
What Your Mama Never Told You about Menopause by Simone Kelly
Ladies, at some point in your youth, you might have heard the ‘grown folks’ refer to it as The Change, The Big M, or The Pause. Unfortunately, many of us don’t know what to expect because menopause wasn’t discussed enough at home.
I sure don’t remember my mother ever bringing it up as a topic of discussion. One of my girlfriends, in her late 40’s, asked her mom about it and the mother replied, “I can’t talk about that with you. That’s private!” lol You can’t make this stuff up!
In fact, the National Institute of Health reports that 94.1% of women were never taught about menopause in school, and 49.0% do not feel informed about it at all. Even though 51% of the population will experience menopause, medical schools often overlook this crucial aspect of women’s health. A 2021 report found that, in the UK, only 59% of medical schools included mandatory menopause education in their curriculum.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is the stage in a woman’s life when menstrual cycles permanently cease, marking the end of reproductive years. This occurs after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, typically happening between the ages of 45 and 55. Menopause is a natural biological process, though it can also result from medical interventions like hysterectomy or chemotherapy.
Here are 10 common symptoms:
- Irregular Periods: Menstrual cycles may become irregular, with periods that are longer, shorter, heavier, or lighter than usual.
- Hot Flashes: Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and a red, flushed face. You might need a fan more often! Lol
- Night Sweats: Hot flashes that occur during sleep, often causing waking and discomfort.
- Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early.
- Mood Changes: Increased irritability, anxiety, or depression.
- Vaginal Dryness: Decreased lubrication, leading to discomfort or pain during intercourse.
- Decreased Libido: Reduced interest in sexual activity.
- Weight Gain: Especially around the abdomen, even with no changes in diet or exercise.
- Memory Problems: Difficulty concentrating or forgetfulness.
- Thinning Hair: Hair loss or thinning on the scalp and other parts of the body.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause, or the “transition phase,” precedes menopause and can last anywhere from a few months to over a decade. During this time, the ovaries gradually reduce hormone production, causing irregular menstrual cycles and various symptoms due to fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels.
Symptoms of Perimenopause:
- Irregular periods
- Heavy or light menstrual flow
- Breast tenderness
- Increased premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Mood swings
- Hot flashes
- Sleep issues
- Weight gain
Thank goodness for the internet, since there are entire podcasts and communities discussing it now. The show we did covered so much about it. Menopause and perimenopause can bring a variety of symptoms due to the hormonal changes occurring in the body.
Before you freak out and run to Web MD, these symptoms can vary in intensity and duration from person to person. Some people are even lucky enough to get the bare minimum of what’s on this list. If symptoms are particularly bothersome, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for management and treatment options. However, we have a natural remedy that we’d love to share!
Natural Remedies for Menopause and Perimenopause Symptoms
While hormonal shifts are inevitable, natural remedies can ease the transition and alleviate symptoms. Here are 10 effective options:
- Black Cohosh: Known for its ability to reduce hot flashes and night sweats, this herb has been used for centuries to support hormonal balance.
- Red Clover: Rich in phytoestrogens, red clover may help alleviate hot flashes and improve bone health.
- Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb supports stress management, which can stabilize mood swings and promote better sleep.
- Chamomile Tea: Known for its calming properties, chamomile tea can help with sleep disturbances and reduce anxiety.
- Flaxseed: High in omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, flaxseed can support hormonal balance and reduce hot flashes.
- Soy Products: Foods like tofu and edamame contain isoflavones, plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen and can help with hot flashes and bone density.
- Maca Root: Used traditionally for boosting energy and libido, maca root may also alleviate mood swings and hot flashes.
- Vitamin D and Calcium: These are crucial for maintaining bone density, especially during and after menopause.
- Healthy Fats: Incorporate omega-3-rich foods like salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds to reduce inflammation and improve mood.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity helps manage weight, improve mood, and maintain bone and heart health.
Since many of us are on the go and don’t always have time to cook up our own magic potions. I have a two quick fixes that work magic for me!
Black Girl Vitamin’s MENO CHILLis a trusted solution for managing menopause symptoms. This supplement is specifically designed for women navigating this life stage, offering targeted support for hot flashes, mood swings, and hormonal imbalances. MENO CHILL’s thoughtfully curated ingredients provide relief while empowering women to feel their best during menopause and perimenopause. It Includes herbs like Black Cohost and Ashwagandha. It’s 100% Vegan and Doctor Approved! Save 20% when you buy it here.
Additionally, our wellness partner, Earth Sea and Wellness has an amazing Green Sea Moss with Moringa Leaf- This incredible combination is rich in chlorophyll which helps the body improve healthy blood, boost energy, and heal wounds. Moringa Leaf (called the tree of life) helps to prevent over 300 diseases. It’s anti-tumor, anemia-fighting, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, anti-depressant, aids in weight loss, and more.
Moringa and sea moss together provide a powerhouse of nutrients that can help manage menopause symptoms. Moringa’s phytoestrogens and high calcium content support hormone balance and bone health, while its anti-inflammatory properties and essential vitamins boost energy and mood.
Sea moss complements this by supporting thyroid function with iodine and selenium, enhancing skin health, and strengthening the immune system with its rich array of vitamins and minerals. Together, they offer a holistic approach to easing menopause symptoms and promoting overall well-being.
Save 10% with our link-Head to their Seamoss page.
Lifestyle Tips for Managing Symptoms
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help with bloating and dry skin.
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Reduce Caffeine and Alcohol: Both can trigger hot flashes and disrupt sleep.
- Practice Mindfulness and Yoga: These activities can reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
When to Consult Your Doctor
While many symptoms of menopause and perimenopause are manageable with natural remedies, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for:
- Severe Symptoms: If hot flashes, mood swings, or other symptoms significantly affect your quality of life, a doctor may recommend hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other treatments.
- Irregular Bleeding: Heavy or prolonged bleeding during perimenopause should be evaluated to rule out other conditions like fibroids or endometrial hyperplasia.
- Bone Health: Discuss bone density testing to prevent osteoporosis.
- Heart Health: Estrogen fluctuations can increase cardiovascular risks, so regular checkups are crucial.
- Customized Treatment Plans: If natural remedies don’t provide relief, your doctor can guide you toward other options, including prescription medications.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- What are the best treatments for my symptoms?
- Should I consider hormone replacement therapy?
- Are there specific lifestyle changes I should make to support my health during this transition?
- Do I need any screenings or tests based on my symptoms or age?
We know it’s a lot to take in but it can be a relief so many who had symptoms and didn’t connect the dots. Navigating menopause and perimenopause doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the differences between these phases, recognizing symptoms, and exploring natural remedies like Green Sea Moss with Moringa Leaf and Black Girl Vitamins MENO CHILL, you can manage this transition with greater ease. Partner with your healthcare provider to ensure your unique needs are met and embrace this phase as a new chapter in health and wellness.
Check out the latest podcast we just did on the topic and learn from our experts.
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