Menopause

Menopause is defined as the absence of a menstrual period for 12 months. Once in menopause, ovulation ceases and there is a decrease in the primary sex hormones, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. During menopause it is important to focus on self-care and to find holistic ways to manage the discomforts your body is experiencing.

51 years is the average age Australian women become menopausal

According to the Royal Australian and New Zealand Collage of Obstertricians and Gynacologists, most women become menopausal between the ages of 45 and 60 with the average age for Australian and New Zealand women being 51 years. Menopause is often referred to as the 'change of life' because it marks the end of a woman's productive life.

The stages of menopause

Perimenopause can begin 8 to 10 years before menopause, when the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. It lasts up until menopause, the point when the ovaries stop releasing eggs

Menopause is described when a woman no longer has menstrual periods. At this stage, the ovaries have stopped releasing eggs and producing most of their estrogen.

Post menopause is the period of time after a woman has not bled for an entire year (the rest of your life after going through menopause).

The most common symptoms of menopause

Women can experience many different symptoms during the perimenopause and menopause phases.

Hot flushes & night sweats

Mood changes, fatigue, depression & anxiety

Vaginal dryness and decreased libido

Top 5 tips to combat menopause symptoms

Consider yoga, it has been proven to promote a reduction in stress, improve your mood & promote sound sleep
Incorporate daily movement, exercise helps to strengthen, tone and improve bone density
Remove stimulants such as caffeine & spicy foods, these are common triggers for hot flashes & night sweats
Try herbal remedies such as Dong Qui & Rehmannia, these are known female tonics and hormone stabilisers
Drink enough water, during menopause women often experience dryness caused by a decrease in estrogen levels