Menopause

Menopause is the stage of life that follows the end of the menstrual cycles. Each person may experience menopause differently. Menopause is not a health problem but a natural transition. However, it can involve unwanted physical and mental changes.

Lifestyle Tips

Tips for managing the challenges of menopause include:

• Getting regular exercise
• Practicing relaxation and deep breathing exercises
• Having a healthful diet with fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke
• Limiting the intake of alcohol
• Seeking counseling for anxiety, mood changes, and relationship concerns
• Establishing good sleeping habits and getting plenty of rest
• Doing Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor
• Talking to friends and family about the experience of menopause
• Exploring new ways of enjoying intimacy with a partner
• Joining a club, volunteering, or taking up a new hobby

Post Menopause

After menopause, you will no longer be able to get pregnant and you will no longer get a period. If you have any type of vaginal bleeding after menopause, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Vaginal bleeding after menopause is not normal and can mean that you have a serious health problem.

You may experience any of the following after menopause:

• Low hormone levels: With menopause, your ovaries make very little estrogen and progesterone. This can increase your risk for osteoporosis, heart disease, and stroke.
• Menopause symptoms instead of period problems: After menopause, most women get relief from period problems, but symptoms like hot flashes may continue. Some studies show they can last up to 14 years post-menopause.