Menopause usually occurs between 45 to 55 years old. During this time, there are a lot of changes to your body, particularly during the perimenopause phase, which occurs before menopause sets in. Menopause itself is only characterised as after you have stopped having your period for 12 consecutive months.
To help you prepare for this phase of your life, you’ll want to know the common symptoms and also how to prepare and manage them during this time of life.
The Perimenopause Period
The perimenopause period includes many of the same symptoms as menopause. You will experience hot flashes, possible weight gain, and irregular periods. You won’t know you are in menopause until your periods have stopped, for at least 12 months, at which point the likeliness of another period is exceptionally slim.
Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are experienced by 75% of women during menopause. These hot flashes can come with other symptoms, like joint pain or mood swings. Though hot flashes are common, we are not yet sure yet what causes them, as there are several factors at play, from hormone changes to age.
You can reduce the severity and frequency of hot flashes by avoiding things like alcohol or caffeine, spicy food, stress, or being in the heat. Wearing layers can help you manage hot flashes as they happen, so you can undress to cool down.
Changes to Your Bone Health
Bone density decreases naturally as you age, but it becomes worse during menopause due to the decline in oestrogen production. This decline can reduce the amount of calcium in your system and can even lead to osteoporosis. The result is fragile bones that are now susceptible to bone fractures, particularly in the hip or spine.
Increase your intake of vitamin D, eat more food that contains calcium, especially dark leafy greens, exercise regularly, and try to reduce or eliminate your intake of nicotine and alcohol.
The Possibility of Hair Loss
There are many causes of hair loss in women. Birth control, pregnancy, childbirth, PCOS – but one of the most common causes is menopause. Thankfully the fix for this hair loss is rather straightforward. You can simply go to an excellent clinic like The Harley Street Hair Clinic, have a hair loss consultation, and in most instances, be recommended the FUE hair transplant procedure. This procedure is minimally invasive, and thanks to the anesthetic, painless.
How Menopause Can Affect Your Heart
Finally, be prepared for how menopause can impact your heart. You may experience mild symptoms like dizziness or cardiac palpitations. If your oestrogen levels decrease enough, then your body may be unable to retain flexible arteries. Reducing the risk is the best way to prepare for these conditions. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, exercising regularly, and cutting out smoking are all excellent tips to help you maintain a healthy heart.
Menopause is a big change to your body, but knowing what to expect and how to adjust your routine can help you live a long, healthy life.
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