When women attain a stage in their lives, there is a pause. A pause in reproduction and the frequency of ‘many’ other things, one of which is menopause.
Menopause typically announces itself during middle age, signaling the end of the reproductive years for women. It is a natural process that occurs when the ovaries cease to produce eggs, leading to a permanent cessation of the menstrual cycle. Despite this, menopause is not considered a disease by experts and is often “over-medicalized.”
In many parts of the world, women go through menopause without the need for medical interventions. However, in high-income countries like the UK, menopause is often viewed as a medical issue or hormone-deficiency disorder, with long-term health risks that are managed through hormone replacement therapy.
When It Eventually Happens
While it is known that bone density decreases after menopause, the extent to which menopause at the average age increases the risk of other chronic conditions such as diabetes, dementia, or cardiovascular disease remains uncertain.
A co-author of the series from the University of Melbourne and Royal Women’s Hospital, Professor Martha Hickey drummed up the need to challenge the misconception of menopause as always being a medical problem associated with physical and mental decline. Instead, she advocated for viewing menopause as a natural part of healthy aging, empowering women to navigate this life stage with confidence and reducing fear and trepidation among those approaching menopause.
She further stressed that menopause should not be considered a disease, particularly in a society with strong perceptions about aging and women.
Those At Risk
“If a woman started her period before the age of 11, she is at a higher risk of undergoing early menopause,”
Certain groups of people are at a heightened risk of experiencing menopause, according to experts. Chemotherapy or radiation therapy can trigger menopause, as can the surgical removal of ovaries. A family history of early menopause, such as instances where a mother, grandmother, or sister experienced it prematurely, can also increase the likelihood.
Other factors also play a role. Women who began menstruating before the age of 11 are at a higher risk of undergoing early menopause. Smoking is another significant factor, with smokers typically experiencing menopause about two years earlier than nonsmokers. However, this doesn’t mean that menopause will necessarily occur before the age of 45 in all cases.
Furthermore, certain autoimmune diseases and genetic mutations have been linked to early menopause, adding to the complexity of risk factors associated with this natural phase of life.
Managing The Symptoms
Managing menopause symptoms can be challenging, but there are several strategies that black women (and women in general) can use to cope and live with it:
1. Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can help alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
2. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help manage symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.
3. Hormone therapy: Some women find relief from symptoms through hormone therapy, but it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.
4. Mind-body techniques: Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
5. Herbal remedies: Some women find relief from symptoms using herbal supplements like black cohosh or evening primrose oil, but it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before trying these remedies.
6. Seek support: Talking to friends, family, or a therapist about the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause can provide support and validation.
7. Educate yourself: Understanding the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause can help women better manage symptoms and navigate this stage of life.
8. Stay informed: Keeping up-to-date with reliable information about menopause and its treatments can empower women to make informed decisions about their health.
9. Medical treatment: For severe symptoms, such as vaginal dryness or mood swings, medical treatments like hormone therapy or antidepressants may be recommended by a healthcare provider.
10. Regular check-ups: Regular visits to a healthcare provider can ensure that any symptoms or concerns are addressed promptly and that women receive appropriate care during this transitional phase of life.
Remember, every woman’s experience with menopause is unique, so it’s important to find the combination of strategies that works best for you. Consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and support.
