Menopause is Not the End

Menopause is nothing new. Yet there are still so many myths about this natural transformation, that we still have many women who are actually misinformed. The more information that is published about this part of a women life cycle the better. Women need to know it is natural and nothing horrible is going to happen to them when this happens. Some women actually celebrate this cycle in life.

Menopause is defined as the period of permanent cessation of menstruation, usually occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. The age is not factual and can change. Women are no longer able to bear children. Hormones estrogen and progesterone levels are low during menopause. The decrease in the hormone levels is what causes the symptoms that women feel.

The common complaints are night sweats, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and sleeplessness. There are symptoms can range from minor to major discomforts. A physician can assist women with treatments and therapies to make them more comfortable. Hormone replacement therapy has been a popular method for years. The side effects of HRT have decreased its popularity among many women. The Mayo Clinic describes HRT (Hormone replacement therapy) as; "medications containing female hormones to replace the ones the body no longer makes after menopause '" used to be a standard treatment for women with hot flashes and other menopause symptoms. There are advantage and disadvantages to HRT and should be researched before choosing this an option. Women who choose to go through menopause naturally have a variety of options for example herbs, soy, and vitamin E.

Menopause is not the end. Menopause (the change) is not horrible. Most women go through menopause with minor symptoms. Information is more plentiful than ever before about menopause. Discuss your options with your physician. Be specific when asking questions of your physician to get the best advice. Forums and chat rooms are also great for information and talking with peers who can understand. Be informed and not afraid, there is help available.