Menopause: Your Own Private Summers

I watched with great wonder as my friend Marsha came to work last February through the snow in a sleeveless dress. “I have my own private summers,” she shared with me while fanning herself wildly as beads of sweat formed on her brow.  Now, I like hot weather, but I’m not looking forward to my own private summers when even snow can't stop the heat! Yet as time marches on I know what’s ahead – menopause!

When does menopause begin?
Menopause is considered to have occurred after one year without a menstrual period. The average age of menopause in the U.S. is around 51, but that can vary drastically from one woman to the next. The time prior to actual menopause is called perimenopause. Symptoms vary from non-existent in some to severe in others and may last a brief time or up to five to ten years. And unfortunately, once menopause has occurred the symptoms may continue for many years in some women. It is impossible to predict how different women will be affected.

Common signs of menopause
The most common signs of menopause include hot flashes, sleeplessness, fatigue, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. Relief can be found in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) if you and your medical provider decide this is right for you. But, the use of HRT has been met with controversy in recent years due to the increased rate of breast cancers among its users. Therefore, the latest recommendation is to use HRT for symptom relief only for the limited years that symptoms are an issue. If HRT is not right for you, relief may be found in other medications, some herbal preparations, or even meditation and simple awareness of this next phase of life. All therapies should be researched and discussed with your healthcare provider. Education and knowledge are your greatest resources to making it through this transition of life.

There are benefits
Personally, I am looking forward to the decline in migraine headaches that menopause brings with it. Also, I think not worrying about birth control will be liberating. And, not having periods will be outstanding! Maybe I can find a way to enjoy my own private summers – I’ll just need to find my own private tropical island. Hopefully, you can too.