness
  • Lack of focus / concentration
  • Dryness and thinning of the vaginal wall, which can lead to pain or discomfort during intercourse

These symptoms can be intense or mild. As no two women are the same, neither will the signs, symptoms and treatments be. That being said there are a number of things that we suggest to do to help your body adjust to menopause.

  • Maintain a healthy diet
  • Maintain a regular fitness routine: Walking, jogging, swimming, yoga and weightlifting are all good choices
  • Keep to a regular sleep schedule, even on vacation days
  • If you smoke, QUIT!
  • Make an appointment with your doctor to find a treatment that is best for you

Now for the good news! Yes, there is a light at the end of the heat filled, sleep deprived, mood altering tunnel!

American anthropologist Margaret Mead called it “menopausal zest” which many describe as a rush of energy, physically and emotionally. It’s been noted that many women experience desire for new adventures, new beginnings and a rejuvenated sexual appetite.

And this is why we think it’s the best of the three time periods above: it’s like starting over in life, with all the hard earned wisdom you’ve learned along the way (and without the restrictions of a parent or parenting). Plus sex without worry of pregnancy is nice too!