Menopause as a New Beginning, or What to Expect from It

So, menopause. It's something that hits every woman; it's something that changes the way a woman's body works; and it's something that's normal. In simple terms, menopause is a woman's retirement. It gives a "vacation" to the body, which has worked hard for several years for the benefit of reproduction. Would you really be afraid or not want such a vacation for yourself?Menopause is a natural transition period when a woman's body stops producing eggs and hormone levels, such as estrogen and progesterone, begin to decline. Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.

Often the first signs of menopause are irregular or easier menstrual periods, and then they stop completely. These are the main physical changes during this period. However, there are other signs to look out for. Some of these may include hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, decreased libido, mood changes, and vaginal dryness.

Flushes are another one of nature's "gifts" to a woman after the torment of periods, childbirth, and hormonal waves. It's as if nature saw a woman's power and decided to give her a challenge to understand its limits. Hot flashes are a sudden feeling of heat in the face, neck, and chest area. They come with sweating and palpitations. They are unpleasant, affect a woman's quality of life, and can last up to 30 minutes—and that's bad news. The good news is that they eventually go away with time.

And of course, it's never been more important to affirm that we're all different. Not all bodies respond to menopause in the same way. For some women, symptoms may be fairly mild and not cause significant discomfort. In others, they may be more intense and require assistance. It's another roll of the dice of fate, and how menopause will play out for you is unclear and, in some ways, peculiar.

"So menopause is coming and I'm just living my normal life?" you might ask. Oh, you wish. You need to change your lifestyle, or rather, refine it. The regulars come to the rescue with proper nutrition, moderate physical activity, and stress-relieving practices like meditation, tea ceremonies, or simple recreation.Well, and do not forget about foods that increase the flushes. Spicy seasonings, caffeine, and alcohol should be reduced in consumption or, better yet, excluded from the diet altogether.

Menopause is talked about in only three ways: it is silent, it is rarely talked about, or it is whispered about in fear because it is something very scary. One of the first speculations is that menopause occurs at the same age for all women. If in adolescence it is still forgivable to believe that everything in life happens on a single schedule, then in adulthood it is a mauvais ton. Remember again: your body is special, and the start of your menopause depends on genetics, lifestyle, and other factors.

The second false horror of menopause is that it makes everyone look like old and forlorn women. The reality is that these changes are noticeable, but we live in a wonderful world of science and medicine. The modern health and beauty industry allows women to maintain their great fitness and energy. You just need to know the tools.

The third misconception is that there is no chance of getting pregnant during menopause, so there is no need for protection. First of all, you should not forget about contraceptives because, with menopause, you don't get a magical barrier against all STDs. Secondly, the chance of getting pregnant can persist during pre-menopause, when a woman's body can still release eggs on a regular basis. If you are not planning to conceive, it's best to see your doctor to discuss your options.

The fourth myth says that menopause ruins teeth, hair, and skin. It is not necessary to throw it on because it is all part of the body's natural aging process. There is a way out now: invest in your future and start taking thorough care of your teeth, hair, and skin. Add to this physical activity, proper nutrition, and the use of care cosmetics, and you will be the gorgeous mommy that all daddies wish for.

And the fifth myth for an appetizer: menopause only happens to women. In fact, it does, as the term is used for changes in the reproductive system. However, men also go through a periodic change called andropause. Briefly, it is a decrease in testosterone levels. It is not menopause in the usual sense, but an analogy.