Menopause

The word  menopause refers to the end of menstruation - the time of your last period. For most women the transition period can span fifteen to twenty years before, during and after the menopause.

The average age of the menopause in the UK is Fifty-one. But perfectly normal women can have a much earlier menopause, with periods stopping before the age of forty-five. The menopause can be induced artificially by radiation or removal of the ovaries.

The list of symptoms associated with the menopause is lengthy and many women are pressured into taking Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) without being made aware of the possible side effects or acknowledging that there are in a lot of cases real alternatives.

I know that when I was faced with a premature menopause the first thing I wanted was the answer to some very simple questions.

  1. What are the symptoms of the menopause
  2. Should I take HRT
  3. Is there an alternative to HRT

Main symptoms of the menopause.

The following are some of the symptoms of the menopause:

  • Hot flushes
  • Night sweats
  • Mood swings
  • Palpitations
  • Headaches
  • Insomnia
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Long term effects
    Osteoporosis
    Heart disease

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Should you say no to HRT

The decision to take HRT should not be taken lightly. You need to take advice from your doctor or consultant and read extensively on the  subject. (See Reference Material below)

Possible side effects of HRT include:

  • Increased risk of breast cancer
  • Endometrial (womb) cancer
  • Blood clots
  • Undesirable weight gain/loss
  • Breast tenderness / enlargement
  • Bloating
  • Mental depression
  • Elevated blood pressure
  • Skin rashes
  • Hair loss
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Vaginal thrush
  • Jaundice
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Cystitis-like syndrome

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 The Natural alternative to HRT

Nature's Sunshine Products has a number of natural products that may have beneficial results.

Remember to:

  • Eat more fresh vegetables and fruit.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Avoid saturated fats.
  • Drink at least two litres of water every day.
  • Reduce your coffee consumption.

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Reference Material

Menopause HRT and its natural alternatives, Dr Sandra Cabot MD, Publisher: Women's Health Advisory Service, 1997, ISBN 0-646-03-768-4

Natural Alternatives to HRT, Marilyn Glenville, Publisher: Kyle Cathie Ltd, 1997, ISBN 1-85626-254-5

Passage to Power, Leslie Kenton, Publisher: Vermilion, 1998, ISBN 0-09-181594-0

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Information on this site is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. You should read carefully all product packaging. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.

As a precaution pregnant or lactating women should consult their health care provider before taking any herbal or nutritional supplements.

Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated  and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.