What is menopause?

Menopause is the final menstrual period a woman will experience. It’s a natural event that is also known as the “the change of life” as it marks the end of a women’s reproductive years. Most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55 and experience symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings, itchiness and weight gain.

Menopause is not something to be afraid of. It is a normal bodily process that signifies the start of a new chapter. At Vital Chi Wellness we can help you manage your symptoms, so you can continue living a healthy life.

What is premature and early menopause?

If you experience menopause before the age of 40 this is known as premature menopause or early menopause if it is between 40 – 45 years old.

The main causes of this early onset are decreased ovarian function due to smoking, genetic or autoimmune conditions, cancer treatments (chemotherapy and radiation) or the complete surgical removal of the ovaries.

If you experience premature or early menopause you will encounter the same symptoms as if you had reached menopause later in life.

What causes menopause?

Women are born with around a million eggs in each ovary. The ovaries make estrogen and progesterone hormones that control menstruation and reproduction. When a woman goes through menopause the production of these hormones begins to slow down. This journey happens in three stages:

  1. Perimenopause: This encompasses the years leading up to menopause. During this time is when your hormone production will slow down. This will lead to lighter and less frequent periods. The symptoms of menopause will begin to show including hot flashes and headaches.
  2. Menopause: Eventually the hormones will slow to a point that eggs are no longer released. You will know you have reached menopause if you have not had a period for 12 months.
  3. Post menopause: These are the years that follow menopause. The symptoms you have experienced will decrease and you will no longer experience menstruation.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

It is common for symptoms to occur before menstruation stops. Your hormones will fluctuate which can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms.

Physical

  • Hot flushes
  • Aches and pains
  • Night sweats
  • Headaches
  • Itchiness
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Weight gain

Emotional

  • Mood swings
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Less interest in sex
  • Forgetfulness
  • Anxiety

How is menopause treated?

Menopause is a natural journey that every woman will go through. Therefore, at Melbourne Wellness we believe in treating the symptoms of menopause naturally.

Our experienced naturopaths are here to guide and support you through this important life stage. We offer specialised treatment plans that combine lifestyle and dietary changes to help manage the symptoms of menopause and improve your overall health.

Physical activity is important for general wellbeing and particularly, bone strength. We will discuss exercise options with you, in combination with meditation to relax your mind and relieve symptoms such as hot flushes.

This program will be aided by natural medicine. Herbs will be incorporated into your diet to calm your muscles and help you get a good night’s rest.

We want to work in harmony with your body, so you can focus on and embrace the exciting next stage of your life.

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