In particular, how will *I* recognise it – as I had a hysterectomy last year, I no longer get the monthly visit from Auntie Flo!
Thinking about Menopause
I did however keep my ovaries, which means that I’m still cycling, something I can definitely confirm by the menstrual migraine which arrives every month without fail :-(.
However, there are likely to be plenty of other signs to indicate my hormones are shutting up shop …
Symptoms of Menopause
I’ve heard all sorts of things – dry skin, weight gain, the need for a personal lubricant for intimacy, moodiness, new facial hair, lack of libido, memory lapses, achy joints, hair loss or thinning, and disturbed sleep patterns. Not having a Mum to chat to about these sort of things, and being the oldest of three sisters, means that I am heading into uncharted territory.
I’m told it’s a bit like periods – every woman’s experience is different. Just like some women experience debilitating cramps, crazy cravings, belly bloat and heavy headaches during their period (actually, I got all of them!), others will not – and it’s the same for menopause. I think it’s only fair that seeing as my reproductive years gave me such a hard time, I should find it smooth sailing through menopause, right?!
So far, the only sign I’ve had that “the change of life” may indeed be on my horizon, is occasional hot flushes and night sweats.
Is It Hot In Here, Or Is It Just Me?
The flushes and sweats associated with menopause are due to the body temperature regulation unit (the hypothalamus) confusing warm with cold, cold with hot, and trying to compensate for its sudden inability to correctly sense if we are warm enough or not. Our bodies are pretty well equipped to counter act themselves, though the resulting perspiration is not always welcome.
Here are some of my top tips to make life easier when you’re feeling hot and sweaty … whether it’s from menopause, or the fast approaching Summer season!
Do you have any hot tips (pardon the pun!) for me on dealing with menopause?!