Nigeria Health & Lifstyle




MENOPAUSE

Menopause signals the end of fertile phase in a woman’s life. It is triggered when the ovaries stop functioning due to age or the surgical removal of the ovaries leading to reduction in hormone (estrogen) production.

The normal age for occurrence of menopause is between 45 and 55 years but some women may experience menopause as early as 35 years.

Premenopausal symptoms include:
• Hot flashes or flushes- feeling of heat in the upper body that may last for few minutes as a result of sudden increase in body temperature
• Minor decrease in the ability to concentrate or remember
• Night sweats, loss of sleep, tiredness and mood changes
• Diminished sexual drive or loss of interest
• Headache and joint pains
• Bones become thin and fractures easily.
• Frequent urination
• Increase in total cholesterol level which may contribute to heart disease.
• Crawling sensation or feeling of needle pricks under the skin or skin dryness
• Depression and anxiety.



Coping With Menopause
• Education – women should be aware of what to expect during pre menopausal period by their physician or health providers, this will help them cope better
• Hormone replacement therapy may be considered by the doctor if severe symptoms occur, and should not be administered for more than three years.
• Counseling is conducted for people with depression.
• Use of non perfumed vaginal moisturizers and lubricants such as k – y jelly can help with vaginal dryness during sexual intercourse.
• Diet – healthy diet is advised by eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and to avoid overeating carbohydrates and fatty foods.
• Practice simple exercise
• Avoid hot flush triggers such as hot drinks, caffeine, spicy food
• Drink cold liquids
• Dress lightly to avoid excessive sweat especially at night
• Keep your bedroom cool at night
• Reduce stress level
• Get plenty of rest and relaxation





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