Here at AIM Women’s Wellness Center, we really focus on women’s health and we serve women through all stages of life.
From those early days when periods can be a real pain (literally!) to the sometimes challenging journey of trying to get pregnant, the unique difficulties of pregnancy, the complexities of postpartum, and the equally unique challenges of perimenopause and menopause, we’re your dedicated allies.
Last week, Denise had the privilege of chatting with Pao on “Creating Purpose with Pao” all about navigating the seasons of perimenopause and menopause.. She delved into the heart of this subject, shedding light on the differences between perimenopause and menopause, and the multitude of ways it affects a woman’s health.
Check out the interview below.
The Journey Through Menopause
As women journey through different stages of life, one of the most significant transitions they face is menopause. Yet, while it’s a natural part of aging, many remain in the dark about its intricacies and impacts.
The Phases Defined
Menopause signifies the “pausing” of the menstrual cycle. It’s the stage when the ovaries stop producing follicles and eggs, resulting in the cessation of ovulation. Perimenopause, on the other hand, is the transitional phase leading up to menopause. Often, it can start as early as age 35, and continue up to around 55. It’s a transformation akin to puberty but at the other end of the spectrum.
The Telltale Signs
Perimenopause can introduce a host of symptoms. As estrogen levels drop, many women experience changes in cognitive clarity, often referring to symptoms like ‘brain fog’ or bouts of forgetfulness. Physical manifestations like hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness are also common. Moreover, shifts in libido and challenges surrounding intimacy can also surface during this phase.
Duration and Beyond
Though perimenopause averages around four years, its duration can vary greatly, sometimes even stretching up to 15 years. The conclusion of this period is marked by the cessation of the menstrual cycle. However, menopause is not merely a phase but a lasting stage of life.
Broadening the Scope: Other Health Concerns
While the symptoms mentioned above are commonly associated with menopause, there are other crucial health aspects to consider:
Heart Health: With estrogen playing a pivotal role in mitigating inflammation, promoting cell protection, and aiding circulation, its decline during menopause elevates the risk of heart disease.
Bone Density: A decrease in estrogen levels also impacts bone health. Weight-bearing exercises and maintaining an active lifestyle can help counteract this.
Brain Health: Forgetfulness and cognitive changes aren’t limited to perimenopause but can extend into menopause as well.
Weight Gain: Many women notice an increase in weight, especially around the belly, during this transition. This weight gain can lead to inflammation and imbalances in sugar levels, further affecting overall health.
The Proactive Approach
The key takeaway is that awareness and proactive measures can make this transition smoother. By understanding potential health concerns and adopting a balanced lifestyle, women can navigate through menopause with grace and vigor.
While menopause signifies an end to a particular chapter, it doesn’t have to be approached with trepidation. With knowledge as our tool and wellness as our aim, we can embrace this journey, understanding that each phase of life brings its own unique beauty and challenges.
We love to help women take control of the symptoms and health risks of menopause. Menopause is different for every woman and our holistic approach enables us to treat each woman uniquely. Our practitioners address the underlying causes of menopause symptoms using natural therapies.
If you need help managing your menopause symptoms, please sign up for a free clarity session to see how we can help you.
