It's Women’s Health Week from 5-11 September and we are raising awareness about perimenopause and menopause. Most people with a uterus start going through perimenopause (the phase before menopause) between 45 and 55 years but some might be later, or earlier. Menopause is a normal phase when you stop ovulating (getting your periods) for 12 months or more.
Everyone going through perimenopause and menopause has a different journey but for some, the symptoms can affect their quality of life. People going through perimenopause may be working and supporting dependent children as well as elderly parents. Their lives are busy and fluctuating symptoms can make it difficult to function.
This is an important time for a check-up with your GP to help manage any symptoms and consider preventative health issues including bone and cardiovascular health, as risks increase after menopause.
Symptoms
Perimenopause and menopause symptoms vary for each person but can include:
- hot flushes and night sweats, and poor sleep
- changes to period – can very extremely heavy to irregular and light.
- mood changes (including anxiety, irritation, and depression which can be severe)
- forgetfulness
- headaches
- sore breasts
- aches and pains
- dry vagina and reduced sex drive
- dry, itchy skin
- weight gain
- tiredness.
Management
There are several options for the management of symptoms including:
- maintaining a healthy diet and drinking lots of water
- regular sleep routine
- exercising most days
- when you feel hot
- use a fan or water spray
- wear layered clothing and take layers off
- relaxation classes like yoga and meditation
- psychological therapies if needed
- medication (menopausal hormone therapy).
Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), previously known as Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT, is safe for most people with a uterus in their 40s and 50s or for the first 10 years after the onset of perimenopause. There are many different types of MHT available including patches, tablets, gels, implants and natural therapies. Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of MHT for you as an individual. Many people find MHT medication life-changing and can function, and feel like themselves, again. Other medications, such as antidepressants, can help to manage mood and reduce hot flushes and sweating.
For more information
Speak to your GP or visit:
Dr Rebecca Goodman is a GP at Bulli Medical Practice. As well as her qualifications in medicine and general practice, she has a Bachelor of Pharmacy and Master of Public Health. Rebecca has a special interest in Women’s and Children’s Health and has a Diploma in Child Health and a Certificate of Reproductive and Sexual Health and can provide Implanon and IUD insertions. In her free time, when she’s not chasing after her own children, Rebecca likes to travel, read and spend time with family and friends.
