When women are officially diagnosed as being "post menopausal," there is often the elated thought that the discomfort of menopause is finally over. Unfortunately, this is not often the case! Hormone levels will continue to fluctuate and different problems triggered by the lack of estrogen can start to occur. In this article, we'll examine some of the most common symptoms that women experience once they are past the "change of life" and simple ways to combat them.
Hot flashes are mostly caused by the hormonal changes of menopause, but can also be affected by lifestyle and medications. A diminished level of estrogen has a direct effect on the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for controlling your appetite, sleep cycles, sex hormones, and body temperature. Somehow the drop in estrogen confuses the hypothalamus, which is sometimes referred to as the body's "thermostat," and makes it read "too hot." Your heart pumps faster, the blood vessels in your skin dilate to circulate more blood to radiate off the heat, and your sweat glands release sweat to cool you off even more. Eighty-five percent of the women in the United States experience hot flashes of some kind as they approach menopause and for the first year or two after menstruating has stopped. One the post menopausal stage has been reached, this symptom should disappear.
Facial hair growth is a result of a change in the levels of estrogen and testosterone. Women also have low levels of testosterone, albeit in smaller amounts than men. Another complaint that women may experience is vaginal dryness. With the significant drop in estrogen after menopause, the membranes of the vagina thin, lose elasticity and decrease their production of lubricating fluids. Sexual intercourse may be uncomfortable or even painful. Pain with intercourse may be largely a result of soreness of the vulva, the area right outside your
While it can feel like you're at the mercy of your body, there are things you can do to minimize the impact of hormone fluctuations. Nutrition and exercise play a pivotal role in the health of women after menopause. It may mean being disciplined enough to make a significant change in your lifestyle, but you'll feel the results of your efforts. You should also start taking a multivitamin that is rich in Vitamin D, magnesium and folic acid. Vitamin D will help your body to absorb vitamins and minerals, especially bone building calcium that is so important. If you are battling night sweats, then take a cool shower before bed, wear cotton clothing to absorb sweat and keep yourself comfortable and dress in layers so you can remove clothing as you get hot. It may sound funny, but standing in front of the freezer or refrigerator will make you feel better.
The good news is that post menopause symptoms will ease over time. As doctors learn more about the symptoms of menopause, they are coming up with more effective ways to treat them. Whether you decide to get a hysterectomy, use antidepressants or other forms of medication, exercise and nutrition are a critical part of treating your symptoms. Most importantly, you must stay positive and enjoy your life. It will make a world of difference.
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