Menopause: the Biological clock

Embrace Every Change: Even Though It’s Uncomfortable

Like periods and pregnancy, menopause is a natural biological process that women go through. It happens in every woman's life and marks the end of their reproductive years. Let us know more about menopause and the care you should take during menopause.

What is Menopause?

If you are above the Age of 40 and have no cycle over the period of 12 months. It is called MENOPAUSE.

When Will It Happen?

It is a normal physiological process like the menstrual cycle and happens anytime after the age of 40.

How Long Does It Last?

It often begins at the age of 45 to 55 and can last up to 7 years or more.

Does It Affect Your Ability to Have Sex?

Yes, you can enjoy sex during and after menopause. You might feel some vaginal dryness or discomfort because of hormonal changes. You can speak to your gynecologist about using a lubricant or estrogen therapy to reduce the discomfort. Do not forget to use contraception as you are at risk of developing an infection and getting pregnant. During perimenopause, you can get pregnant.

What Are the Initial Symptoms of Menopause?

Common symptoms of Menopause are:

• Irregular Periods.
• Vaginal Dryness.
• Hot Flashes.
• Chills.
• Night sweating.
• Sleep problems.
• Weight gain.
• Mood changes.
• Muscle or joint pain because of reduced bone mineralization.

Can Diet Help in Menopause?

• Yes diet rich in healthy fatty acids, omegas can help in reducing menopause symptoms.
• Eat a diet rich in Calcium and take Vit D supplements to maintain bone health.
• Eat food rich in antioxidants like berries, cherries, tomatoes, bell peppers, and green leafy vegetables to reduce cell damage.
• Eat protein-rich food like nuts, lentils, legumes, poultry, and meat. They prevent loss of muscle mass because of hormonal changes in menopause.
• Keep yourself hydrated: it helps in weight loss and helps in managing hot flashes.

Can Exercise Help in Menopause?

Exercise keeps positive energy in your body and keeps

• Stress away.
• Healthy weight.
• Makes bone stronger.
• And make menopause smoother.

Menopause is a normal process which marks the end of your reproductive life. It can be uncomfortable because of all the changes that happen in your body. Speak to Dr. Sunita Arora gynecologist at Fortis La Femme Delhi NCR, if you suspect you might get menopause soon. She as an experienced gynecologist will advise you about both lifestyle changes and can prescribe some medicines to control symptoms of menopause. There are many hormonal therapies available that claim to reduce symptoms of menopause. Do Not take medicines without your gynecologist's advice. They may make your situation worse.