What is menopause?
Menopause is when a woman stops having their period. This is a natural part of aging that usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.
Who goes through menopause?
Every woman will go through menopause at some stage in their life. For many women, menopause can have a significant impact on their daily lives as they suffer from several symptoms, and for others, menopause may not cause any symptoms at all.
The only women who will not go through this are women who have has their ovaries removed before puberty.
When can symptoms start, and how long do they last?
Symptoms of menopause typically begin between the ages of 45 – 55. It is common to notice a change in the regularity of your periods before any symptoms occur – this is called perimenopause. Symptoms of menopause can last for months and even years. It is also possible that the symptoms may change as time passes.
What are the common symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause?
Symptoms of menopause and perimenopause can be both physical and mental.
Physical symptoms can include:
- Hot flushes
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headaches & migraines
- Muscle aches & Joint pains
- Weight gain
- Recurring UTI’s
- Reduced sex drive
Mental symptoms can include:
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Brain fog
Treatments for the symptoms of menopause
One of the main medicines used to treat menopause and perimenopause symptoms is hormone replacement therapy. This replaces the hormones that are at low levels in the body.
There are also natural steps you can take to alleviate & reduce symptoms of menopause & perimenopause.
Exercise before and during menopause can prevent weight gain, reducing the risk of other illnesses caused by obesity.
You will also experience improved cardiovascular health and reduced bone loss, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
What are the best alternative treatments & Exercises?
Cardio and strength training are great ways to prevent ailments from developing as you go through menopause.
Pilates is a great mix of both strength & cardio as it uses your body weight to strengthen your core and improve overall health with a low chance of injury.
How can massage therapy help with the symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause?
Menopausal and perimenopausal women are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression due to low mood. Regular massage treatments can help alleviate these symptoms along with many other mental health problems by reducing stress, boosting feel-good hormones, and restoring positive feelings and emotions.
Are there any other ways of dealing with symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause?
Other than exercising regularly, having a healthy diet, and making time for yourself to look after your mental health, getting get plenty of rest, talking to other people going through the same thing, and talking to your doctor can help you too.
How can we help you?
At Total Health Fitness & Massage, we offer personal training, exercise classes, and a variety of massage therapies to help you keep fit, relax, and look after your overall health.
We can tailor your sessions to suit your lifestyle, abilities, and preferences whether that is exercise or massage – or both!
Contact Amelia to book a session and to learn more about how our services could benefit you.
Call | 0780 922 5017 or email | amelia.bailey75@gmail.com
If you would like to find out more information about menopause and perimenopause, visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/
