Preparation
and Pre-Menopause Menopause
can be roughly divided into three phases:
 Peri-meno (or pre-menopause)
Menopause proper
Post menopause
At what age does it begin?
The onset can be as early as 35 but normally in 40's or early 50's.
How long does it last?
Again very variable. 2 - 6 years or even longer. It depends very much on the individual
- hereditary factors are also involved
Preparation
Preparation for menopause is so important, if we are prepared we can cope more
easily with any problems which may eventuate.
Acceptance
The first major hurdle is acceptance
'I am now entering a new era of my life'
Fears
The second hurdle to overcome is fear of:
A major decline in health.
No longer being attractive
to your partner.
If unattached - being unable
to attract a partner
Pain and inconvenience with
various transitional symptoms, eg flooding, flushes
Weight gain
Loss of libido.
The good news is that a woman's attraction does not decline swiftly,
nor does it mark the advent of a decline in health into old age. Weight
gain is not mandatory. With a good diet - and an exercise program which
is enjoyable, a calm and happy outlook on life , the transit time can
be a less painful period in every way. Neither does it mean the end of
a woman's sex life, or love life - on the contrary, after a period
of doubtful interest and low libido will follow increased enjoyment. The
change is not a disease and if managed properly, any symptoms, which may
be experienced, can be kept to a level which is manageable.
If you have
Well balanced family relationships
A good healthy diet and
are well nourished
The ability to relax and
enjoy life and cope well with your lifestyle
A supportive partner or
friends and family - your symptoms will be significantly reduced, and will help
transform you into this new and exciting phase of your life.
Benefits
Before looking at the symptoms and problems which you may encounter, let's
first look at the benefits of the post menopausal years which, as our life expectancy
increases (these days it is an average of 80) a third of our lives may be post
menopausal.
No more menstruation, or
PMT
No fears of pregnancy.
The family have grown and your
responsibilities in that respect have diminished.
You may be experiencing the
joys of being a grandparent.
You are free to spend time
doing the things that you enjoy, and may not have had time for in your younger
years.
You have gained half a lifetime
of wisdom through your experiences.
In short the post menopausal part of a woman's life can be called the
‘GOLDEN AGE' - one of increased contentment and enjoyment of life.
Indeed many famous women have only begun their major life's work in their
mature years
Early Menopause (before 40)
Some of the causes may be
Mother had an early menopause
Hysterectomy or other gynaecological
surgery
Irregular periods in 30's
Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Poor diet
Severe stress
Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
The onset of early menopause can cause, initially disbelief, then anger and
resentment, which could be ongoing. Physical consequences, you may be more vulnerable
to osteoporosis and heart disease. If psychological symptoms persist, please seek
counselling from a sympathetic doctor or a counsellor.
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