Menopause

Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s aging process, occurring after age 40. Menopause is the cessation of the menstrual cycle that occurs when a woman no longer has functioning eggs in her ovaries. As a result, the ovaries produce less estrogen and progesterone, which can produce symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and eventual osteoporosis.

There are several treatments and lifestyle changes that can help a woman through menopause, including:

  • Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy may be prescribed to restore estrogen and progesterone and help reduce symptoms. Hormone therapy can also be used to treat osteoporosis and heart disease.
  • Dietary Changes: Eating healthy can reduce or prevent some of the symptoms during menopause. It is important to get enough calcium, take additional iron supplements, eat enough fiber, eat the daily-recommended servings of fruits and vegetables, limit foods high in fat and drink plenty of water.
  • Exercise: Exercise and weight loss can help reduce mood swings and insomnia, as well as lower cholesterol levels.
  • Controlling Stress and Anxiety: Controlling stress and anxiety helps reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes.