World Menopause Day is held on the 18th of October every year. The aim of the day is to raise awareness of menopause and the care options accessible for enhancing health and wellbeing.
What is Menopause?
Menopause, or the climacteric, is the time in a woman’s life when menses (menstrual periods) stop permanently. The age of menopause varies between 45 and 58, but the average is 51 years of age.
The shift to menopause can last between one and seven years. During the early transition to menopause, the levels of estrogen and progesterone often rise which causes breast tenderness, bloating, fluid retention, mood swings, and sleep problems.
Each person will undergo menopause differently. Many have full, active lives throughout the transition and afterward, and some feel relieved by no longer having to deal with menstruation or birth control.
What are the symptoms of Menopause?
Many women encounter physical symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hot flushes, night sweats, and a reduced sex drive. It can also lead to mood changes and anxiety, night sweats, weight gain, and brain fog. Sexual dysfunction, vaginal burning, and irritation, pain, and discomfort are further symptoms classified under the umbrella term genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)
How do you ease the symptoms of menopause?
Maintaining a healthy diet and getting regular exercise will boost overall health in the long term, and so will managing stress. For those who experience menopause symptoms, treatments and support are available, so speak to your physician.
Where to find help
The South African Menopause Society (SAMS) is a medical association of healthcare professionals dedicated to promoting women’s health during midlife and beyond.
The theme for 2021’s World Menopause Day is Bone Health. The IMS (International Menopause Society) provides further information on bone health here. You can find further information on Menopause Day here.
