MENOPAUSE TRANSITION

   Menopause is a natural change in a woman's life and the end of her fertility. The menopause transition, also called peri menopause ( around menopause ) includes both the period leading up to menopause and menopause itself. In common usage, however, menopause often refers to the entire transition.
   Most women start peri menopause in their 40's, but some do so as late as their 60's. In most cases, menstruation ceases gradually. Because of the erratic production of hormones, a woman may skip periods, bleed at odd times, or have extra heavy periods. A small number of women stop menstruation abruptly, almost overnight . Each woman's menopause experience is different.
   The most common menopause related discomfort is the hot flash( sometimes called a hot flush), which may be followed by a cold chill. Those symptoms disrupts sleep and sap energy. Some women get a few hot flashes for a year or two around the time of the menopause transition. Others suffer for many years, and a very small percentage report occasional hot flashes for the rest of their lives.
Because of fluctuating hormones , a woman may also experience depression and mood swings, resulting in weepiness, as well as poor concentration and lapses in memory.
   How do you cope with menopause challenges? . Simple lifestyle changes may reduce some discomforts. For example, smokers can stop smoking and decrease the number of hot flashes. Many women also benefit from dietary changes such as - limiting or avoiding alcohol, caffeine , and spicy or sugary foods, which can trigger hot flashes.
   Eating well ( having a balanced and varied diet) and exercise can also be a big help in reducing menopausal symptoms. For instance , it can reduce insomnia and foster significant improvements in mood, as well as in bone strength and general health.
   It is comforting to note that the menopause transition is temporary. Women who continue to take good care of their health may find renewed energy and enjoy many more years of quality life.
Culled from menopause guidebook