Health

Let's talk about everything health - mental, physical, and all the different journeys our bodies go through from menstruation, pregnancy, menopause and everything in between.

Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause when a woman’s body begins to produce less estrogen, leading to hormonal fluctuations. It typically starts in a woman’s 40s but can begin earlier for some. This phase can last anywhere from a few months to over a decade before menopause officially begins (which is when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period).

Common Symptoms of Perimenopause:

🔸 Irregular periods – cycles may be shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter
🔸 Hot flashes & night sweats – sudden waves of heat and sweating
🔸 Mood changes – irritability, anxiety, or depression
🔸 Sleep disturbances – trouble falling or staying asleep
🔸 Fatigue – feeling constantly tired or drained
🔸 Brain fog – memory lapses and difficulty concentrating
🔸 Vaginal dryness – leading to discomfort or pain during intimacy
🔸 Weight changes – especially around the midsection
🔸 Changes in libido – increased or decreased sexual desire

This phase is a natural part of aging, but the symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes, hormone therapy (if needed), and holistic approaches like exercise, nutrition, meditation, and self-care.

Menopause is the natural biological stage when a woman permanently stops having menstrual periods, marking the end of her reproductive years. It is officially diagnosed when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period and typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, though it can happen earlier or later.

What Causes Menopause?

Menopause happens as the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate menstruation and reproduction. It can occur naturally or be triggered by medical treatments such as surgical removal of the ovaries, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Common Symptoms of Menopause:

🔥 Hot flashes & night sweats – sudden feelings of intense heat
💤 Sleep disturbances – insomnia or waking up frequently at night
😡 Mood swings & irritability – due to hormonal fluctuations
🧠 Brain fog & memory lapses – difficulty concentrating or forgetfulness
❤️ Heart palpitations – a racing or irregular heartbeat
👙 Vaginal dryness & discomfort – leading to painful intercourse
💪 Bone loss & joint pain – increasing the risk of osteoporosis
⚖️ Weight gain & metabolism changes – especially around the midsection

Postmenopause:

After menopause, a woman enters postmenopause, where symptoms may ease, but the risk of conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease increases due to lower estrogen levels.

Managing Menopause:

🌿 Lifestyle changes – A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management
💊 Hormone Therapy (HRT) – For symptom relief (not suitable for everyone)
🧘‍♀️ Holistic approaches – Meditation, yoga, acupuncture, and herbal supplements
👩‍⚕️ Medical support – Regular check-ups to monitor bone and heart health

Menopause is a natural transition, not a disease—just a new chapter of life! 💜