How Can Women Prepare Themselves For Smooth Menopause Journey?

Every woman needs to be aware of menopause, the natural biological process signifying the end of menstruation and fertility. It's an inevitable part of aging, typically occurring in your 40s or 50s. But it's not all doom and gloom - there's a lot you can do to manage this stage of life gracefully. Let's delve into why you need to be savvy about menopause. 

Firstly, understanding the signs of menopause can help you to better navigate and manage its symptoms. These might include irregular periods, mood changes, hot flashes, and trouble sleeping. It's also worth noting that these symptoms can sometimes start years before your final period.

"Knowledge is power. Being informed about menopause, its symptoms, and the ways to manage it can make the transition smoother," says Sudeshna Ray, Medical Director, Gytree.com

Secondly, being aware of menopause means you can make lifestyle changes that help to alleviate its symptoms. This might involve eating a balanced diet, maintaining regular physical activity, and practicing stress-reducing activities like yoga or meditation.

Regular Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help regulate your hormones, improve your mood, and even ease hot flashes. Plus, it’s fantastic for maintaining bone health, which can be a concern during menopause.

Healthy Eating: Keeping a close eye on your diet is particularly important during menopause. Foods high in Vitamin D and calcium are key for bone health, and you may also want to consider reducing caffeine and alcohol which can trigger hot flashes.

Stress-Reducing Activities: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can be a saving grace to manage any anxiety or mood changes associated with menopause.

Here are some numbers to think about

• Nearly 1.3 million women in the United States enter menopause each year
• Around 75% of women experience hot flashes during menopause
• Approximately 40% of women experience significant mood changes during menopause
• Average age of menopause is India is mid 40s, and early 40s
• About 50% of postmenopausal women suffer from vaginal dryness according to Harvard Health
• Almost 30% of women experience hair loss during menopause
• “We've noticed that people who are healthy overall, exercise well, sleep well and are in good relationships generally do pretty well in the menopausal transition,” Dr. Sands says to OSF Health.

Understanding menopause can empower you in your conversations with healthcare providers, allowing you to ask knowledgeable questions and choose the best treatment options for your individual needs.